The Books

Each book is written for read-aloud joy and real-life reassurance — at bedtime, in classrooms, and anywhere kids need a little encouragement (and a few smiles along the way).

Cover of Penelope the Porcupine by Edith Buie

Penelope the Porcupine

A tender, gently funny story about making friends when you feel a little "too prickly."

Penelope wants friends more than anything — but her pokey quills make closeness tricky. She even tries covering the sharp points with marshmallows, though that doesn't work the way she hoped. With patience, creativity, and kind-hearted friends, Penelope learns that she doesn't need to change who she is — and that friendship doesn't have to look the same for everyone. This warm story uses humor and gentle problem-solving to show children how to respect differences, set comfortable boundaries, and still belong.

Ages 3–7 Friendship Self-acceptance Boundaries Inclusion

Great for: classrooms, counselors, and bedtime.

Cover of The Very Improper Tea Party by Edith Buie

The Very Improper Tea Party

A joyful, humorous celebration of being yourself — where messy, loud, and different friends belong.

When a group of messy animals is excluded from a very proper tea party, Petal the Pig is not having it. She organizes The Very Improper Tea Party — a place where everyone is welcome just as they are. Amid spills, lopsided cakes, and muddy hoof prints on the table, the animals discover that true friendship isn't about manners or perfection — it's about kindness, welcome, and making room for everyone. A playful reminder for children (and adults) that differences can be the very thing that makes a gathering wonderful.

Ages 3–7 Belonging Acceptance Flexibility Compassion

Great for: story time, SEL lessons, and family reading.

Cover of Winston the Very Worried Sloth by Edith Buie

Winston the Very Worried Sloth

A sweet, gently funny story about a big worrier learning to leave his branch and try the day.

Winston worries about everything — even on bright, sunny days. When his friends invite him on an outing, his mind fills with "what-ifs" and his paws cling tightly to his favorite branch: "Let me stay in my tree — that's the best place for me." Through patient friendship, small steps, and a few humorous surprises, Winston learns that worries often tell the loudest stories — but they aren't always the truest ones. Not one of his worries comes true, and he even discovers a new way of thinking that makes them much more manageable. A comforting read for children who feel anxious, cautious, or easily overwhelmed.

Ages 3–7 Managing Worries Courage Perspective Trying New Things

Great for: bedtime reassurance, counselors, and the classroom calm corner.

Cover of Scarlett and the Monster in Her Room by Edith Buie

Scarlett and the Monster in Her Room

A gentle, imaginative bedtime story about a scary monster who isn't what he seems.

It's bedtime for Scarlett. The stories have been read, the water bottle is filled, and the cuddles are done — but when the lights go out, her imagination goes to work. She's certain there's a monster under her bed: large and hairy, with red eyes and lots of sharp claws. Then the monster jumps onto her bed... and it's not at all what she expected. Shaking with fright itself, this monster may just become a new friend. A gentle, imaginative story that helps children see that fear can shrink when we take a closer look.

Ages 3–7 Fear Courage Imagination Rethinking Fears

Great for: bedtime, children with nighttime fears, and family reading.

"My hope is that each book becomes a cozy favorite on your shelf — something children want to hear again and again, and something grown-ups are glad to read."

Bringing a book to your classroom or library?

Free discussion questions and printable activities are on the way — and I'd love to hear from you.