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“My Name Is Mountain” was born a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book One of Kelly Anne Manuel‛s “My Name Is” Series. The story invites the Child into Nature where a unique adventure is experienced. The Child and the main character, Mountain, get to know each other on the pages of this story. The Child‛s observations are voiced and received while Mountain does the same. “My Name Is Mountain” begins with a Child who is curious about what they are encountering. It becomes clear that the Child has questions regarding the information being shared. The Child has the opportunity to use their words in a clear and concise manner. The Child will learn to ask questions and see what fun adventures await when they engage actively in communication. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The Child will notice that Mountain knows who it is at its core. The author intends for the story to spark open dialogue and conversation about whether or not the terms utilized to describe inner and outer worlds match. This book is a tool in a Caregiver‛s toolbox to assist with the formation of healthy communication skills. The Child who reads this book will recognize that respecting Nature and all its gifts is as important as respecting their own inner nature. -
In this story the Child is invited on a journey into the galaxy where wonders never cease. This is a galaxy where love, acceptance, and unconditional support reign supreme. “THE FAMILY STAR” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that they are always in good company as Stars are personified in a unique and brilliant way. It is a fascinating opportunity to look upon a galaxy of stars in their seemingly infinite number and feel comforted by their resilience and tenacity. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The Child’s imagination will be ignited with possibilities as bright as the stars themselves. The message is that if a star can shine so bright and survive so many elements so too can they. Children naturally look outside of themselves for love and approval. Why not explore the author’s theory about how Nature is a vital and prominent piece of this puzzle? Additionally, introducing the stars and the galaxy in this sing song way has the added benefit of Science discourse coupled with entertainment. It is in Early Childhood that self esteem and identity are under major construction. “THE FAMILY STAR” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that we are united with Nature and Science is such an important message that the author feels Children’s literature must reflect. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with as many lessons as there are stars. -
“My Name Is Light” is the newly minted Book Two of Kelly Anne Manuel’s “My Name Is” Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey into Nature where a discovery is made with the help of the Animal Kingdom and a joyful celebration results. The Child is curious and Nature, as in real life, does not disappoint. “My Name Is Light” begins with a Child in the great outdoors who notices something bright in their vision. The Child takes the opportunity to interact with a feeling of “light.” The Animal Kingdom animates this exciting, fun, and playful adventure. The Child will learn to ask questions and see what fun adventures await when they engage actively in communication. The Child will learn that Nature has so many wonders to explore. These wonders are available and ready for action once the Child actively engages with communication that relates directly to their own observations. Children will experience a light hearted and fun story that will ignite their own imaginations. Why not explore the author’s theory Childhood is a time of playful fascination as well as learning? This fascination can be enhanced by literature that allows for pretend conversations. It is in Early Childhood that we learn how to connect and interact with others. “My Name Is Light” offers a path to these connections that allows for observation, self reflection, and play. Play is so important at this age and the Child who reads this books will be rewarded with the joy of witnessing play at its best. -
"The World Small” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Two of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited to experience their sleep time ritual with the comfort of Nature nearby. It is a remarkable combination of relaxation yet imagination igniting prose. “The World Small” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that no matter where they are on the planet, Nature has common elements. She is always available for discovery and wonder. In the story Nature is personified as a unifying presence to our planet. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The story identifies common elements such as a the sky, sun, clouds and rainbows, to create continuity for any number of environments. Children who begin their sleep time ritual with “The World Small” will benefit from the rhythm of the words and the message they send. The message that how Children play and enjoy the world around them no matter their geographic location is designed to awaken curiosity and stimulate conversations on the topic. It is in Early Childhood that a Child’s view of the world and their place in it is under major construction. “The World Small” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that we are united as a global community with elements of Nature and human nature is an important message that the author feels Children’s literature must reflect. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with unlimited travels into imagination and how they would like to play once they arrive there. -
“THE BEAR TEDDY” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Three of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to the Arctic where the Animal Kingdom there enhances the adventure. The Child will naturally engage with the immediate introduction to the main character, Teddy. “The Bear Teddy” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will observe that there is inspiration to be found in the natural world around them and in far off distant lands. It is a happy way to see the Arctic animals live cohesively while providing support for each other. The story ends with an example of sharing that is heart warming and practical. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrated animals in this story are personifi ed to provide an example of cooperation, encouragement, and friendship. The Child’s imagination will be ignited with possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally curious about different environments and far off places. In this story the author encourages the Child to actively engage in fl exing their imagination muscle. The narrator presents examples of how mutual support can allow relationships to fl ourish. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Bear Teddy” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that Nature and the Animal Kingdom are available to model positive and optimistic interactions is fully embraced here. The Children who read this book will be rewarded with an adventure into the Arctic where cohesion rules the day. -
"The Catcher Dream" was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Five of Kelly Anne Manuel's Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where self empowerment is modeled through an interaction between the narrator and a fictionalized character known as the Catcher Dream. This is a story where the narrator models strength and courage once an uncomfortable matter is identified through self assessment. "The Catcher Dream” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that they are individuals in charge of safeguarding their physical and emotional space. It is an example of how imperative it is to process the thoughts, feelings, and emotions that uncomfortable matters provoke. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The Child will observe illustrations that are in alignment with the serious tone of the story. It is important that the art match the conflict presented and resolved by the narrator. The narrator shows the Child that once a boundary was encroached upon, speaking up in a firm manner provided a solution. Children learn how to handle conflict by observation. It is important for their literature to address a balanced yet firm approach to conflict resolution. The author intends this book to be a launch pad for discussions about personal space, respect, and boundaries. These are all areas that deserve to be explored frequently as the Child ages. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. "The Catcher Dream" is a tool in a Caregiver's toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that self empowerment is formed during these early years is embraced by the author. The Children who read this book will be rewarded with a valuable lesson that facing fears results in the positive trait of resilience. -
“The Boots Rain” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book One of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Rainbow’s End Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to experience an entirely new event that the narrator is so eager to share. The narrator describes this fictitious occurrence with such wonder, amazement and vigor, that the Child will naturally join in for the fun. “The Boots Rain” offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey to the tail of a rainbow’s end and see what fantastical adventures await. In “The Boots Rain” the Child will experience a fun and unique way to look at rain in a different light. The story is meant to be a challenge to the regular idea of rain boots and the author hopes to spark curiosity and discussion. The simple words lead the way to an adventure where considering a different approach to a common event in nature is expected. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. Why not join the narrator on a discovery mission to find out exactly what a Boots Rain is? In this story the author invites the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscle. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Boots Rain” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that every boot that falls in the Boots Rain is unique, individual and one of a kind, is an important message that the author wants to relay. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a fantastical insight to what magical events occur at the tail of a rainbow’s end. -
“The Tail Fairy” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Four of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a humorous journey to experience an entirely fresh and new approach to the traditional fairy tale. The Animal Kingdom is pivotal in demonstrating diverse layers of support to aid in Child Development. “The Tail Fairy” offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey with the narrator who discovers an enchanting member of the fairy world. The fairy world is meant to be playful, imaginative, and fun. This book supports that theme throughout as a new type of fairy is introduced to the Child. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. Why not join the narrator on a discovery mission to find out exactly what a Tail Fairy is? In this story the author encourages the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscle while visually stimulated with furry Animal Kingdom members. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Tail Fairy” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that there are layers of support for Children that are different than what traditional literature provides is important to the author. The Child who reads this book will discover that not all fairy tales have magical Tail Fairies. -
“The Case Suit” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Seven of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where packing an imaginary suit case brings new meaning and adventure. It is a game for the Child to engage in with “Pretend” as a character who is always available to join them. “The Case Suit” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will be invited to investigate what the narrator chooses to pack and travel with to any destination imagination can create. The destination is open ended so the Child will participate with curiosity and play. The Child has unlimited freedom to decide, dream, and explore, while traveling along with the narrator. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. There is a mix of practical and fantastical elements to visually stimulate curiosity. This active engagement in imagination results in a world rich with creativity for the Child. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides a balance of structure and a springboard for the Child to be a part of the action. It is a game that can be played at any place and time for entertainment and discussion. This is a story that the author hopes will be enjoyed with humor while considering everything the Child can dream of to pack in their own case suit. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Case Suit” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that practicality can be set aside while ushering in a world of imagination is a theme the author embraces. The Child who reads this book will benefit from the freedom to dream up any destination with all their Case Suit can hold and more. -
“My Name Is Art Fine” is the newly minted Book Three of Kelly Anne Manuel’s “My Name Is” Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where honest discourse and communication result in clarity. The Child and the main character, Art Fine, get to know each other on the pages of story. The Child’s observations are voiced and received while Art Fine does the same. “My Name Is Art Fine” begins with a Child who is curious about who they are encountering. It becomes clear that the Child has questions regarding the information being shared. The Child has the opportunity to use their words in a clear and concise manner. The Child will learn to ask questions and see what fun adventures await when they engage actively in communication. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The Child will notice that the use of the word “fine,” may not be a true representation of what is actually occurring. The story navigates the wide breadth that may exist between what words are used to accurately describe emotions, thoughts, and feelings. Children will experience a light hearted and fun story that will ignite their own imaginations. Why not explore the author’s theory that Childhood is a time to create a rich vocabulary that aligns correctly with thought and purpose? The author intends for the story to spark open dialogue and conversation about whether or not the terms utilized to describe inner and outer worlds match. It is in Early Childhood that we learn how to connect and interact with others. “My Name Is Art Fine” offers a path to these connections that allows for observation, self reflection, and humor. These are excellent tools for a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with the healthy formation of these skills. The Children who read this book will be rewarded with a fresh view of the word “fine” in all its finery. -
“The Library Local” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Seven of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a fantastical journey to their local library. The adventure that the library offers is brought to life in this story. Magic, creativity, and imagination, are a few elements embodied by libraries and they are celebrated in this book. “The Library Local” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will be invited to investigate the world that libraries create beyond the normal confines of brick and mortar. The narrator engages the Child by describing their own journey and how the discovery of the library brings such joy. The Child has unlimited freedom to decide, dream, and explore, while traveling along with the narrator. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The journey to the library and the library itself are presented without restrictions. It is an opportunity to show the gifts of the library to the curious mind of the Child in a new and unique way. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides both. The author hopes it will serve as motivation for library visits that support Child Development in numerous arenas. The library is a gift available to all Children who benefit from all the worlds it encompasses in its vast universe. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Library Local” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that libraries are places of wonder and discovery is a theme the author embraces. The Child who reads this book will be entertained and encouraged to have their own adventures in a Library Local. -
“THE AWAY CAST” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Nine of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where the narrator must find courage to take on a new challenge. The Animal Kingdom characters of Bravery and Bolder are called in to assist and model strength for the Child. “The Away Cast” plays on the meanings of the word “cast.” It is used as a term for the cast of a play and also to examine the idea of the fear related to being “cast out.” The story unfolds with the narrator auditioning for a play even though it creates some anxiety and discomfort. The message is that trying new things, even if there is discomfort, can be beneficial in a myriad of ways. The challenge itself is becoming part of a courage cast, so being “cast out” is irrelevant. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The story is supported with scenes from the Animal Kingdom that will spark both imagination and courage to try new things. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides both. The depth of the message is measured by where the Child is on their own growth journey so it is always age appropriate. The author hopes it will serve as a launch pad for discussions about courage, determination, bravery, and relying on oneself for a barometer of inclusiveness. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Away Cast” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that being uncomfortable while tackling new and different experiences is normalized. Since it is common the author feels it is important to address it in Children’s Literature.
