San Francisco Book Review on “The Joy Thief” by Sean McCallum

The Joy Thief is an inspirational tale about overcoming one’s fears. The author, a firefighter and crisis intervention specialist, tells a story about a girl who becomes traumatized by a seemingly ordinary experience. The terrifying day began with a spider jumping on the little girl’s face. When the girl reacted (by screaming), her mother arrived in a huff, insisting that she keep down the noise. When she left, the door slammed behind her, causing the girl to feel an overwhelming amount of fear. This social-emotional rhyming story proves children can experience events that alter their way of thinking.

The girl’s “joy thief” (which is visually represented as a spider) follows her wherever she goes, reminding her of the fear she felt that day and preventing her from experiencing heightened feelings of happiness. She is finally able to talk with her mother and opens up about how she’s felt controlled by her fear lately. Adults may not realize that a certain event can contribute to a heightened state of panic that can continue to grow, making it difficult to participate in daily activities. The author encourages open communication by providing a guide for adults to stay present and open with children.

Read the whole review here

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Author Sean McCallum
Star Count 5/5
Format Trade
Page Count 32 pages
Publisher Loving Healing Press
Publish Date 01-Apr-2022
ISBN 9781615996667
Bookshop.org Buy this Book
Issue June 2022
Category Children’s
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Parker and Bandit [PB]

SKU 979-8-89656-018-0
$17.95
1
Product Details
UPC: 979-8-89656-018-0
Brand: Loving Healing Press
Binding: Paperback
Grade Level or Age Range: 5 - 8 yrs
Audiobook: Audible, iTunes
Edition: 1st
Author: Jennifer Bonn
Illustrator: Bijan Sammadar
Pages: 24
Publication Date: 02/01/2025

Parker and Bandit tells the story of a bond that exists between a boy and his dog. Parker and Bandit were born a week apart, and they had a connection from the start. When Parker was a baby, Bandit hovered near him to protect him, and, as Parker grew, he and Bandit were constant companions. This story underscores the connection and the power of an animal in our lives.

"I enjoyed the narrative of this beautiful story. It easily carried me through. It is a perfect bedtime story. The author conveys the important connection between a child and an animal." -- Kimberly Tucker, aircraft mechanic

"This is a touching story about a little boy and his dog! Parker and Bandit, a border collie, form a strong bond from birth and are the best of friends. This book gives children a glimpse of how animals can be soothing companions." -- Kathy Bridges, librarian

"Another gem from Jennifer Bonn! This time, she shares the unique bond between her young grandson, Parker, and their border collie, Bandit. With charming insight, she reveals the caring relationship that develops from birth between boy and puppy as they explore their world together. Absolutely another must read for anyone who has ever loved a child!" -- Donna Wood, English teacher

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Parker and Bandit [PB]

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