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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The Main Line Mutt [HC]

SKU 978-1-61599-791-6
$28.95
Maggie Dog Learns Her True Worth
1
Product Details
UPC: 978-1-61599-790-9
Brand: Loving Healing Press
Binding: Hardcover
Audiobook: Audible, iTunes
Edition: 1st
Author: Nancy M. Schwarz
Pages: 24
Publication Date: 02/01/2024

The Main Line Mutt is a Heartwarming Tale of a Mixed Breed Dog Named Maggie

"When Maggie moves to a new upscale neighborhood, she encounters the snobbishness of the purebred dogs, who all look down on her because she is a mutt. Maggie attends a big dog show but can't enter as a contestant because she isn't purebred. Through her warmth and charm, she manages to win the hearts of the judges, and a blue ribbon for 'best of all breeds.' Afterwards, all the other dogs become much friendlier. The colorful illustrations capture the feeling of the text, with attention to the expressions of the dogs and people. A touching story about what really matters in life." -- Douglas Florian, author/illustrator of Poetrees

"The Main Line Mutt is a delightful story with a heartwarming message. Children will enjoy the storyline and the illustrations and adults will enjoy the humor and the lesson of the story. Talented writers, Nancy and Michael Schwartz, bring their love of dogs, combined with their compassion, to create an inspiring tale." -- Susie Garber, writer and literacy coach, grades 1-12

"The Main Line Mutt is a wonderful story about accepting differences. Learning to be confident in oneself and kind to others are qualities that should be nurtured in this increasingly complex world. This book presents a wonderful opportunity to share just how special it is to be loved and appreciated for all one is and all that one can become." -- Liz Mennig, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction (retired)

"What a wonderful book! I love how it celebrates Maggie's uniqueness! It's important to remember that being different is OK and to respect oneself, as well as others. Self-confidence comes from self-love and feelings of worth and value. " -- Noriko Lovasz, B.A., M.S.M., receptionist at Great Valley Pet Hotel

"The Main Line Mutt will be enjoyed by both animal lovers and those who do not have pets. The book provides an opportunity for young children to think about friendships, rejection and the effects of moving from their home. It is an excellent jumping-off point for discussion about these topics." -- Dr. Elizabeth Girshick, Licensed Psychologist

From Loving Healing Press www.LHPress.com

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