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This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and K. Joyner. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
I Don’t Think So!
Written by K. Joyner Illustrated by Asha Butler Editing and Art Direction by Monica Violet Joy Ages: 3-8 | 34 Pages Publisher: BookBaby (2025) | ISBN: 979-8218567026 Publisher’s Book Summary: Mia is a precocious kindergartner with two loving parents. She lives in a wonderful and colorful city, surrounded by curious characters. Mia seems to have it all. Unfortunately, try as she might, little Mia is terribly shy and it can be a real hindrance for any child to find the confidence they need to tackle new, scary challenges, like school! Luckily for Mia, she has her best friend Cody, and inspiring teacher, Ms. Doodlebee to help bring her out of her shell, and show her that the world is a wonderful, inspiring place, brimming with adventure, and fun! Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for I Don't Think So!?
I struggled terribly with shyness as a child, including not being able to speak to anyone but my teachers and close family members until I was about seven years old. I also could not eat in front of non-family members during that time, resulting in me skipping lunch at school each day. I recall the pivotal impact my loving teachers and a few friends I met along the way had on my ability to eventually overcome my severe shyness and learn to enjoy the world around me. What was your writing process like for this book? While writing this book, I reflected on my past personal struggles with shyness. My goal was to slowly unfold a beautiful and compassionate story that depicts the power of friendship, but also helps children realize that the world is an imaginative place and not so scary if they can garner the courage to try new things. It was important to write it in a manner that could be understood by very young children (ages 3-8). As a result, I asked quite a few individuals to read the book and provide feedback. Before releasing this book, I felt strongly that it would be important to have an expert in the field of child therapy review the book and provide feedback. As a result, the book has been objectively reviewed and endorsed by a licensed child therapist whom I met through a mutual friend. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? My favorite part about writing books for kids is witnessing their reaction when they read the story or it is read to them. I received a few videos from Moms who felt compelled to share their child’s reaction after reading this story. The children in the videos understand the message, love the illustrations and most importantly, effortlessly glean how their learnings from the book will help them navigate their personal struggles with shyness and confidence. This is the most rewarding part for me. What are you working on now? This book will be part of a series titled, The Doodlebees, featuring stories of a few of Mia’s classmates in Ms. Doodlebee’s kindergarten class. The purpose of the series is to help young children develop confidence and positive social skills. I completed the second book in the series, featuring Cody, who can often be a bit overly confident. Illustrations are the next step. I plan to work on the next two books in the series this year as well. I have also completed two Young Adult novels and adapted one to a screenplay. I am currently pursuing representation for these. What is your favorite book? I have many favorite books across various genres, but one of my favorite children’s books is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. It is a haunting story that resonates with both children and adults about selflessness, which is a common theme in my books. Who has been instrumental in your book writing process? My illustrator, Asha Butler’s depiction of the characters in the story is brilliant. She truly brings Mia, Cody, Ms. Doodlebee and the other characters to life in a fun and whimsical manner. I must also recognize Monica Violet Joy, the acclaimed children's media and entertainment veteran who edited the book and directed the artwork. She is responsible for the beautiful settings in the story, including the colorful, clever and detailed indoor and outdoor scenes. Giveaway
Enter for a chance to win one of five signed hardcover copies of I Don’t Think So! One lucky grand prize winner will receive a signed copy and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card.
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