The Wonder Authors

Suzanne Preston Blier

Suzanne P. Blier Ph.D. is a tenured professor at Harvard (in the Art History and African, African American Studies Departments) and has written many award-winning books in her field – both trade publications and more specialized works. Most recently, she published Picasso’s Demoiselles: The Untold Origins of a Modern Masterpiece, winner of the 2020 Robert Motherwell Award and is now completing a new academic work, 1325: How Medieval Africa Made the World Modern (Yale).

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Author

Joe Brocato

Joe Brocato is a senior partner with Gozdecki, Del Giudice, Americus, Farkas & Brocato LLP, a prominent Chicago law firm. A serial entrepreneur and investor, he is also the Founder of Intense Coaching and Consulting Worldwide, an elite, international life coaching and business development consulting firm, Founder of Intense Artist Management, a dynamic and strategic music management company, and Co-Founder of Devotion City, Inc., which is building the creative industry’s largest accelerator. In his various personal and business endeavors, Joe has worked with some of the most prominent individuals and companies in the world. He is also the author of Happy is Cool: How to Ignite the True Happiness in You, among other books, and has reached audiences large and small, writing for Forbes.com, Huffington Post, CEO World Magazine, StrategyDriven.com, Chicago Agent Magazine, and Leadership Excellence/HR.com and speaking for a variety of organizations, including Citibank, City of Chicago, Live Nation/House of Blues, Feel Good Health Clubs, Fowler International Academy of Professional Coaching, and FRETZIN, Inc., and guesting on radio shows including AM 560 THE ANSWER and Outlaw Radio.Joe graduated from Loyola University Chicago, where he studied Economics. He received his law degree from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law and served as an editor of the Northwestern University Law Review.

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Author

Jodie A Cooper

Jodie A Cooper is a lifelong lover of animals and nature. Becoming a Yoga Instructor led to her vegetarianism and enhanced her compassion for all living things. Jodie is committed to education about animal welfare, protecting the environment, and making the world a better place. Always creative, Jodie began painting and writing in recent years. This is her second book, an update to the original version. She resides with her husband in Florida. Visit Jodie at www.jodieacooper.com.

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Author

Liberty DeVitto

Author and legendary musician, Liberty DeVitto, has been honored to grace stages with legendary artists that include Billy Joel, Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks, Meatloaf, and many more.
Author

Manda Kalimian

Manda Kalimian is an award-winning author, speaker, advocate, and founder, who has spent over two decades spearheading science-backed education and research to create legislation to effectuate rewilding initiatives for horses and the environment. As the founder and president of the CANA Foundation, her work to help to rewild America’s wild horses and lands has been championed by top magazines, women’s organizations, politicians, and distinguished journalists.

Buy Born to Rewild now   |   Visit Born To Rewild   |   Visit Manda’s Foundation

Author

Judith Kristen

Judith Kristen (1948 – ) Judith was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey and raised in Northeast Philadelphia. Life was not always easy, and, after some very rough starts and stops, Judy became a best-selling author, animal rescuer, international humane education teacher, and a very happy Citizen of the World. Buy the latest book.

Links: :Click below for Judith's books and social channels

Author

Camille Licate

An Ashtabula, Ohio native, Camille Licate’s three favorite things are dogs in coats, airport reunions, and vegan donuts. She is the creator, writer and host of the Kids for Positive Change television and online series, now on select PBS stations and PBS Learning Media. Camille is also the Founder of Kids for Positive Change™, a multi-media environmental education company designed to teach and inspire kids to take positive action for animals, people, and the planet.An animal advocate, Camille launched the “Wake Up with Bree” program to educate kids and adults about the plight of farm animals, with a focus on roosters. With Bree, the rescue rooster, by her side, Camille encourages kids and adults to adopt a “Bree Kind Lifestyle” which includes eating a plant-based diet and using animal-friendly and eco-friendly products. www.WakeUpwithBree.com

Links: :Click below for Camille's book and social channels

Author

Dr. Angie McCartney

Angela Lucia McCartney was born in Liverpool UK in November of 1929. She married Jim McCartney in November 1962 and they spent 12 loving years together, with Angie and daughter Ruth at his side when he passed over to the great tea dance in the sky in March of 1976. Angie has lived through WW2, widowhood (twice), the 2020 Pandemic, and many crazy times in the past, including celebrating the announcement of #1 chart hits with friend and frequent house-guest John Lennon over breakfast (and tea) at Rembrandt, their Liverpool home in the ’60s. Ticket to Ride is a travel guide to show you about the haunts of the boys in their prime.

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Links:Click below for Angie's book and social channels

Author

Simon Mills

Simon Mills is a noted author of children’s literature. His works include the Sir Rhymesalot series of books and many biographical works for noted public figures as a ghostwriter. Simon’s work with children’s titles is focused on communicating in rhyming verse. As a professional musician, songwriter, and commercial music producer, he developed a style and voice that engages young minds with intriguing rhythm, rhyme, and meter along with exciting and emotive themes and twists.

https://www.simonmills.com

Email:s@simonmills.com

Links:Click below for latest books and social channels

Author

Dr. Ross MacPhee

Ross D. MacPhee Ph.D. Prior to joining the American Museum of Natural History as Curator, Division of Vertebrate Zoology-/Mammalogy in 1988, Dr. MacPhee was an Associate Professor of Anatomy in the Duke University Medical Center. He has also taught at Columbia, New York University, and several universities in Canada. Dr. MacPhee’s research interests span the evolutionary history of mammals, island biogeography, and the biology and causation of extinction. He has led or participated in more than 50 scientific expeditions in 15 countries, including both polar regions. Recent fieldwork venues include Yukon, James Ross Group (West Antarctica), and Argentina.

Works:See Dr. MacPhee's Imagine and Wonder Titles

Illustrator

Mario Menjivar

Mario Menjivar began his artistic career in the animation industry for 22 years, most of them as part of the Walt Disney Feature Animation studio. His work is featured in eight of the studio’s films, among them: “Lion King,” ” Pocahantas,” “Mulan,” “Hercules,” “Tarzan,” and “Treasure Planet.” His work can also be seen in the Warner Bros. film “Looney Tunes: Back in Action.”

Mario reconnected to his illustration roots as an Art Director and character designer for several independent animation studios as well as designing merchandise for Disney and comic covers for DC comics.

While teaching animation and anatomy at The School of Visual Arts, he  began illustrating and co-publishing picture books for his company, MoonBear, where he gets to combine his formal drawing skills with the principles of acting and dynamic poses that are the hallmark of animation art. And he has a great time doing it.

He lives in the Bronx, New York with his wife and son.

Links:Click below for Mario's book and social channels

Author

Carl Moellenberg

Carl Moellenberg grew up in Ohio and then transitioned to the fast-paced world of NYC financial institutions for a period of 18 years. A combination of passion for music and serious health issues caused him to jettison that life for producing theater on Broadway. He now has produced over 70 shows and has won 12 Tony awards and that was the most joyful decision of his life. Carl added film producing somewhat later and is now Chairman of Dominion Pictures. That path was accomplished despite multiple threats He now has produced over 70 shows and has won 12 Tony awards and that was the most joyful decision of his life. Carl added film producing somewhat later and is now Chairman of Dominion Pictures. That path was accomplished despite multiple threats to his survival which were warded off by newfound healing practices, spirituality and love.

Links::Click below for Carl's personal website, book, and social channels

Author

Oliver Pursche

Oliver Pursche is a recognized thought-leader with nearly 30 years of Financial Advisory experience. As a Sr. Vice President, Advisor for Wealthspire Advisors working out of their New York City and Westport CT offices, Oliver works with affluent families and business owners overseeing and helping them grow their wealth. His opinions, views and guidance on saving and investing are frequently requested by CNBC, Bloomberg Television and Radio, Kiplinger’s and Forbes Magazines as well as many other national and world-wide news outlets such as Reuters and Dow Jones. In his role as an advisor, Oliver has been named “amongst the best of the best” by Barron’s Magazine six years in a row (2008 – 2014) as part of their “Top Independent Advisor” annual ranking. As an Author and Educator, Oliver has been a keynote speaker at both industry and private events and has been featured in hundreds of investment seminars including events sponsored by AAII (American Association of Independent Investors), Vanguard and Fidelity.

Author

Rosemary Rivera

Rosemary Rivera is a self-described Nuyorican nerd who grew up with her nose in a book while navigating the socioeconomic neglect happening in The Bronx. Her favorite pastimes were listening to music, dancing, and getting caught hiding funny books inside her textbooks during math class. She began writing as a kid, first for fun, then later to bring attention to the inequalities in education that affected her community. It paved the way for a creative life that began as a magazine writer and editor for an array of subjects, ranging from personal essays to Latinx entertainment. She went on to develop ideas for animated TV shows and films with her creative partner/husband, a former Disney animator. Rosemary also worked behind the scenes for TV networks Telemundo and NBC in an array of capacities, including finance. Her career as a writer took many turns, from developing scripted shows, to copywriting, and writing picture books. She also contributes to The Mighty, a wellness site that features her essays about life with a child on the autism spectrum. It’s a subject that inspired her latest project, co-created with her husband and son.

www.moonbearcc.com

Links:Click below for Rosemary's book and social channels

Author

Bruce Spizer

Bruce Spizer has written twelve critically acclaimed books about the Beatles and is internationally recognized as an expert on the Beatles. Bruce has given presentations for the Grammy Museum, the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and is also a regularly featured speaker at Beatles conventions. Bruce serves as a consultant on Beatles projects for Universal Music Group, Capitol Records, and Apple Corps, Ltd.

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Author

Diana Wilcox

The Rev. Diana Wilcox is an Episcopal priest and Rector of Christ Church in Bloomfield and Glen Ridge, New Jersey. She lives with her dog Lexi, and her two cats Katie & Lauren. This is her second book.

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Reviews

Alison Bolshoi
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent Consciousness-Raising, Inclusive Book for Girls of Any Age
Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2019
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What a wonderful, healing, timely and inclusive book has just arrived on bookshelves. In this era of Me, Too/Time’s Up, when women’s rights are in the spotlight, Diana Wilcox’s new perspective and conversation about God as female is vital in assisting every woman and girl to find her voice and feel seen and included. Indeed, why HAS God always been referred to as male?

Due to an abusive father, I struggled terribly growing up with the idea of “God the Father.” I always felt marginalized as a young Roman Catholic female, where even today priests must be men and women are in a subservient service position as nuns. This book puts an end to a lot of feelings of marginalization. The writing is thoughtful, humorous and thought provoking.

I will be buying multiple copies to give as Christmas gifts this year to anyone I know with children. Girls will love it, and boys/men will also benefit from reading it, to change their perspective and expand their consciousness.

Elizabeth Geitz
5.0 out of 5 stars
Enlightening Antidote to Patriarchal God Language/Images in Religious Traditions
Reviewed in the United States on November 22, 2019
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“Why isn’t God a girl?” How many little and grown-up girls have asked themselves and others this very question only to be met with blank stares or unsatisfactory answers. Now there’s a beautifully written and illustrated response to this age-old question in Diana Wilcox’s debut children’s book. Join Sophy on her quest as she asks diverse people this question so important to the identity of girls and boys alike. “Why isn’t God a girl?” Well, just maybe . . . God is!

For anyone concerned about the patriarchal images and language for God that still dominate most religious services, here’s your antidote. I’ve just purchased a copy for my four-year-old granddaughter and couldn’t be more pleased. Bravo Mother Diana! We are all in your debt.
Elizabeth Geitz
Author of Gender & the Nicene Creed
and Spiritual Truth in the Age of Fake News (soon to be released)

Sol Tyler
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sweet and colourful
Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2020
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Just by looking at the image present in the cover of this book, we can perceive that the imagination of anyone who reads it will be captivated.
The story is easy to understand since it is written through the straightforward language of a girl, the main character, called Sophy and it revolves around the themes of gender and diversity, which are absorbing topics and make the right effect on both, children and adults. It also asks the question females have been asking for a while. All these themes are moving and successfully touch readers.
The book is colourful and plenty of illustrations and the narrative is short and fast-paced, written in the form of a dialogue.
After reading this story, readers will notice their relationship with themselves will be deepen. I totally recommend it to children and to those who love, have or are around them. It is also a perfect book to give someone as a gift.

Kat Denning
3.0 out of 5 stars
Who Said She Isn’t?
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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This story is about Sophy, a young girl who wants to know why God is male. Along the way, she calls upon other children of different Abrahamic faiths to join her in asking the question. The question behind the story is a great one that many girls and women alike in faith seek to find an answer to, especially in the patriarchal society and faith they are born into. I thought the conclusion could have used more scripture or padding of some sort. Having grown up with a very traditionalist family, the use of “Holy Mother” instead of “Holy Father” during services would not have been accepted by many congregants. I appreciate what this book is aiming to do and like the “Who Said She Isn’t?” attitude/approach, but just felt like it needed more framing and support in a Bible and world that will continue to tell her: God is Male/Father/He/His. Even if it were just to show God as ‘in everything” alpha/omega style and humanity rather than male v female.

Mercedes Diaz
4.0 out of 5 stars
A Quick Look of Discovery and Self
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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As a child’s story, this is pretty solid, the illustrations are wonderful, and the journey is informative. What I really enjoyed about this book was that the inclusivity, the exploration of additional faiths, and the question of gender prevalence weren’t thrown at you with force. It wasn’t preachy or in your face. If you’ve spent some time around young children, these questions and this line of thinking such as, “Hey, I bet that person will know…” is very natural, which I enjoyed, and it made me feel more comfortable about opening up this book with my kid.

There was one page where I laughed because of the obvious responses, the “Whoa! Gasp!” but I know that with kids, this is a primary was to emphasize the effect, and it’s fun, which made me like the book even more. The book took a bit of a turn toward the end, but again, it seemed like a very natural progression from where the story started and the journey of learning about image and God.

Rachel K
4.0 out of 5 stars
An Interesting Book That Dives Into Faith and Self-Image
Reviewed in the United States on June 28, 2020
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This book by Diana Wilcox tells the story of a young girl named Sophy who is on a mission to better understand who God is and how she is created in the image of Him. Sophy is a bit confused because she has been taught that she is made in the image of God, but He is always referred to as Father. How can this be if she’s a girl?

As your child reads this book, they’ll not only come across captivating illustrations, but will find that the book has an age-appropriate conversation about diversity, self-image, gender, and faith. In addition to this, the book is cleverly written to also help parents dig deeper into themselves with this discussion.

At 42 pages, it’s not necessarily that long of a read making it perfect for those who want something educational yet short. It’s also written in an easy-to-read style so a child could easily enjoy it by themselves.

Evelyn
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Fantastic Including Book
Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2020
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Why Isn’t God a Girl? is written by Diana Wilcox; her job as an Episcopal priest gives her experience and adds realism to the story. It is a fast, absorbing and sweet picture book about a girl called Sophy who starts asking questions about gender and diversity.
This inclusive reading encourages listeners to take a break because it is just as important as the constant hurrying about.
It is a hilarious story for young readers who are spending time at home looking for a bedtime tale. It is clear, well narrated, really easy and quick to read. The illustrations are fantastic and captivating; the author chooses the colors very carefully to catch children’s attention.
The writing is impeccable; the characters are excellently crafted.
This is the first book written by Diana but I can’t wait to look more into what she will offer us. Undoubtedly, I will give this book five stars because it is easy to read and difficult to forget.

A Cannady
5.0 out of 5 stars
The perfect story for children of all ages who want to connect to God
Reviewed in the United States on June 23, 2020
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Why Isn’t God a Girl? by Diana Wilcox is an engaging, humorous take on a subject that can be difficult for many people, not just females, growing up and trying to see how God created us in His own image, yet we look so different from each other. Sophy is a young, curious girl who is questioning the individual traits between people’s gender and their overall diversity. In her search to understand why God is who He is and Sophy is who she is, she comes face to face with some interesting, light-hearted situations that each have a little lesson of their own to be learned. The writer is an Episcopal priest who surely has heard these questions numerous times to be able to answer them so thoroughly and engagingly for young readers. The illustrations go hand in hand with the content and all children will benefit from reading this sweet, encouraging story.

Zacian
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great modern take
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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Why isn’t God a girl?: A young girl’s journey to see the image of God in herself is a must have for any young feminists who find themselves in the church. While I myself am not religious, I was raised a strict Roman Catholic and remember it being quite a struggle. I found that the entire organization of traditional church often left girls feeling second class – and this is the exact problem this book aims to tackle. I think it is written in such a way that young kids can really benefit from this book. It offers an insight I wish I had as a kid which finds a constructive way to deal with internal struggles. The stories approach also takes an incredibly liberal perspective on the topic I would have loved to see in church. Great for those looking for an eloquent read that explains the patriarchal language of religion without simply saying “because he is.”

Carlitas
5.0 out of 5 stars
Engaging and colorful book.
Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2020
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This is a beautiful illustrative book which gives a nice message. “Why Isn’t God a Girl?: A Young girl’s journey to see the image of God In herself” was written by Diana Wilcox and it is a great read to share with children.
The plot is centered on Sophy, who is a young and curious girl. She questions herself why the Image of God is regarded as a “boy” and not as a “girl”. For this reason, she decides to ask her friends and find out about this. Sophy’s journey will show meaningful and important themes, such as religion, faith and gender.
In a nutshell, this reading is absorbing and catchy. It is short and full of beautiful drawings that engage readers, especially children. I really enjoyed it. I am giving this book 5 stars out of five because I think that it is excellent and easy to follow. I would recommend it.

Celeste L
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great family book to talk about God
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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Why Isn’t God a Girl?: A young girl’s journey to see the image of God in herself by Diana Wilcox is a children’s Christian book. The story in this book revolves around a young girl named Sophy who is determined to find out why God is not a girl. I thought that this story really had a unique twist and topic for families to explore. It certainly gives families and children something to think about. This book is a perfect book for families to read together with their children to discuss the themes of the book. It opens up a lot of space for conversation. And I think it hits a question that is commonly asked by many little girls! I loved the colors of the illustrations, and I thought they did a great job visually. I think that the children will be drawn into this book by the colorful images.

Paula Garcia
5.0 out of 5 stars
Much needed openness and inclusivity
Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2020
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“Why Isn’t God a Girl?” is the first book by Rev. Diana Wilcox, an Episcopal priest and Rector. As the title suggests, this children’s book is about a girl’s curiosity that is related to spirituality. I definitely adore how this book isn’t dogmatic, that it is inclusive and embraces the true virtue of human connectedness and love that is taught in various religions around the world. From the get-go, I appreciate that the story allows for Sophy to ask such a question and adults and children around her get equally interested to find out the answer. This is one book I would definitely keep and share with parents, teachers and kids that I work with. The illustrations by Viktoria Skakandi and Earth22 Studio are really lovely too!

Amy Williams
5.0 out of 5 stars
A fantastic children’s book about inclusiveness in the Christian faith
Reviewed in the United States on June 10, 2020
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Traditionally, the Christian faith and its many sects, factions, and beliefs have been presented as very patriarchal. Men hold more power than women, and in many cases, women are supposed to be subservient to men. This fantastic children’s book asks a very good question – why isn’t God a girl?” A young girl goes on a journey to figure out the answer. Along the way she learns that God is in everyone, and it does not matter one’s sex or faith. It’s a very inclusive approach to religion, and one that is very rarely, if ever, conveyed.

I absolutely adored this book. The illustrations were lovely, the writing was great, and the tone was very gentle and encouraging. It’s perfect for children and adults alike.

Amy Koller
4.0 out of 5 stars
Inspiring Read!
Reviewed in the United States on June 17, 2020
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“Why Isn’t God a Girl?” is a sweet and enlightening story for children. Our family opted to give this sweet story a shot after having it recommended it to us by a close family friend and mother. She insisted that it truly was a fun and inspirational read that would open the doors to a multitude of conversational opportunities with our children, and she most certainly was not wrong! “Why Isn’t God a Girl?” invokes a genuine interest and a questioning of the belief system in a way that I have not yet seen before in our kids. This book is a pleasantly sweet read that both you and your children are sure to enjoy!

Jesse Presgraves
5.0 out of 5 stars
Perfect book
Reviewed in the United States on June 11, 2020
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This book was a great adventure with perfect illustrations. It follows a young girl named Sophy who keeps hearing how she was made in the image of God, but how can that be true if God is the Father and Son? She asks a few friends from different religions if God is a girl in their religion. I think this book would be an excellent way to explain to children how they can be made in the image of God if they struggle to see it when they look in the mirror. I would recommend this to anyone who has a young child in their life who may need to hear the answer about why God isn’t a girl – “Who said she isn’t?”

Jessie H
5.0 out of 5 stars
A beautiful story for young children!
Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2020
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If you’re looking for a beautiful story with awesome illustrations, “Why Isn’t God a Girl?” is a great read to add to your child’s bookshelf. I was inspired and truly touched while reading. This book isn’t just for girls or young girls either, it truly has a powerful message for everyone saying we are all God’s children. If your child is in a Bible study, or goes to church classes I highly recommend sharing this with your pastor or parish minister. A must read for all children and their parents!

Patricia Harvey MTheol
5.0 out of 5 stars
Girls are equally well made in the image of God!
Reviewed in the United States on January 3, 2020
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Diana Wilcox presents God’s message in language easy to understand through Sophy’s story. Inclusivity is explicit. Thus it is an antidote to the patriarchy that has been imposed on a God (and Church) that is neither male nor female. We are all made in God’s image. I speak from New Zealand and this book is just as relevant here. Useful notes for Sunday School teachers and parents.
One person found this helpful
Paula T
5.0 out of 5 stars
A must-read for “children” of all ages
Reviewed in the United States on December 23, 2019
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This a beautifully illustrated story, with a simply profound and theologically rich message for all of God’s children. I read it and was so moved, I ordered more for gifts. I shared it with our parish administrator. Her response? “Boy, I wish I had read that when I was a girl, or when my girls were younger.” It truly is a must-read and not just for girls and the not-quite-so-young female people, but for anyone who wants to understand that they are wonderfully and perfectly made.

Cheryl Restaino
5.0 out of 5 stars
Questions asked, questions heard, answers sought.
Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2019
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A beautifully illustrated book for all ages with dialogue we can all understand. Opening the eyes and hearts of children will change the world and this book is a good place to start.

tug-3
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sensitively written
Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2020
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A sweet, colorful text for children of any faith. Remarkably inclusive and sensitive. The illustrations are just marvelous.
Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars
Open your heart, mind and soul.
Reviewed in the United States on December 10, 2019
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A must read for all ages as we deepen our relationship with God and one another.

Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great for all religions. I plan to use it in our Unitarian church.
Reviewed in the United States on December 19, 2019
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Loved the theme!

C. K. Zuelsdorf
5.0 out of 5 stars
Girl power!
Reviewed in the United States on February 8, 2020
Finally, a look at God with girls in mind. Wonderful and welcome!

Janie
5.0 out of 5 stars
Inclusive Book
Reviewed in the United States on February 23, 2020
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This book asks the question females have been asking for a while. It also includes multiple religions to make it an inclusive book on many levels. Reading it I was wondering just how many Sunday Schools across the country would include a book like this for children, but it seems a step in the right directio

Author

Bob Wise

Bob Wise is the founder of one of the world’s largest music publishing firms. He is the author of three books featuring the entrepreneurial mice Hickory, Dickory, and Doc: This Isn’t My House, That Can’t Be the Time!, and Uncle Able to the Rescue

Artist—Illustrator

Deborah Ades

Deborah Ades earned a certificate in Natural Science Illustration from the New York
Botanical Gardens. Deborah has been drawing and painting for as long as she can
remember. While living in Manhattan, she recalls running to catch a subway when she
noticed a large dragonfly lying on the sidewalk. This began a lifelong fascination with
the natural world. As a long-time lover of children’s literature, Deborah wanted to
contribute to the genre with her art. For her first book, Hummingbird Lily, she chose
the Ruby-throated Hummingbird because it is the only hummingbird that breeds
in eastern North America, making it possible for her to observe it during the warm
months. Next stop, more nature, fantasy, and adventure.

Author

Claudia Rose Addeo

After overcoming what felt like a lifetime of obstacles, Claudia Rose Addeo writes and speaks about her journey of what life was like growing up as a neurodiverse learner in mainstream society and a flawed “one-size-fits-all” education system. At just two years old, Claudia received an initial diagnosis of PDD (ASD)/severe language delay and, following this, was re-diagnosed with inattentive ADHD by the time she reached 1st grade. Throughout her journey, Claudia received nearly 10 years of speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, cognitive therapy, and additional supportive services. Though Claudia faced backlash due to the negative stigma often associated with the term “special education student”, Claudia still persevered and prevailed. At the tender age of twenty-two, Claudia graduated with her master’s degree in literacy education. The following year, Claudia was hand-picked to receive the “Top Young Writer” award from Autism Parenting Magazine. Currently working as a certified teacher, literacy specialist, and Ph.D. student, Claudia writes, researches, and speaks about the importance of neurodiversity acceptance. Claudia advocates for the provision of effective special education accommodations, as well as the need for a more inclusive learning environment in the world of academia and beyond. Claudia resides with her family in Long Island, New York. You can follow her on Instagram: claudia.addeo, Twitter: @claudiaaddeo, or on Facebook: claudia.addeo

https://www.claudiaaddeo.com

Author & Illustrator

Sue Quin

Sue, is a professional musician, performer, singer, and songwriter/composer who has been working in the music industry for the past 40 years. As a backup singer, she has performed with artists such as Gloria Estefan and Patti Austin, as well as being the voice behind hundreds of sessions for radio, TV, film, and studio albums and singles. She has worked in music education for over 20 years, from Primary right through to Higher Education, and is currently Head of Vocals at a UK University. She takes great pride in the pastoral and support work she does with students who struggle to cope with the challenges of life. Sue is a proud Mum and Nani and has always written and told stories to her children and to her grandchildren. She rediscovered her great love for painting in lockdown and began working on illustrations for her stories and poems – she hasn’t put her brush down since! She is a great lover of the sea, animals, nature, and the environment; she is also passionate about giving a voice to those who are all too often denied the chance to be heard, which is something that was the inspiration for this book.

Illustrator

Lauren Foster MacLeod

Lauren is an artist and illustrator living in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. She grew up in Montréal,
Québec and graduated from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, concentrating her art
studies in drawing, painting and printmaking.
Sketching from life is a passion and Lauren has sketchbooks full of her live sketches done over
the past 40 years. Her love and skill of drawing people from life led her to doing freelance court
sketching in 2010 which she has continued to do on a freelance basis. Lauren works in many art
media but always comes back to basic sketching as her favourite. She has been part of the
Urban Sketchers Ottawa group since 2015.
While Lauren has done freelance illustration work for many years, Bree and Me is her first
children’s picture book.
Social media:
Facebook
Instagram: @lauren.fosterm

Quicklinks to Titles

Bob Wise Hickory Dickory & Doc https://amzn.to/3Nrx7de
Bruce Spizer The Beatles Magical Mystery Tour and Yellow Submarine https://amzn.to/3NpaTc0
Camille Licate Bree and Me https://amzn.to/3sOLMpC
Carl Moellenberg Carl Moellenberg's Story https://amzn.to/3Wiq9LQ
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