In this Author POV feature, we introduce Penelope and the Vase, a gentle and uplifting picture book that supports social emotional learning by helping children understand that true beauty begins within. The story follows Penelope, a young girl who longs to be beautiful, only to discover that the qualities she admires were part of her all along. Through simple, heartfelt storytelling, the book encourages young readers to recognize their own worth, trust their inner voice, and build confidence without relying on external validation.
Originally written as a ninth-grade assignment and revived decades later, the story carries a timeless message of self-love and personal growth. Educators, librarians, and caregivers will find Penelope and the Vase a helpful tool for starting conversations with children about positive self-image, emotional resilience, and the importance of believing in oneself.
Can you introduce your book for librarians who may be discovering it for the first time?
Penelope and the Vase is a heartwarming story is about a little girl named Penelope who longs to be beautiful when she comes to realize that what she longed for was already inside of her. This book is intended to be a Social Emotional Learning resource.
What inspired you to write this book, and what core themes do you hope readers take away from it?
I was inspired to bring to life a 27 year old literature assignment that I wrote in the 9th grade because the timeless story is worth every eye to read and every ear to hear the wonderful message of this book promoting self-love and confidence. Additionally, I was inspired by the Yellow Sticky Note that my teacher left on my assignment stating, "Very well done. Good story. Good effort. Good Moral. I believe you will enjoy writing short stories after the holidays, you are good at it." Grade: 99.
What kind of readers or patrons do you see this book resonating with most?
This book will resonate with kids ages 4-8 (up to 10 for independent readers).
Educators, Librarians, and parents will be drawn to this book as a means of promoting self-love and building confidence in children.
What themes or discussion topics do you hope librarians highlight when recommending the book?
The topics of discussion that I hope librarians relay is that the book is a heart-warming story that helps children see the positive difference it makes when one does not seek external validation to define their beauty and to understand that true beauty comes from within.
Are there any sensitive topics or content considerations librarians should be aware of?
No there are no sensitive topics or content in this book.
If your book were part of a library display, what topics, themes, or comparable titles would you pair it with?
Themes: Picturebook, Social-Emotional Learning, Fiction
Are there companion resources librarians or educators should know about?
I have created a confidence bundle kit to accompany the book with the intention of providing an everyday reminder to kids to affirm themselves, love themselves, and believe in themselves.
Which formats are currently available?
Currently the hardback book is available for bulk discount orders and school discounts by emailing orderpenelope@boldmovespr.com.
Single copies and the confidence kit are pre-order only at this time at the link below. The book will also be available on Amazon KDP (paperback & ebook) and Ingram Spark (hardback) on 2 March 2026.
How could this book be used in community events or themed programming throughout the year?
National Youth Confidence Day - 20 October
National Self-love Day - 13 February
National Reading Month - March
Do you offer author engagement options for schools or libraries?
I offer in-person and virtual author engagements for schools and libraries to include readings, meet the author, workshops, Q&A sessions.
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