The holidays are right around the corner and what makes a better stocking stuffer than a book — specifically one written by a local author?
From books about equality to ones about loving our planet, Southeast Michigan authors are pulling out all the stops with their new kids’ books. Here are our top four faves.
1. The World Needs More Purple People
Michigan native and actress Kristen Bell’s new book, in collaboration with Benjamin Hart, The World Needs More Purple People, is a must-read for parents looking to share a message of unity and inclusivity. It’s a story about the things that bring us together as humans. Great for ages 3–7.
2. Briar Coats and the Tunnel of Styx
Local writers, spouses Kelly Long and Jay Long, who write under the name K.J. Long, have published their first fiction novel, Briar Coats and the Tunnel of Styx, a 148-page fantasy that will appeal to ages 8-12.
The story is an underwater adventure featuring a main character of color, Briar, who teams up with Verity to learn about his father’s disappearance.
3. Let’s Build a Rain Garden
Sally Wenczel, of West Bloomfield, hopes to help kids fall in love with Great Lakes ecology as much as she has with her new book, Let’s Build a Rain Garden.
In it, kids get a look at the creatures and native plants that thrive inside a rain garden. It also includes tips to build a rain garden, making it interesting for adults as well.
4. Yes, I’m Sure She’s My Mom
Single mom Freshauna Goodman, of Warren, wrote a keepsake children’s book, Yes, I’m Sure She’s My Mom, for families that might look a little different. She says she got the idea of the book to help her son, Daniel, “find peace, comfort, and a sense of empowerment about himself when it comes to his skin color being lighter than mine.”
Order the book through Goodman at facebook.com/freshauna.watts.7 or Instagram @yesimsureshesmymom.
5. The Legend of Long Leg Larry
The Legend of Long Leg Larry was written by a trio of Michigan friends (including Brent Mosser, the dad who illustrates the Monsters you see in Metro Parent) and is the first book in the Monster’s Rule! series. It tells the story of Freddy Freakazoid and the Monster Scouts who are looking for a mythical creature that lives in the woods around their camp. Together, the scouts learn a lesson in friendship and overcoming fear. You can order The Legend of Long Leg Larry online for $25 at monstersrulebooks.net.
