Hello, wonderful readers, parents, caregivers, and educators! I am absolutely thrilled to announce the arrival of brand-new picture book, Zenguin! If you’ve been following my journey here at Danna Smith Books, you know that I am passionate about stories that entertain but also tales that wrap a child in a hug and give them the tools they need to navigate their big, beautiful, and sometimes overwhelming world.
What is Zenguin All About?
In the icy, bustling world of the Antarctic, most penguins are busy splashing, sliding, and squawking. While the others are rushing about, Zenguin learns special ways to find his “center” even when the snowstorms of life start to swirl.
The story follows our feathered friend as he encounters a common childhood challenge—feeling anxiety. Through soft lyrical text and soothing artwork by NYT Best selling illustrator Sydney Hanson, children follow Zenguin as he uses mindfulness and breathing to stay calm, kind, and courageous.
Making a Positive Impact on Young Minds
As an author, my goal for this book was to create “shelf-help” for little ones. I believe Zenguin will have a lasting impact because:
- It Models Emotional Regulation: Children often don’t have the words for their internal chaos. Zenguin shows them, rather than tells them, constructive ways to find calm.
- It Normalizes “Big Feelings”: By seeing a brave penguin feel nervous, children realize that anxiety isn’t a flaw—it’s just a feeling that we can manage.
- It Encourages Empathy: The story highlights how Zenguin’s calm energy helps those around him, teaching kids the power of a peaceful presence.
A Gentle Tool for Anxiety
We live in a fast-paced world, and even our youngest children can feel the pressure. Anxiety in children often manifests as restlessness or withdrawal.
Zenguin introduces simple breathing techniques that little ones can use at school, before a doctor’s appointment, or even just before bedtime. It’s a gentle reminder that even when we can’t control the “weather” around us, we can control the “weather” inside us.
Where to Bring Zenguin Home
I can’t wait for you to hold this book in your hands and share it with the little ones in your life. You can find Zenguin at the following retailers:
- Independent Bookstores: Please support your local shops! If they don’t have it on the shelf, they can easily order it for you.
- Amazon & Barnes & Noble: Available in both hardcover and ebook formats.
- Publisher Direct: Order directing from Workman Kids Publisher and find links to other purchasing sites.
- Signed Copies: Stay tuned to this blog! I’ll be announcing a few local book-signing events where I’ll be hand-signing copies with a special “Zen” doodle.
Thank you for being part of this journey. I hope Zenguin brings a little more peace to your bookshelf!
