explore the 'courage to be me' series
Peni Clark, Kindergarten Teacher to Award-Winning Children's Book Author
Peni uses her decades of classroom experience to write books for children that are fun to read (for kids and adults!), heart-warming, and inspiring!
The Courage to be ME series features unstoppable young girls and big-hearted animal characters who may feel small at first but discover they are braver than they think. Peni's books help build confidence, strong character, and self-worth— empowering children to embrace and love themselves as individuals.
The Courage to Be ME Series
Whether it's a girl who discovers boxing, a golden retriever facing a health scare, or a little girl
with an invisible pig — every story in this series celebrates the courage it takes to be yourself.
Piper's Perfect Pick · Heart Trouble for ZZ · Fried Taters · LilliMae's Safari Hat · Old Long
Snout · Kiki Finds Her Way · Jenny's Journey of Faith
7 picture books. 7 unforgettable characters. One big idea: be exactly who you are.
Come on a whirlwind safari adventure in “LilliMai’s Safari Hat!” From playful elephants to curious leopards, confident lions, and charging rhinos, the hat becomes the star of every animal’s day.
Lillimae's Safari Hat
Piper's Perfect Pick
Heart Trouble for ZZ
Follow Piper as she learns to box in this heartwarming tale that will leave you cheering for Piper and inspire you to keep exploring until you, too, find the one thing that sets your soul on fire.
A routine vet visit takes a serious turn when a heart condition is suspected. This heartwarming story showcases the support of family, the power of teamwork, and the joy found in overcoming obstacles.
Old long Snout
Step into the whimsical world of Nellie, a quiet and imaginative girl with an unusual best friend - an invisible pig named Old Long Snout. Together, they embark on adventures and share an unbreakable bond.
Fried taters
In the hills of West Virginia, Pammy Lee and her Mamaw share a special bond over Mamaw’s cookin’, especially her fried taters. But when the potatoes run out, Pammy Lee embarks on a heartwarming journey through her neighborhood to find some.
A warm, funny, and empowering picture book about belonging, bravery, & learning to celebrate what makes you unique. With vivid ocean characters, a surprise twist, and a triumphant ending, this is a story children will ask to hear again and again.
Kiki finds her way
An uplifting Christmas picture book inspired by the journey to Bethlehem. Through Jenny's eyes, children experience a familiar Christmas story in a fresh and heartwarming way.
Jenny's Journey of faith
Piper's Perfect Pick
Heart Trouble for ZZ
Follow Piper as she learns to box in this heartwarming tale that will leave you cheering for Piper and inspire you to keep exploring until you, too, find the one thing that sets your soul on fire.
A routine vet visit takes a serious turn when a heart condition is suspected. This heartwarming story showcases the support of family, the power of teamwork, and the joy found in overcoming obstacles.
"Piper is an admirable character who embodies great qualities that adults and children can learn from.”
— Piper’s Perfect Pick | Readers’ Favorite
“A delightful and relatable story.”
“Peni Clark has included lessons on enthusiasm, perseverance, and determination.”
“Piper is an admirable character who embodies great qualities that adults and children can learn from.”
— from readers
“Young readers will be enchanted by ZZ’s rambunctious nature and come away with a valuable lesson in caring for loved ones.”
— Heart Trouble for ZZ | Literary Titan
“A heartwarming and insightful children’s book.”
“Heart Trouble for ZZ excels in demonstrating gentle and compassionate ways to care for pets.”
“Young readers will be enchanted by ZZ’s rambunctious nature and come away with a valuable lesson in caring for loved ones.”
— from readers
“A wonderfully heartwarming tale.”
“It teaches young readers to find their voices and to stand tall when all seems lost.”
“A story about having the courage to believe in yourself, friendship, and empathy.”
— from readers | Old Long snout
“Quite an adventure story.”
“A high-energy and fun-loving LilliMae.”
— from readers | lillimae's safari hat
"It’s a story of imaginary friends, but more than that, it’s about having the courage to believe in yourself..."
— old long snout | Readers’ Favorite
“A wonderfully heartwarming tale.”
“It teaches young readers to find their voices and to stand tall when all seems lost.”
“A story about having the courage to believe in yourself, friendship, and empathy.”
— from readers
"It’s a story of imaginary friends, but more than that, it’s about having the courage to believe in yourself..."
— fried taters | Readers’ Favorite
“A heartwarming story about resourcefulness and the importance of community.”
“Beautifully captures the spirit of determination and proactive approaches to problems.”
“Very highly recommended.”
— from readers
“A warm reminder for kids and parents that kindness, courage, and faith can carry you through anything.”
“A wonderful way to share the story of Jesus’ birth, while talking about persistence and the quiet strength in all of us.”
“A refreshing tale that tells the story of the Nativity from the perspective of the donkey who carried Mary to Bethlehem.”
— jenny's journey of faith | readers Favorite
More Than a Book...
Free Printable Activities!
Each Book Has It's Own Song!
Each book has its own original song, read-along, and free activities too. Peni also does author visits!
