Whether your child is struggling to fit in, learning to try again after failure, or just beginning to discover who they are — there's a book in this series that was written just for them.

All books are available on Amazon. Award-winning. Ages 4–8.

You are brave. You are enough. You can do this.

7 picture books. 7 unforgettable characters. One message that never gets old:

Every story is different. Every character is unforgettable. And every book ends with the same truth: you have the courage to be exactly who you are.

THE COURAGE TO BE ME SERIES — All 7 Books

Heart Trouble for ZZ

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Piper's Perfect Pick

LilliMae's Safari Hat

Fried Taters

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Old Long Snout

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Lillimae's Safari Hat

Fried Taters

Heart Trouble for ZZ

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Kiki Finds Her Way

Fried Taters

Heart Trouble for ZZ

Old Long Snout

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Jenny's Journey of Faith

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Heart Trouble for ZZ

Old Long Snout

Kiki Finds Her Way

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Piper's Perfect Pick

Old Long Snout

Kiki Finds Her Way

Jenny's Journey of Faith

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Lillimae's Safari Hat

Kiki Finds Her Way

Jenny's Journey of Faith

Piper's Perfect Pick

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Fried Taters

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Jenny's Journey of Faith

Piper's Perfect Pick

Lillimae's Safari Hat

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What Readers Are Saying

“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.”

Old Long Snout

“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.”

Piper’s Perfect Pick

“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.”

Heart Trouble for ZZ

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“Quite an adventure story.”

“A high-energy and fun-loving LilliMae.”

"Brilliant Fun! Adorable characters, amazing settings, and marvelous story telling."

Lillimae's Safari Hat

“A heartwarming story about resourcefulness and the importance of community.”

“Beautifully captures the spirit of determination and proactive approaches to problems.”

“Very highly recommended.”

Fried Taters

“A warm reminder for kids and parents that kindness, courage, and faith can carry you through anything.”

“A story about believing in yourself, even when others doubt you.”

“A wonderful way to talk about persistence and the quiet strength in all of us.”

Jenny's Journey of Faith

Come on a whirlwind safari adventure in “LilliMae’s Safari Hat!” LilliMae loves her hat, a versatile companion for all occasions. But when a sudden gust of wind sweeps it away during a safari expedition, her hat embarks on its own journey.

From playful elephants to curious leopards, confident lions, and charging rhinos, the hat becomes the star of every animal’s day. LilliMae’s quest to reclaim her hat leads to unexpected discoveries, resilience, and a heartwarming transformation as she realizes that sometimes what is lost can change into something even better. 

Lillimae's Safari Hat

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Join ZZ, an exuberant golden retriever puppy, on his unexpected journey in 'Heart Trouble for ZZ.' A routine vet visit takes a serious turn when a heart condition is suspected, putting ZZ's spirited nature to the test. All ZZ wants to do is play, but his family wants him to follow the doctor’s orders and stay calm. What’s a puppy to do? 

This heartwarming story showcases the support of family, the power of teamwork, and the joy found in overcoming obstacles. 

Most importantly, it reminds us to give unconditional love to our pets.

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Heart Trouble for ZZ

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Piper's Perfect Pick

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In a world of frustrated sports attempts, Piper yearns to find her true calling. But just when she is on the verge of giving up, her cat, Tater Tot, inspires an unexpected idea: boxing. Piper discovers her passion while learning that courage isn't just about throwing punches.

In this compelling tale of resilience and determination, Piper teaches us an invaluable lesson: true strength lies in the willingness to explore the unknown, to never surrender to failure, and to keep pushing the boundaries until we uncover our own unique path.

Sometimes, what we love most is not what we expect, and Piper's story serves as a powerful reminder that our passions are waiting to be discovered if we persevere and never stop searching.

In Piper’s Perfect Pick, witness a heartwarming transformation 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.

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Read the whole review!

"Peni Clark has also included lessons on enthusiasm, perseverance, and determination, showing how Piper kept trying even after having attempts at various activities that ended in embarrassing and humorous mishaps. Piper is an admirable character who embodies great qualities that adults and children can learn from. Apart from the lessons, the colorful illustrations perfectly complement the story.
 I enjoyed this book and recommend adding it to your children’s book collection." 

- Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers’ Favorite

"Piper's Perfect Pick is a delightful and relatable story that explores the struggles of finding the right fit in sports."

Piper's Perfect Pick is a children’s picture book written by Peni Clark with illustrations by Penny Weber. It tells the story of Piper, a young girl who wants to play a sport in school. Unfortunately, all her attempts end in disaster. From basketball and soccer to tennis and balancing on a beam, no sport feels right. Her family gets involved, suggesting different sports she might like, but nothing sparks her interest. Piper feels discouraged by all her failed attempts at different sports, but she does not stop searching. She is determined to find the sport that suits her. Piper asks her cat for advice, and their conversation leads her to boxing. Trying out boxing for the first time scares her family, who know the sport requires stamina, bravery, and strength. However, Piper is determined to achieve her dream. Join Piper as she trains for her first match to become a boxer.

Piper's Perfect Pick is a delightful and relatable story that explores the struggles of finding the right fit in sports. Children are talented in different fields, and trying different things is a fun adventure involving many failures and victories. This is a vital part of their development and personal growth as individuals. Peni Clark has also included lessons on enthusiasm, perseverance, and determination, showing how Piper kept trying even after having attempts at various activities that ended in embarrassing and humorous mishaps. Piper is an admirable character who embodies great qualities that adults and children can learn from. Apart from the lessons, the colorful illustrations perfectly complement the story. The separate text and art allow for a more accessible reading experience, making it easy for children with reading difficulties to follow along and enjoy the story. I enjoyed this book and recommend adding it to your children’s book collection.

Experience the enchantment of "Old Long Snout" as Nellie's determination, imagination, and love are tested. 

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Old Long Snout

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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. 

However, she discovers there are no potatoes to be found. Now what will Pammy Lee do?

Fried Taters

“Fried Taters” is an inspiring story that celebrates family, the joy of fresh vegetables, and the power of community. 

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.

But when Nellie enters her beloved pig into the neighborhood pet parade, she faces a challenge unlike any other - no one else can see Old Long Snout. Will their friendship prevail in the face of disbelief? Will Nellie finally find her voice?

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What if the donkey who carried Mary to Bethlehem had a story to tell?

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Jenny's Journey of Faith

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Kiki the octopus is nervous about her first day at Sea Floor School - and it shows. Her eight waving arms draw stares. Her skin changes color when she's scared. And when she gets startled, she squirts ink... everywhere. Kiki tries her best to fit in, but the harder she tries, the more different she feels.

Kiki Finds Her Way is a warm, funny, and empowering picture book about belonging, bravery, and 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

A Heartwarming Octopus Picture Book About Confidence, Belonging, and Being Proud to Be Different

Jenny is a small donkey with a big heart. She's always been told she's too little, too shy, and too ordinary to do anything important. But when a kind woman named Mary chooses Jenny for a special journey to Bethlehem, everything changes.

Told from the donkey's point of view, Jenny's Journey of Faith is 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 while learning valuable lessons about courage, kindness, perseverance, and believing in themselves.

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Get TWO Free Gifts When You Subscribe!

5-Minute Confidence Boosters for Kids — quick phrases and activities to help children feel brave and strong. My Favorite Children's Book Quotes — a printable collection of warm and inspiring quotes for your home. Plus: be the first to know about new books and free activities!

Free Printable Activities!

Explore a delightful collection of downloadable activities and educational games designed by kindergarten teacher, Peni Clark. These resources are thoughtfully crafted to engage young learners, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and foundational skills in a fun and interactive way.

From colorful puzzles and alphabet games to interactive math challenges and storytelling adventures. These activities provide a rich, hands-on learning experience that is educational and enjoyable!

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Explore All Of Peni Clark's Books

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Inspiring stories that grow confident, compassionate kids.