Julienne Levy Marks’ Children’s Books:
My Emotional Well-Being Series begins with How Can You Love Yourself? Finding Many Pebbles to Make a Difference in Learning about Loving Yourself while the second book is titled How Can You Help One Another? Finding Many Pebbles to Make a Difference in Learning about Helping One Another. They were children’s non-fiction picture books. My newest book is How Can You Discover and Learn about Interests, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions? Finding Many Pebbles to Make a Difference. Please note this book is a text-only book and has no illustrations except for the Cover by Kiara Miller. On some of the pages are blank spaces where the Reader is encouraged to draw or write something about the page.
These books share the journeys of two elementary-aged children, Evan and Ruth and their mentor and older friend, Mrs. Hope and her service dog, Kindness. The children are looking for ways to positively change themselves and make their world a kinder place. As they travel to different locations, they visit a library while learning about Loving Yourself and then go to see an Inclusive School and Playground, soup kitchen and animal hospital where they share ways of Helping One Another while meeting children with health issues. In the third book, How Can You Discover and Learn about Interests, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions? Finding Many Pebbles to Make a Difference, they tour a community center where they observe and participate in many different interests, hobbies, collections, causes, and passions. Mrs. Hope guides them to learn about specific themes and experiencing activities to gain understanding of the topics, as well as, meeting all kinds of people. These books share the journeys of two elementary-aged, middle school children, and their adults.
Originally, I had wanted to, but I am no longer requesting from some non-profit organizations that have similar ideas to mine, in purchasing my books from the publisher wholesale in bulk and then distributing them for free to their populations. My goal was to have as many children as possible read, learn and enjoy the content of these books.
I have chosen not to be earning any money from the selling of my books.
In my books for adults my Acknowledgements were very descriptive by locations and what the person did for me. However, in these children’s books my Acknowledgements were usually just the names. And in these children’s books I actually used some of the names of friends and relatives as characters.
In the third book, How Can You Discover and Learn about Interests, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions? Finding Many Pebbles to Make a Difference, besides the main characters: Mrs. Hope, Kindness, Ruth, and Evan, there are some adults reintroduced like the Williams, the Jones, Mr. Bob Smith, Ms. Jane Carter, and Mrs. Ethel Paterson, There are also many new adult characters introduced. Examples include Mrs. Hope’s husband who comes from India and his niece Mrs. Devyani, Mrs. Debbie, Dr. Henrietta, Mrs. Carrie, Mrs. Lea, Mr. Greenfield, Mrs. Rhonda, Mrs. Joy, Mrs. Mae, Mrs. Ashley, Mrs. Shelly, Mrs. Carol, Eva, Amy, Franco, Mrs. Missy, Mrs. Eva. Ms. Neda, Ms. Ellen, Mrs. Becky, Mrs. Sturm, Mrs. Willow, Mrs. Georgianna, Mrs. Fran, Mrs. Solomon, Mrs. Pam, Mrs. Michelle, Mrs. Marna, Mrs. Inez, Mrs. Debby, Mrs. Bigg, Mrs. Moore, Mrs. Judy, Mr. Johnson, Ms. Brown, Mr. Harold and Mrs. Janice. Several of the children characters in the other two books are reintroduced in the third book like Karl, Geraldine, Esther, Joseph, Yoko, Alan, Eileen, Dolores, Henry Jeff, Anne, Bill, Jo, Warren, Jo-Ann, Seth, Vicki, Len , Nancy, Bill, Marlene, Marsha, Becca, Julia, Kevin, Emma and Becca. A new child who was introduced is Margaret.
Book Reviews:
How Can You ‘Love Yourself?’ Finding Many Pebbles to Make a Difference in Learning about ‘Loving Yourself’
Julienne Levy Marks’ beautifully illustrated (Illustrated by Leigh Ann Schuttler) children’s book, “How Can You ‘Love Yourself?’ is a well-written ode to individual positivism.
Ms. Marks convincingly and passionately advocates ways for children to aid in making themselves and the world a kinder and more compassionate place by learning to love and appreciate themselves and their uniqueness. Through the words and actions of a kind mentor – aptly named Mrs. Hope – two children are introduced to a wide variety of activities and strategies which provide tools to help them become more self-assured, sensitive, and empathetic towards others.” Levi Williams, retired teacher and author of numerous books on American culture and history
“It seems that you have two things going on here: Telling a story about Mrs. Hope and the children AND useful activities. I think it’s brilliant how you are weaving the two together.
This book shares a message that all youth need to hear; that you are loved, unique and special – and so is everyone else. The story and activities in this book will help children learn to love themselves, and in turn love others. Readers will be drawn to the beautiful illustrations.” Anne Moore, Parenting Workshop facilitator of “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk”™ By Faber and Mazlish, preschool librarian
“This book is so well written and the illustrations are perfect. I loved how the author wants to be sure everyone feels special. In today’s world this book is a must read for children and parents.”
Mae Lynn Biggs, author of “Obey Miss Mae”
“This world is full of too much angst and anger. Your book is a breath of fresh air to read as it focuses on kindness and compassion one takes a pauses to reflect. And the art is a bonus to the words as it also expresses gentleness.” Janice Allen, grandmother
“Having read the book twice through, I wanted to share my thoughts: I am sure all of us have moments in the life where we question the purpose of life like Evan in a very poignant question. I also loved the choices of names Hope and Kindness-they are relatable and give the story a softer feel. As a reader, I appreciated all the examples and useful actions that I can do. In addition, distinguishing between self-absorbed and loving yourself is helpful. Ms. Leigh Schuttler really captured in her illustrations your vision. It reminded me of Magic School Bus. I am very happy that you pursued this and expressed yourself through this book.” Devyani Telang. Parenting Workshop facilitator of “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk”™ By Faber and Mazlish”
“It’s really VERY NICE – love the way it is illustrated and the excellent writing!!” Pam Burmeister, mother and grandmother
“How Can You Love Yourself? By Julienne Levy Marks is an amazing and heartwarming book with appealing illustrations. It is a story about two children who go on an adventure to the library with their blind mentor, Mrs. Hope. They learn a wealth of information like affirmations and positive quotes, learn all about humility and self-love and care, and ways to express themselves creatively. This book is a truly precious and beautiful work of art, and I recommend it for anyone to read and feel uplifted and inspired. A Wonderful book.” Rebecca Mendelsohn, former children’s librarian
How Can You ‘Help One Another?’ Finding Many Pebbles to Make a Difference in Learning about ‘Helping One Another?’
“Julienne Marks continues her Emotional Well-Being series with a delightful book about helpfulness and inclusivity. The characters in the book journey through their hometown and notice people of all different abilities and situations. Through the guidance of Mrs. Hope, the children learn that a little helpfulness goes a long way and that all creatures deserve to be shown kindness. Children and adults will come away with tangible ideas on how to help others and the positive impact that it can make. Changing the world can start one child at a time!” Anne Moore, Parenting Workshop facilitator of “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk”™ By Faber and Mazlish, preschool librarian
“I am quite impressed with how the author was able to successfully integrate the main characters (Mrs. Hope, Kindness, her service dog, Evan and Ruth) with children that have health issues, sharing accompanying charts that explain to the reader about the children’s conditions, the children ‘Helping One Another,’ visiting different venues, and the beautiful illustrations by Leigh Ann Schuttler. Our world needs more books like this one.” Michele Marele, teacher
“I loved “How Can You Help One Another.” It reminds me a little of “Magic School Bus” (I think your books would compliment them so much!!!) and the so popular graphic novels. It is so chock full of so much useful information. I am in awe of how you so skillfully organized it all. It has absolutely everything children need to understand about empathy and compassion. Everything that many children are desperately missing.” Carol Groceman, Children’s Librarian, Palm Beach County Library System.
“How Can You Help One Another? By Julienne Levy Marks is a delightful book for children or people of any age. It is an engaging story about a blind mentor Mrs. Hope who guides two children through a day of fun and inspiring experiences where they learn about inclusivity and the value of service and community. This story is so inspiring and heartwarming. It is beautifully written and illustrated, and it’s a priceless educational guide as well as an entertaining and engaging book. Highly recommended!” Rebecca Mendelsohn, former children’s librarian
Well, I have finished reading your book: How can you Help One Another? I must confess, I couldn’t leave the book until I had finished reading the last page! My opinion about your book is: Remarkable, interesting, so much positive advice, how to act & respect each other in life!! Your book should teach: Pupils, Parents, Teachers at school etc. Education starts at home!! I really was very moved by all the advice in the book!! You are talented! I wish you good luck in writing more books in the future!!” Hadara, a mother of three boys who lives in Israel.
How Can You Discover and Learn about Interests, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions?
How Can You Discover and Learn about Interest, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions?
$13.99 – $26.99
“Julienne Levy Marks’s engaging book, How Can You Discover and Learn about Interests, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions?” is the third entry in her Emotional Well-Being Series. This captivating read continues the adventures of Evan and Ruth and their two companions as they visit a community center that helps stimulate their interests, hobbies, collections, causes, and passions through activities and information. This book is a valuable tool for children and anyone involved in aiding youngsters to reach their individual potentials.” Levi Williams, Teacher and Learning Disability Teacher Consultant.
“I really enjoyed reading the draft of How Can You Discover and Learn about Your Interests, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions? and seeing the thought, creativity, and heart you put into bringing your ideas and experiences together. I love how your writing encourages asking questions (they felt like deep spiritual questions), explore different perspectives, and become curious about others.
The way you included the field trip and how you incorporated an inclusive community into the learning experience was very unique. It was wonderful to see how people, instructors, and children can share common interests while still bringing different ages, experiences, and perspectives to the table. What a great way to show that everyone has something valuable to contribute!
I liked how you used the Norway example because it brought real world data into the conversation and helped connect your theme.
The idea of having Evan collect pebbles throughout his experience was so clever. It is a simple, hands on activity to reinforce learning.
I appreciated how you included Mrs. Hope’s experience as a librarian. It made me think of you (the librarian) – encouraging curiosity, helping people find answers, and making connections between ideas. It was lovely to see how your knowledge and experience became part of the story!
Your reminder that we’re never too old to play in the dirt was so true! We don’t have to outgrow that playful part of ourselves.
And thank you for including me as the calligraphy instructor! It was such a thoughtful and touching surprise to see you envision me as an artist sharing my craft with others. The fact that you made room for me truly means a lot.
I can see how all these pieces come together. I hope you feel proud of what you’ve created, because I am definitely proud of you! I love how you’ve made learning engaging, inclusive, and hands-on while encouraging people to think about life’s bigger questions, too. Your book reminds us that learning can happen through a conversation, a field trip, a handful of pebbles, someone sharing their craft, or simply taking the time to notice something new.
Your book left me with this! You are a wealth of knowledge, and your book is a beautiful ode to everything you love and hold dear—your family, your friends, your work, your passions, and your curiosity about the world. In many ways, I felt that you were sharing a little piece of yourself and I think that is what makes this meaningful.” Devyani Telang, Parenting Workshop facilitator of “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk”TM By Faber and Mazlish
The Emotional Well-Being Series
“Your efforts to make the world a better place, especially for children, are amazing.” Roz Goldman, former teacher
“Oh, what a joy! Like a warm ray of sunshine that brightens a cold gray day and changes the mood for the week! Kindness, to oneself and others, is a powerful energy that truly changes all. I truly believe kindness changes the world and is a skill that gets easier and stronger with use! And I love “Mrs. Marks Sparks!” Please continue to share your light and kindness! It truly makes such a difference in our world… needed more than ever!! Tossing a pebble your way.” Carrie Sue Ayvar, Storyteller.
“What a delightful way to make a difference. Your Pebbles Project is such important work. Which, after all, is why we are all here on the planet at this time. You must feel so fulfilled that those ripples are out there. I can see how it would be a fun parent-child, cuddle-up, discussion stimulating activity…a positive step toward a kinder, more compassionate world. Kudos to you for manifesting ways to make this troubled earth a better place.” Shelly Zacks, Co-Founder and Board Chair of Delray Beach Children’s Garden
“Julienne Levy Marks is an outstanding and prolific writer. She is spreading kindness, peace and love throughout the world one marvelous book at a time. Her books are intended to start conversations between educators and parents alike, to help children both to understand their feelings, as well as the feelings of others, and to express them appropriately. Her books contain suggestions and hands-on activities that help bring the books to life. Her books would be a welcome addition to any library. How much better would the world be if we could all truly love ourselves and spread love and acceptance in the world, instead of hate and diversity. All it takes, my friends, is opening one of the many beautiful books that Julienne Levy Marks has written.” Judy Pellino, retired teacher
Julienne Levy Marks’ Books for Adults :
These four Books share the author’s work life including her ideas, philosophy, programs, relevant websites, quotations, stories and Mrs. Marks’ Sparks (see above for an explanation). The author’s goal for these Books was/is to encourage the reader to share their gifts with the children they are working with by using Mrs. Marks’ ideas, philosophy, and program as a stepping off point.
Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Multiculturalism And Peace: For Teachers, Librarians, Peace Educators, Parents and All Who Work With Children
$14.99
Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections-Reading And Books-For Parents, Teachers, Librarians, and All Who Work With Children
$14.99
Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Education in Different Environments: For … Parents and All Who Work With Children
$14.99
Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections for Families, Parents, Grandparents
$14.99
Book Reviews:
“Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Families, Parents, Grandparents:”
“Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Families, Parents, Grandparents” is a treasure chest of resources and insights for anyone who lives with, works with, or cares about children.” Adele Faber, co-author of “How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk.”™
Amazon Reviews
“This parenting book “Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Families, Parents, Grandparents” is a wonderful resource for families, parents, and grandparents who desire to inspire, encourage, and positively shape their child/children’s lives. The volume is filled with the author’s hands-on recommendations (Mrs. Marks’ Sparks) gleaned from her own personal and professional experiences as a parent, a grandparent, a teacher, a children’s librarian, and a parenting workshop leader. In addition, there are detailed discussions of productive parenting techniques, numerous relevant quotations, and listings of suggested written and multi-media sources. Experiencing the book, one cannot help but sense the author’s passionate fervor in favor of the advocacy of the child and his/her own personal needs. This is the first of four Many Pebbles to Make a Difference publications. The others focus on education, reading, and promoting peace.” Reviewed by Bill Levy, Five Stars, April 30, 2016
“Mrs. Mark’s Sparks” sparkle in the ocean of parenting advice. In this book, the author, Marks, has given a comprehensive pearls of wisdom book for parents and caregivers. She touches on universal topics such as the importance of family time, the interactions with grandparents, and unstructured play. Also, the author acknowledges in her book the importance of “alone adult time” so that parents are refreshed and ready to return to their children as a recharged individual. Many times, we as parents forget to celebrate our own birthday or promotion. She encourages that adults should celebrate their own milestones. Overall, this book is a great resource to adult who want to “make a difference” in a child’s life.” Reviewed by DPT, Five Stars, July 31, 2017
“Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Education in Different Environments”
“Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Education in Different Environments” is a resource book whose title is long but don’t let that deter you from picking up this book. I loved it but don’t try to read it all in one sitting and don’t skip the Introduction. This book is written to be a guidebook spun from the authors’ many years of educating youth both as a teacher and a librarian. The Introduction breaks down the title. Why and what are pebbles? She brings a fresh perspective to this simple concept. The author then explains the setup for the book and brings who would find which chapters helpful. For example a homeschool family would finds chapters 5, 6, and 12 helpful. I skipped to those chapters and I was not disappointed. There I found ideas that could be adapted to anyone’s teaching or learning style. I found her concept of a Hobby Fair particularly interesting. Why? Well you have to pick up the book to find out. Whether you are a teacher, librarian, daycare worker, museum educator, afterschool program camp counselor or a Boy or Girl Scout Leader there is something for you.” Andrea Hall, President of EPIC Homeschool Network Inc., (www.epichsn.org) a homeschooling mother of 3, an education consultant with the Study Hall Education Consulting Company, LLC, as well an online math educator with Georgia Virtual School and Odysseyware Academy.
Amazon Review:
“Finally! Solid, concrete examples usable in a classroom as well as home! I loved the ON TV idea to discuss current events having students/children report on a current event as reporters. I also loved the PERSONAL DICTIONARY idea to improve one’s problem vocabulary/spelling by writing the problem word(s) in one’s own text; I intend to utilize this idea with Grammar errors! Each student’s grammar errors will make up his/her own Grammar Text complete with corrections in my college courses I am teaching! Finally, how do you really learn and “see” another person? Consider the interesting questions posed by Mrs. Marks under her INTERVIEW QUESTIONS. Consequently, this book offers many more sparks just waiting to be ignited!” Reviewed by MAP, Five Stars, June 18, 2016
“Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Reading and Books”
Amazon Reviews:
“I cannot think of a reason why someone who works with our youth would not buy this book. This work is well thought out and practical while being inspirational. Ms. Marks has devoted years of offering this experience to youth and their parents and caretakers. Now, here is the product of her knowledge and hard work. It is all here in her book(s). Our youth should be encouraged to engage with the world; read and read some more; and have an opportunity discuss their experiences with their peers and adults. This book is a practical road map to aid in those goals.” Reviewed by Michael A. White, Librarian, retired after 30 years of service, Five Stars, February 1, 2017
“I read through this book and thought “I’ve got to share this with the children’s librarian at my library!” What a wonderful series of books Ms. Marks has written! So many creative and unique ideas to help those who work with children. This book would be an excellent graduation gift for anyone launching out into teaching children, or a great thank you gift for those who are teaching our children. Thank you Ms. Marks for this great book!” Reviewed by Mae Lyn Biggs, Five Stars, June 28, 2016
“Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Multiculturalism And Peace.
“Just loved your book and title: Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Multiculturalism And Peace. As you wrote: “There is no one way to raise caring, loving, understanding, well-rounded children. As it is said, it takes ‘a community to raise a child.’” I believe that most parents would gain a great deal of insight from reading your book.” Fran Schmidt, Peace Educator, Writer Founder, The Peace Education Foundation, Peace Education International http://www.doonething.org/heroes/pages-s/schmidt-bio.htm
Amazon Review
“It is so difficult to teach any age learner about acceptance and cooperation. However, this text offers “hands on” ideas with many concrete and interesting twists on games and exercises. One example I had forgotten about is “BROWN EYES/BLUE EYES”. Read the book for clarification details! What an excellent application of bias, preferential treatment and unfair treatment, an experience all involved will not soon forget. All in all, this text provides a very positive outlook on communication and how to work together, a lesson we all can benefit from.” Amazon Customer, Five Stars, August 17, 2016