Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been passionate about teaching kindness and good manners since becoming a parent. Raising three energetic kids has shown me firsthand how small lessons in empathy and respect can shape their world. At first, I created fun stories to help my children understand the power of simple words like "please" and "thank you." Now, as a children’s book author, I bring those lessons to life through storytelling, making manners and values fun and memorable. The books on this list have inspired me in my journey, and I hope they bring the same joy and guidance to you and your little ones!


I wrote...

Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

By Avery Smart ,

Book cover of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

What is my book about?

Ellie the Chick is a curious little bird who loves to explore and learn new things. But when she forgets…

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The books I picked & why

Book cover of The Wonderful Things You Will Be

Avery Smart Why I love this book

I love this book because it beautifully captures the endless possibilities of a child’s future with warmth and imagination. The poetic rhythm and dreamy illustrations make it a joy to read aloud, and every time I do, I feel a wave of hope and love. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause and appreciate the magic of childhood.

What really stuck with me is how it celebrates individuality without pressure—just pure encouragement wrapped in gentle words. It’s a book that I know children will carry in their hearts as they grow, and as a parent, it reminds me of the wonder of watching little ones discover who they are. If you want a book that feels like a warm hug, this is it.

By Emily Winfield Martin ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Wonderful Things You Will Be as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

The New York Times bestseller that celebrates the dreams, acceptance, and love that parents have for their children . . . now and forever. This is the perfect heartfelt gift for kids of all ages, plus a great choice for baby showers, birthdays, graduations, and other new beginnings!

From brave and bold to creative and clever, Emily Winfield Martin's rhythmic rhyme expresses all the loving things that parents think of when they look at their children. With beautiful, lush illustrations and a stunning gatefold that opens at the end, this is a book that families will love reading over and…


Book cover of I Love You Like No Otter

Avery Smart Why I love this book

I adore this one because it’s the perfect mix of sweetness and playful wordplay. From the moment I picked it up, I couldn’t stop smiling—it’s filled with adorable puns and charming animal illustrations that make reading it an absolute delight. It’s the kind of book that instantly lifts your mood.

What makes this book so special to me is how it captures love in such a lighthearted, joyful way. Whether reading it with little ones or gifting it to someone special, it always brings warmth and laughter. I love how it turns simple moments into something magical, reminding us how words can be both fun and meaningful. It’s a book I reach for whenever I need a dose of happiness!

By Rose Rossner , Sydney Hanson (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Love You Like No Otter as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Give hedgehugs and kisses to your little squeakheart with this pun-tastic, funny baby book, the perfect gift for baby showers, new parents, or any occasion!
There's no better way to say "I love you" than with a sweet and heartfelt animal pun book! I Love You Like No Otter combines a warm message of love with beautifully illustrated animals families will love to read and share together. From Valentine's Day books for kids to baby shower gifts and bedtime readalouds all year long, this adorable board book is purrfect for anyone you love beary much!
The best book gift for:…


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Book cover of Songbird

Songbird by Laci Barry Post,

It's 1943, and World War II has gripped the nation, including the Stilwell family in Jacksonville, Alabama. Rationing, bomb drills, patriotism, and a changing South barrage their way of life. Neighboring Fort McClellan has brought the world to their doorstep in the form of young soldiers from all over the…

Book cover of Giraffes Can't Dance

Avery Smart Why I love this book

I love this book because it’s a beautiful reminder that everyone has their own rhythm—even if the world doesn’t see it at first. The story is uplifting, the rhymes flow effortlessly, and the illustrations are pure joy. Every time I read it, I feel a little braver, a little lighter, and a lot more inspired.

What makes this book unforgettable for me is how it celebrates confidence and self-expression. I’ve seen kids' faces light up when they realize, just like Gerald the giraffe, that they don’t have to fit in to shine. It’s one of those books that sticks with you long after you close it, reminding you to dance to your own beat—no matter what anyone else thinks.

By Giles Andreae , Guy Parker-Rees (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked Giraffes Can't Dance as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

Gerald was a tall giraffe whose neck was long and slim,
But his knees were awfully bandy and his legs were rather thin . . .

Gerald the giraffe longs to go to the great Jungle Dance, but how can he join in when he doesn't know how to tango or two-step? Everyone knows that giraffes can't dance . . . or can they?

A funny, touching and triumphant story about being yourself and finding your own tune, with joyful illustrations from Guy Parker Rees. This chunky board book edition is perfect for little hands.

"All toddlers should grow up…


Book cover of I Prayed for You

Avery Smart Why I love this book

I love this story because it beautifully captures the deep, unconditional love between a parent and child. Every page feels like a heartfelt embrace, reminding me of the quiet, powerful moments of love and protection we offer to little ones. It’s a book that fills my heart every time I read it.

What makes this book so special to me is how it weaves faith, love, and gratitude into such a simple yet touching story. The gentle words and warm illustrations create a sense of comfort, making it a perfect bedtime read. I’ve found myself reflecting on my own prayers and hopes for the children in my life, making this book not just a story but a deeply personal experience.

By Jean Fischer ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Prayed for You as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

One of the best children's books about love and family, I Prayed for You by Jean Fischer reveals how deep a mother's love for her child can go. This board book is great for little ones and has sold more than 300,000 copies!

The heartwarming story follows a mother bear who prayed for her child's arrival, then cherished and prayed for each of her baby's firsts--from first step to first boo-boo to first day of school.

I Prayed for You is just as meaningful to parents as to children. Inside you'll find

10 rhyming prayers that show children how loved…


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Book cover of Songbird

Songbird by Laci Barry Post,

It's 1943, and World War II has gripped the nation, including the Stilwell family in Jacksonville, Alabama. Rationing, bomb drills, patriotism, and a changing South barrage their way of life. Neighboring Fort McClellan has brought the world to their doorstep in the form of young soldiers from all over the…

Book cover of Why a Son Needs a Mom

Avery Smart Why I love this book

I love this one because it beautifully illustrates the unbreakable bond between a mother and her son. Every page is filled with heartfelt reminders of the little moments that shape a lifetime, making me reflect on the special role a mother plays in guiding, supporting, and loving her child unconditionally.

What makes this book truly special to me is the way it captures both the simple joys and the deep, meaningful lessons that mothers pass on. The touching words and warm illustrations make it a book I want to share with families again and again. It’s a reminder of the love, wisdom, and strength that mothers give so freely, and it left me feeling both grateful and nostalgic.

By Gregory Lang , Susanna Leonard Hill , Gail Yerrill (illustrator)

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Why a Son Needs a Mom as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Based on Gregory Lang's New York Times bestselling original series! The perfect Mother's Day gift, birthday present for mom, or sweet keepsake to show why Mom is so special!
A touching picture book showcasing all the ways a mother will help her son grow, this is the gift for every mom and little boy to celebrate their special bond. Featuring charming animal illustrations and heartwarming rhymes about the loving moments mothers and sons share, Why a Son Needs a Mom is the perfect story to connect mother and son together.
From the moment that I saw your beautiful face,
Held…


Explore my book 😀

Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

By Avery Smart ,

Book cover of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

What is my book about?

Ellie the Chick is a curious little bird who loves to explore and learn new things. But when she forgets to say the magic word—"please"—she realizes that being polite makes a big difference! Through fun and engaging storytelling, this book helps young readers understand the importance of good manners in a way that’s easy to grasp and fun to practice.

With colorful illustrations and a heartwarming lesson, this delightful picture book encourages toddlers and preschoolers to use kind words in their daily interactions. Perfect for parents, teachers, and caregivers, it is a charming addition to any child’s bookshelf, teaching social skills in a playful and memorable way.

Book cover of The Wonderful Things You Will Be
Book cover of I Love You Like No Otter
Book cover of Giraffes Can't Dance

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