More Than Children’s Books: A Journey of Wonder, Connection and Belonging

Stories have an incredible ability to shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. Long after we forget the details of a bedtime story, we often carry its message with us for the rest of our lives. I began wondering what might happen if children’s books didn’t just entertain, but also helped children develop confidence, compassion, mindfulness and a deeper sense of belonging.

The Journey Collection

From the start, illustrator Sam Pullenza and I shared the same vision. Rather than simply pairing illustrations with words, we wanted every page to become part of the emotional experience. Sam’s artwork invites children to slow down, wonder and connect, while the stories create opportunities for meaningful conversations between children and the adults who love them. Together, we hope these books are not simply read, but experienced.

Stories That Explore Life’s Important Questions

Hey Tree, What Should I Be? encourages children to ask, “What makes me happy?” In a world that often asks children what they want to become, it gently reminds them that following their heart and discovering what brings them joy is just as important.

Imagine A World asks, “What happens when I imagine?” It explores the power of imagination while helping children understand that their thoughts, choices and acts of kindness can help create a more connected and compassionate world.

Just Be invites children to consider, “How do I find peace within myself?” Through mindfulness and presence. It reminds them that they don’t always have to be doing or achieving. Sometimes the greatest gift is simply learning to be fully present.

Josh Shelton conceived of and authored the I Am Adventure book series that encourages children to be more confident and aware. The series is imaginatively illustrated by Sam Pullenza (pictured).
Photos provided by Josh Shelton.

A Story of Connection to Something Bigger

For me, I Am The Drop & The Ocean is the heart of the entire collection. Children naturally begin life feeling connected – to nature, to others and to the world around them. As they grow, it’s easy to begin feeling separate. This story gently reminds them of a deeper truth: while each of us is unique, we are also part of something much bigger than ourselves.

Through the journey of a single drop of water returning to the ocean, children discover that every person matters, every act of kindness creates ripples and every individual belongs. It’s a simple metaphor that introduces one of life’s most profound ideas – that we are deeply connected to one another and to the world we share.

While each book stands on its own, they are meant to build toward something greater.

Each book prepares children to understand important principles. Confidence allows us to become ourselves. Imagination helps us envision a better world. Presence teaches us to appreciate the moment we’re in. And belonging reminds us that none of us walk this journey alone.

I hope these books become conversation starters. Some of life’s greatest lessons don’t come from giving children all the answers. They come from asking meaningful questions together.

If a child closes one of these books feeling a little more confident, a little more compassionate, a little more peaceful or a little more connected to themselves and others, then we, as storytellers, have accomplished exactly what we set out to do.

The stories children hear today become part of the voice they carry tomorrow. If that voice reminds them that they matter, that kindness matters and that they belong, perhaps they’ll grow into adults who help create a more connected, compassionate and hopeful world.

You can find the book series at iamadventurebooks.com.