It’s important to me that the stories I write have a lesson or a message. Being a writer allows me to be a teacher in a passive manor. But I can’t help being a “bossy boots” and explaining my intentions directly in the this post. The following are a couple of ideas and principles that I value and wanted to get across to readers in my new book, Crosby’s Balloon.

Modeling Supportive Family Behavior. Cash and Addie treat their younger brother, Crosby, compassionately throughout the story. They listen to him. They suggest things that might make good experiences more memorable (suggesting Crosby draw a picture of his dreams so he doesn’t forget.) They comfort him when he is sad (his balloon deflates) and try to make him feel better. Sibling relationships are a privilege that not everyone enjoys and that many take for granted. I regret not being nicer to my siblings when we were growing up.

Creative Problem Solving. This ties into having a supportive compassionate family. The Problem: Crosby’s balloon deflates= Crosby is sad. The solution isn’t a trip to the store to buy Crosby a new balloon. The solution is a long term remedy that could possibly give Crosby coping tools to deal with sadness and disappointment in future situations (loss of pet etc.) You’ll have to read the book to find out what happened…..

Crosby’s Balloon by Whitney McManus Oldendorf is available for sale on Amazon.com &
https://www.createspace.com/4849138