Author Profile
Marianne Celano PHD
4 Books
Marianne Celano, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, professor, and co-author of the widely recognized 'Something Happened...' children's book series. Her collaborative works, most notably the New York Times bestseller 'Something Happened in Our Town', empower parents and caregivers to hold open conversations with young children about racism, climate change, and community issues. She dedicates her writing to fostering resilience and understanding in young readers.
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A Child's Story about Racial Injustice
Jump into the story
Emma and Josh have heard people talking about something that happened in their town. A Black man was shot by the police, and everyone is having big feelings about it. Emma and Josh have lots of questions for their parents, like why it happened and what it means.
Why it pulls you in
This gentle and honest book follows two different families, one Black and one White, as they talk about what happened. It helps you understand big, difficult words like unfairness and racial injustice in a way that makes sense.
What you will discover
You will learn that it is always okay to ask questions when you feel confused or scared. By talking with your family, you can discover how to treat everyone with kindness and stand up for what is right in your own neighborhood.
40 Pages
Kids Tackle the Climate Crisis
Have you ever wondered what you can do to protect the Earth? When you join the Earth Patrol, you will discover that even small choices can make a massive difference for our planet.
When a young student realizes that her school is using too many throwaway items, she decides it is time to take action. She teams up with her friends to ask their school to switch to reusable plates instead of plastic ones. But changing the rules is not always easy, and the friends have to learn how to speak up and share their important message with the adults in charge.
This inspiring story shows you how to turn your worries about climate change into positive action. You will learn how to be a strong advocate for the environment right in your own community. Whether you are speaking up at school or making green choices at home, you have the power to help our planet heal.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
52 Pages
Standing Together after Gun Violence
When something scary happens in your neighborhood, it can be hard to know how to feel. After Miles's cousin Keisha gets hurt in a shooting at the local park, Miles feels worried and afraid. The park used to be his favorite place to play, but now everything feels different and unsafe.
But Miles soon discovers that he does not have to face his fears alone. With the help of his family and friends, he learns how to use his imagination to feel brave again. Even better, he sees his whole neighborhood coming together to make their park a peaceful and welcoming place once more.
This thoughtful and reassuring story helps you understand big events in your community. It shows that while scary things do happen, there are always caring adults working hard to keep you safe. By standing together and sharing your feelings, you can help bring hope and healing to the places you love.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
A Story about Parental Addiction
When someone in your family is struggling, it is normal to feel worried and confused. Claire's life changes completely after her mom gets into a car accident. Even as her mom's body starts to heal, she just does not seem like her usual self. Sometimes her mom misses work, and Claire finds herself taking care of her little brother Emmett more and more.
Eventually, Claire's mom explains the truth about what is going on. She has developed an addiction to her pain medication. Hearing this big news is scary, but it finally helps Claire make sense of the changes in her home.
This compassionate story walks with you through the heavy feelings that come with parental addiction. It provides a safe space to understand what addiction means and reminds you that a grown-up's struggle is never your fault. Through honesty and support, you will see how families can work together to heal and find hope for the future.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
40 Pages