New Children’s Picture Book Addresses Bullying, Body Image, Weight-Shaming and Self-Esteem, Opening Opportunities for Important Conversations Between Kids and Adults
LOS ANGELES, December 1, 2023 (CarryOnHarry.com)
– Author Daryl R. McCullough’s second book, “Chubby the Bear’s Big Choice,” is set in a California redwood forest and tells the story of a sensitive, young bear struggling with bullies and self-esteem issues. This tender new book offers children, parents, and others of all ages an engaging story with several timely lessons on bullying, body image, weight-shaming, and self-esteem to be shared and discussed. Parents and children’s therapists have already heralded the book as an essential tool on the subject matter. Order now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target or Archway Publishing.
Chubby is a fitting follow-up to McCullough’s award-winning first book “The Story of Tree and Cloud” — 1st Place, Pen Craft Awards; Finalist/5-Stars, “Reader’s Choice Book Awards”; 1st Place, “Firebird Awards”; and 3rd Place, “Best Children’s Book” and “Best Illustrated & Picture Book,” Spring 2022, Outstanding Creator Awards. “Tree and Cloud” is a story about loss and managing grief, also set among California’s natural beauty, starring a California live oak tree named Folie and her new friend Puddle. “Chubby the Bear’s Big Choice” is similarly illustrated — not as a cartoon, but in a pure and naturalist style — by McCullough’s 80-year-old aunt Maryanne Smith, an acclaimed nature artist from Pennsylvania.
“I grew up a chubby child who was bullied and weight-shamed by my peers and even by teachers and staff in grade school,” McCullough said. “I hope that by sharing this story, any child who might be dealing with these issues and feelings can find the strength to talk about it with their parents and learn self-care.
“Of course, I also hope the story might thwart a bully or two, providing a teachable moment for them that our individuality is powerful, and compassion is paramount in any friendship,” McCullough said.
The story follows its hero, Chubby, a sensitive young bear cub with a rare talent for befriending honeybees and perhaps enjoying too much of their honey. Bullied by other bear cubs in the forest, Chubby finds solace by retreating up in the air, high in the branches of the redwood trees. One day, Chubby’s mood gets lifted by his forest friends — a sweet raccoon and a wise beaver — and Chubby embarks on a journey to reclaim his self-esteem, choosing to teach the other cubs a lesson along the way. Ultimately, Chubby takes the high road and shows others he is emotionally mature enough to stand up for himself while showcasing his strengths in a thrilling culmination of the tale, which ends happily for all.
Available now, the book invites readers of all ages to embark on a powerful journey of self-discovery and empathy and helps foster essential conversations and empower the next generation.
“This magical story touched my heart and reminded me how, as a mother of two fabulous daughters, I always had my eye on bullying, particularly when it came to body shaming. Bullies teach us all how not to behave! Conversely, I taught my girls that staying connected with their bodies and loving and sharing their unique gifts with others were some of the healthiest ways to care for themselves and live fulfilled lives. Life is indeed a gift, so like Chubby, let’s all choose love, acceptance, and kindness!” — Melora Hardin, Emmy-nominated star (“The Office,” “Transparent,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “Monk”)
“Chubby the Bear’s Big Choice” by Daryl McCullough ISBN: 9781665749640 (Softcover); 9781665749664 (Hardcover); 9781665749657 (Ebook)
About the Author
Daryl McCullough is a professional writer and marketing communications executive who loves creative expression. He lives and works in the Los Angeles area with his husband George Griffin; together, they have a marketing communications and social media business, McGriffin Media. He is formerly CEO and now Chair Emeritus of Citizen Relations, a global brand marketing firm. The family adores their dog, Ferdinand, named after another delightful book.
About the Illustrator
Maryanne Smith is a talented 80-year-old artist. She has designed and painted many high-end wallpaper designs for the premier York Wallcoverings. She has sold many works of art drawn from nature, and “Chubby the Bear’s Big Choice” is her follow-up to “The Story of Tree and Cloud.” She is from York County, Pennsylvania. Prints of images from each book are available for purchase.
Author Denise A. Powis’s New Book, “Just be Yourself and No One Else!” Follows Three Punctuation Marks Who Try to Change Who They Are But Simply Cause Confusion
Copenhagen, NY, October 07, 2025 –(CarryOnHarry.com)– Denise A. Powis, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who enjoys painting, inventing, writing, and gardening, has completed her new book, “Just Be Yourself and No One Else!”: a heartfelt story that follows three punctuation marks who discover the importance of being true to themselves and what they do best.
In 2005, author Denise Powis received a bachelor of science degree from Empire State College, and she has worked for many years in the helping professions as a certified nursing assistant, home health aide, and substitute teacher for special education classes. At the present time, she teaches a Bible study/support group for women. In 1979, she won a 17 Islands National sailboat race.
In “Just Be Yourself and No One Else!”, readers are introduced to a period, an exclamation point, and a question mark who all long for a change of pace and decide to switch places one day. However, they soon discover they are not well suited for performing their new roles, and decide that they were made perfect for their original purpose.
Published by Hawes & Jenkins Publishing, Denise A. Powis’s engaging tale will delight readers of all ages as they discover the importance of accepting one’s self and being true to who they really are. With colorful artwork and a powerful life lesson, “Just Be Yourself and No One Else!” will help boost confidence amongst young readers, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page.
Readers who wish to experience this riveting work can purchase “Just Be Yourself and No One Else!” at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.
For additional information or media inquiries, contact Hawes & Jenkins at 888-430-7450.
The release of Magical Musical Memories aligns with research indicating music’s capacity to reduce stress and rekindle recollection among people living with dementia. It also echoes widely shared experiences—from football legend Sir Alex Ferguson to the family of singer Tony Christie—of music’s unique ability to unlock the past.
Inside the Community Spirit
“From the songs that we danced to at our first school dance, to the albums that became the soundtrack of our lives, each memory is a testament to the moments that have defined us,” said Helen Davies-Parsons, Chief Executive of Dormy Care Communities. “Music can transport us back to a specific time and place. Through these recollections, memories will now live on.”
How to Buy the Book—and Support Local Charities
The coffee-table style book is priced at £15. Copies can be purchased by contacting any of the five homes directly; card payments can be taken over the phone and books can be posted. A portion of every sale will be donated to local charities.
