I recently published a post about She Loves Me All the Same, the first in a planned collection of titles for and about preschool-aged children whose families don’t necessarily fit the traditional mold. It's a heartwarming book about the love a child can have for a mom and stepmom - and a perfect way for kids to see that loving one doesn't mean loving the other any less.
“Blended families are the new norm -- this is not a niche topic anymore,” notes Gaddis. “And it’s important to acknowledge how kids feel about the new family arrangements. I love the resurgence of beautiful books for children dealing with a spectrum of social-emotional topics. We want She Loves Me All the Same to be relatable for young children who have new stepparents.” While an inter-married family may at times post difficult situations and responses, Gaddis says it’s important to acknowledge that even small people have complex emotions that need to be expressed. “The more we let these feelings come out, the more well-rounded and happy a child and the whole family will be.”
I had a chance to interview the author.
Why did you write this book?
When I became a stepmom, I was obsessed with how to do it “right”. I read blogs, books, joined support groups, etc. I felt equipped. But I couldn’t find ANY literature on talking to my stepdaughter about her feelings about me and our new relationship. There were loads of books about divorce and children having two homes, but nothing for kids about the new stepparent dynamic. I wrote this book to really try to help others in this position. Honestly, it is what I wish was there for us back then.
Why is it important for children with non-traditional families to see themselves reflected in children's books?
Family is family. We have our given family, our acquired family and our chosen family. There is no normal anymore- although society often acts as if there is a “normal.” Each family is unique and Little Maven is truly going to strive to represent everyone. The more our children see themselves in a positive way in the media (in all forms)- the more love and acceptance they will feel. This can only lead to good!
How can parents in split/blended households help the children involved honor the love that each adult can give?
What an important question. I am certainly not an expert in this field. But I do speak from firsthand experience. Anytime adults can speak positively about each other and have pleasant interactions, the better. Honoring a child’s emotions is also of utmost importance. There is a lot of guilt and a lot of love. There are new dynamics and relationships. In our home, we talk a lot. Sooooo much! We talk it out and navigate emotionally, together. And at the end of the day- love is what holds it all together.
Author-publisher Alisha Gaddis is based in Los Angeles and Columbus, Indiana. She is an actor and author, and tours internationally with the Latin Grammy and Emmy winning group, The Lucky Band. Her new book is based on her life: “Some of the things in the story really happened in our family. We really did have a day when we dressed up in our fanciest outfits and went to a library event. I really do sing opera (and Broadway tunes) in the shower. My stepdaughter (now age 15) would get embarrassed by some of these things, but now relishes them. I also have a 3 year old daughter now. I refer to them both as ‘my kids. Because, simply, they are.’”
She Loves Me All The Same will be available on October 18, 2019. For more information, visit www.littlemavenbooks.com .
About Little Maven Books
Little Maven Books® is the newest addition to Red Sky Presents catalogue. Under the direction of publisher Alisha Gaddis, this charming imprint reflects the modern family and the many ways children are growing up today. Little Maven will delve into various family styles and the creativity, diversity and inclusiveness that we strive to present our children. Always, Little Maven Books celebrates the joy and wonder of youth. “Want to create magic and a place where all kids are celebrated,” says Gaddis. Visit www.littlemavenbooks.com to learn more.
About Red Sky Presents
Red Sky Presents is the publishing imprint of Red Sky Entertainment. Based in New York, the publisher develops and presents series from accomplished authors as eBooks and print-on-dpriemand books, as well as develops them for movies, television, digital media, and merchandising. Visit https://redskypresents.com/ to learn more.
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