WALLY AND LU: Inspired by a true story (available for pre-order)
A chance encounter between a beluga and a narwhal reveals the power of embracing those who are different from us
Living miles apart at opposite ends of a vast body of water, two marine mammals—a narwhal named Wally and a beluga named Lu—feel restless. More than anything, they long to break away from their pods and explore the wide-open world beyond the horizon. As they venture alone into new waters, heading toward the place where warm and cold currents meet, a terrifying encounter with a freighter brings them directly into each other’s paths. Instantly bonded, Wally and Lu soon realize that, despite their differences, each is exactly what the other has been searching for. Wally and Lu is a fictional retelling of the true story of a narwhal who was welcomed into a pod of belugas in the St. Lawrence River.
The following picture book manuscripts are complete and seeking publication. If you are interested please contact Reed at reedandwritekids@gmail.com.
CLEMMY’S CAROUSEL
After the death of Clemmy’s grandpa, she discovers the community carousel they rode routinely is slated to close. As she restores it in remembrance of her grandpa she brings closure to her grief.
For as long as Clemmy could remember, Saturdays meant visits to the community carousel with her grandpa. But as he ages, so too does the carousel. When he passes away, the carousel closes in disrepair. In remembrance of her grandpa, Clemmy resolves to restore the carousel to its former magnificence. CLEMMY’S CAROUSEL (350 plus backmatter) is a lyrical fiction picture book for readers ages 4-8.
I’M NOT LYIN’
Free ice cream? I’M NOT LYIN’, but unfortunately for Lion, it’s only free for zebras. But sometimes things are not always black and white and Lion is determined to get his paws, er, hoofs, on ice cream too.
On a hot summer day, a lion discovers that free ice cream is being offered, but only for zebras. Determined to get free ice cream too, he goes to great lengths to convince readers he is a zebra. I’M NOTLYIN’ is a 350-word, humorous picture book for children ages 3-8.
LITTLE CANADA GOOSE
LITTLE CANADA GOOSE is eager to waddle in the webs of her gaggle and be this year’s winner of the annual butter tart contest. But when the flock cannot agree what is good for the goose or the gander, the little goose needs to spread her wings and take her own path or risk losing a spot in the family legacy.
Complete at 490 words, LITTLE CANADA GOOSE is a fractured fairy tale of The Little Red Hen with Canadiana elements. Written for readers ages 3 to 8 with themes of family, legacy, and baking. The backmatter provides an educational resource that aligns with grade 2 and 3 Canadian social studies curriculum.
BELLA’S REBOUND
When Bella plays basketball alone, she can score a slam dunk. But in front of a crowd she stumbles and fumbles. Bella needs to get her thoughts back on the court or risk being benched forever.
Complete at 350 words plus backmatter, BELLA’S REBOUND introduces the concept of positive self-talk and would appeal to readers aged 4-8. The backmatter for parents, therapists and teachers provides further enhancement.
GRACE’S SENSATIONAL DAY: A Mindfulness Sensory Journey
When Grace enters the bustling and busy market, she is overwhelmed, tense, and wants to leave. By stopping and exploring the sights, sounds, flavours, textures, and scents one at a time she experiences a mindfulness sensory journey that savours her surroundings. #SEL
WHAT IS THAT?!
When two animal friends venture beyond their yard in search of a better meal, they bite off more than they can chew. Each option worse than the last, WHAT IS THAT?! reveals the food is not always better on the other side of the fence.
THE RACE
When a young runner does her best in a race but still comes last, her emotions run wild.
😲 Shock
😳 Embarrassment
😠 Anger
Unless she remembers the joy of running, she’ll never discover what really matters. #SEL
Reed and Nicole 