Caroline Blakeslee, a South Carolina-based children's author and illustrator, has announced the release of her debut picture book, Brave Like Sunny, now available through her official website at booksbycarolineb.com. The book follows Sunny, a puppy who discovers that true bravery is not about being fearless but about persevering through tough times, one small wag at a time.
The story begins with Sunny, the happiest puppy on Sweet Gum Road, who wakes up one morning feeling different—tired, wobbly, and not himself. With his toy Lambie tucked under his chin, he makes his way to the vet's office, where a kind nurse named Nonie greets him with bubbles and peanut-butter treats. Along the way, Sunny meets Bootsie the kitten and learns that showing up is the bravest thing of all. The book, written and illustrated entirely by Blakeslee in watercolor and ink, aims to help children facing illness, medical treatment, or difficult seasons see their own struggles reflected in a warm, honest narrative.
Blakeslee's inspiration comes from her personal experiences with illness, loss, and grief. She states, 'Courage is not loud. It is the quiet decision to wag anyway, even when you don't feel like it.' Her background in studio art and psychology, including graduate work at the University of South Carolina, informs her approach to helping children process emotions through creativity. When her own health made traditional classroom work difficult, she turned to creating Brave Like Sunny.
The book is dedicated to 'brave kids and grown-ups who find light on the cloudy days' and to Milo, whose courage inspired the story. It is designed for use in hospital waiting rooms, pediatric care collections, school counselor offices, and home libraries. Educators, child life specialists, and parents may find it a valuable resource for conversations about medical courage, resilience, emotional regulation, and friendship.
Brave Like Sunny is available at booksbycarolineb.com. For media inquiries or review requests, visit the contact page at booksbycarolineb.com/contact-us.
