1-2-3, A Deep Breath for Me Blog Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Do you have any tips or tricks for keeping your cool when big emotions start to bubble up inside you? Check out what works for Mack and Gertie in 1-2-3, A Deep Breath for Me, a fun picture book by early childhood educator Hillary Harper. In honor of this Mental Health Awareness Month, you could win a signed copy of this new release as well as a children's journal companion to the book!

My Review:

Backed by the author's professional knowledge, 1-2-3, A Deep Breath for Me tells an amusing and comforting tale that teaches about self-soothing techniques and emotion management skills. In spite of his enormous size as a dog, Mack has many fears that seem to stand in his way of trying to protect his family. He's worried sick not knowing what to do about those weired feelings until he meets Gertie, a tiny, plump pup with a big, brave heart. His new buddy shows Mack how to calm down through deep breathing and helps him memorize it with a playful rhyme. Will it work like magic every time he feels scared or uneasy? Are there other things that can help?

Featuring an adorable puppy pair in colorful, engaging and action-packed pictures, the story speaks to young children who share Mack's fear for thunderstorms, new things or new people, and being alone and away from parents. As they entertain the comedic effect created through the surprising contrast between the size and temperament of the two characters, they learn about coping strategies that are easy to master and fun to practice. 

When Mack hides in his safe space, Gertie validates his feelings instead of making fun of him. His kind responses and mindful coaching style help Mack overcome his fears step by step. The role Gertie plays in Mack's journey has important implications for parents and educators. It also encourages young minds to be more understanding and supportive of their friends who may be struggling to conquer their fears. The inclusion of real-life pictures of Mack and Gertie, along with their true stories, is the cherry on top, making the main characters even more relatable and memorable.

A delightful delicacy for puppy lovers, 1-2-3, A Deep Breath for Me is an accessible and appealing book that helps nurture empathy and emotional resilience from an early age.

About the Book:

Ages 3-8 | 38 Pages
Publisher: Cannoli & Co. Books | ISBN-13: 9798988363637

Meet Mack, the pup with emotions as big as his paws! At times, Mack finds himself overwhelmed by his feelings. His stomach is filled with butterflies, his legs grow wobbly, and he feels short of breath. Thankfully, Mack has his trusty sidekick, Gertie, to guide him through the tough times. Together, they explore ways to manage and overcome these powerful emotions.

Through Mack’s journey, children can learn breathing exercises, visualization techniques, and other self-regulation activities that can be practiced in their daily lives.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org

About the Author:

Hillary Harper has worked in the field of early childhood education since 2006. During this time she has worked as an elementary and preschool teacher, academic designer, and preschool/center director.

Her love of children’s books helped launch her book company, Cannoli & Co. Books, in 2023. Cannoli & Co. Books bring engaging, timeless, and creative stories to children and adults alike. The company is named after Hillary’s “best boy”, an English cream golden retriever named Cannoli. He and his canine brothers and sisters are the inspiration for her funny stories.

Hillary is a native of Ohio. She has three teenage daughters, who also inspire her on a daily basis. She is a second generation teacher and writer, following in the footsteps of her parents. Outside of her professional life, Hillary enjoys spending time gardening, taking care of her house plants, and going on adventures.

Learn more about Hillary and her book company at cannolicobooks.com. Follow her on Instagram.

One lucky Grand Prize winner will receive a signed hardcover copy of 1-2-3, A Deep Breath for Me and a children’s journal companion to the book!

Three additional winners will each receive a signed hardcover copy of 1-2-3, A Deep Breath for Me!

Giveaway ends 5/31. Open to US only. Please fill out the form below. Good luck!

1-2-3, A Deep Breath for Me: Book Giveaway

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Hillary Harper. All views and opinions expressed are my own. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.