The Gentle Pen - Kids Books Matter

Why the Right Book Can Change a Child’s World”

By Liv McLean

Author & Illustrator of Books That Spark Big Feelings and Bigger Imaginations

www.livmclean.com

As parents, grandparents, and teachers, we’re always looking for ways to connect with the little ones in our lives. We want them to laugh, learn, and grow into kind, curious, and confident people.

Books help us do that.

That’s why I write and illustrate stories filled with heart and humour—stories that reflect real childhood experiences (and sometimes real messes!), stories that say, “I see you, just as you are.”

Whether it’s Tommy and the Broken Window where Tommy is getting into lots of trouble again, Hazel and her horse Buttercup chasing a rodeo dream, or a classroom full of beautifully unique kids in “YOU ARE YOU I AM ME”, (soon to be released) my books are built for bedtime snuggles, teacher storytimes, and joyful giggles. But they also help children learn something important—about kindness, telling the truth, diversity, resilience, or how to be a good friend.

📚 Why it matters: There are thousands of books out there, but not all of them are created with love from start to finish. I spend hundreds of hours creating hand-painted illustrations and crafting words that children will carry in their hearts. A big publishing house does not back me. I’m just one Canadian author, working 50 to 60 hours a week, pouring everything I have into stories I believe in—because I know how influential books can be.

💛 How you can helpIf you’ve ever read one of my books to your child or classroom—thank you. Your support keeps my dream alive. If you’ve loved a story, I’d be so grateful if you’d take a moment to:

• Please leave a review on Amazon (they make a difference!)

• Share the book with a friend, teacher, or school librarian.

• Subscribe at LivMcLean.com for new releases and giveaways

🖌️ A little behind-the-scenes. Every illustration is hand-drawn or painted by me. I don’t just write the story—I live it, sketch it, dream it, and bring it to life, often with a cup of tea and a dog curled up at my feet.

✨ One last thing: Books are more than pages—they’re passports to imagination, healing, laughter, and wonder. If a story makes your child laugh out loud, ask a big question, or hug you tighter… that’s a book worth having on the shelf.

Thanks for being here. Thanks for believing in stories that matter.

Gently,

With love,

Liv McLeanChildren’s Author & Illustratorwww.LivMcLean.com