Kusa's Big Surprise! - Paperback

by Kathy Iorio (Author), Chris Schroeder (Illustrator)

Sometimes the biggest surprise is discovering how special you already are!

Kusa is a kindhearted young elephant who admires her loving older sister and dreams of being just like her. Eager to help, Kusa sets off across the savanna, lending a hand to friends who encounter problems along the way.

But when Kusa suddenly finds herself facing a problem of her own, she isn't sure what to do. With support from her friends-and her mom and dad-Kusa discovers that even a caring helper sometimes needs help too.

Kusa's Big Surprise! is a heartfelt, playful picture book about kindness, family, friendship, self-confidence, and celebrating what makes each of us unique. Ideal for ages 5-7 and K-1 classrooms, this social-emotional learning story encourages children to believe in themselves while recognizing that giving-and receiving-help are both acts of strength.

Bonus reflection questions, fascinating animal facts, and a fun find-the-critter game help parents, teachers, counselors, and caregivers extend the conversation, discovery, and fun.

Part of Kusa & Friends-"Stories that grow kind hearts, brave voices, and confident minds."

Kusa's Big Surprise! received First Place (tie) in Growing Pains, Second Place (tie) in School Issues, and Honorable Mentions in Best Illustrations, Early Readers, and Picture Books-6 Years and Older in the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards. It is also part of the International Firebird Book Award-winning Kusa & Friends Children's Picture Book Series.

A little kindness, a helping hand, and one very big surprise can show us how wonderful it is to be ourselves!

"As a former elementary school teacher for decades, I find the lessons taught in this book to be invaluable and very relevant. I highly recommend this book!"

Patricia Visnosky, Teacher

"My children were captivated by Kusa and the colorful illustrations! The talking points make such an engaging and educational experience. It has become a family favorite!"

Sarah Hale, R.D., Parent