What was the inspiration for writing this book? Let’s just say… if awkward childhood moments were an Olympic sport, I’d be a gold medalist. Every story in this book is inspired by real challenges I stumbled through as a kid, without a user manual, a life coach, or even a mildly interested adult in sight. I didn’t write this book because I had it all figured out back then; I wrote it because I didn’t. These stories are what I wish I had when I was trying to navigate weird vibes, social disasters, and confidence black holes with nothing but a pencil and a snack pack. If this book can help one kid skip the overthinking spiral or dodge a shame-filled ninja star, it’s done its job.

When Life Knocks You Off Your Happy: Facing Challenges for the First Time is a heart-centered guide for children ages 9–13 who are navigating the big feelings and unexpected moments that life throws their way.

While adults listening alongside may remember when they faced these life lessons for the first time, young listeners will find reassurance, insight, and the language they need to understand and express what they’re going through. From feeling left out to facing disappointment or making difficult choices, this book helps kids build emotional intelligence and resilience with compassion and clarity. To support listeners of all learning styles, this book is also available as an audiobook, ideal for children who struggle with keeping pace or staying focused. Listening while reading along helps improve attention, comprehension, and academic skills, making this an even more powerful tool for growth.

Perfect for parents, teachers, and counselors to listen with children, When Life Knocks You Off Your Happy offers meaningful conversation starters and tools to help kids feel seen, supported, and strong—especially when life gets complicated.