Identity. It’s something we think we understand—our name, our past, the face staring back at us in the mirror. But what if that isn’t the whole story? What if who we are is more fluid than we realize?
Over two years ago, I began a personal experiment to explore this very question. How much of our identity—both how we see ourselves and how others perceive us—is shaped by our appearance?
A Two-Year Journey of Transformation
During this period, I documented my physical changes while reciting a monologue I’d written, titled What is Identity?. I kept the background and shirt the same to ensure that the only variable in this project was my outward appearance.
You’ll see every step of this journey: from the beginning to the end, with all the changes and “in-between” moments that reveal how much—or how little—changed beneath the surface.
This visual record captures more than just physical shifts; it raises deeper questions about how much of our identity is internal versus external.
The Question at the Heart of It All
As I reflected on this process, one question stayed with me: How much did I really change? How much of my true self shifted beneath these outward changes?
This video series is an invitation to question the nature of identity. How much of our sense of self is defined by how others perceive us versus what we know inside?
This exploration has always been at the heart of my writing. Identity isn’t just a personal question—it’s a recurring theme in the stories I tell:
In Outside In, a man becomes his opposite to understand who he truly is.
In The Investment Club, broken strangers discover that our greatest investment is often in one another.
In Focus Lost, characters confront the fine line between passion and obsession.
And in my children’s book, The Snail and The Butterfly, a young snail’s dream of flying meets an old butterfly’s reflections on purpose.
Through each of these stories, I’ve delved into the layers of identity, exploring how it shapes and connects us.
An Invitation to Reflect
This project, and the stories I’ve written, are an invitation to you. Who are we, really? How much of our identity is defined by what others see versus what we know to be true inside?
I hope you’ll join me in this exploration of self—not just through this video but also through the pages of my books. Because maybe, just maybe, the real journey of identity is one we’re all on together.
Feel free to share your reflections in the comments or connect with me on social media. Let’s explore this question of identity, together.
Dive into the whimsical world of The Snail and the Butterfly, a gem among inspirational children’s books by award-winning author Doug Cooper, also known as Dougie Coop. This captivating tale invites readers on a journey that blends profound life lessons with the whimsy and allure of adventure and the thrill of chasing dreams.
Meaningful Children’s Books Character Dynamics: Snail and Butterfly
Our adventurous snail and the skeptical butterfly depict a magical conversation about aspirations and the doubts that accompany them. This dialogue not only entertains but also teaches resilience and the value of questioning norms. The story resonates deeply with mushroom hunters and aspiring aviators of all ages, illustrating that great achievements can stem from the smallest beginnings and that persistence is key.
Give the Inspirational The Snail and the Butterfly Children’s Book as a Gift
A Date with Magic: Dive into “The Snail & The Butterfly” Virtual Event!
Ever sat down with a book and felt the world around you transform? Ever been transported into a universe filled with wonder, hope, and magic? Well, Dougie Coop and CJ the Kid are about to sweep you off your feet with their latest masterpiece, The Snail and The Butterfly.
Mark Your Calendars!
On October 25th at 7:00 PM EDT (or October 26 at 10a AEDT for our friends down under), set your alarms, brew a cozy cup of cocoa, and get ready to be teleported into a realm of inspiration. Rare Bird Books proudly presents a virtual evening dedicated to this heartwarming tale. Grab your spot here and make sure you don’t miss out!
Why This Book?
The Snail & The Butterfly isn’t just another children’s book. It’s a symphony of words and illustrations that resonates with the universal dream of soaring high, irrespective of the limitations we believe we have. Tailored for the imaginative minds aged 4–7 years, this tale is an ode to self-belief, persistence, and the magic of dreams.
Meet the Maestros: Dougie Coop and CJ the Kid
Dougie Coop isn’t a stranger to the literary world. With award-winning titles like Outside In, The Investment Club, and Focus Lost under his belt, he has ventured into the enchanting world of children’s literature. And boy, has he made an entrance! On the other hand, CJ the Kid, a name synonymous with the vibrant hues of life, has showcased his artistic brilliance throughout various platforms, from commercials and films to the mesmerizing stages of Cirque du Soleil in Vegas. His illustrations breathe life into Dougie’s words, making The Snail & The Butterfly a visual treat.
The Essence: Dream, Believe, Achieve
This isn’t just a book. It’s a beacon of hope, a testament to the fact that with a pinch of trust, a dollop of perseverance, and a heart full of dreams, even the impossible seems within reach. It’s a message every child and adult needs to hear, now more than ever.
Founded by the visionary Tyson Cornell, Rare Bird Books is a name that resonates with literary excellence. With an array of acclaimed authors and a rich legacy dating back to 2010, Rare Bird has been the wind beneath the wings of many an author’s dream.
Every book lover’s paradise, Books of Wonder, has been the heart of NYC’s literary scene since 1980. Nestled in Chelsea, it’s a haven for readers, offering a mesmerizing collection of contemporary and vintage treasures.
Ready to Dive In?
Before you join us on this magical evening, make sure to order your copy from Books of Wonder and embark on this journey with your little ones. See you on the 25th, and until then, keep believing in the magic of dreams!
Children are naturally curious beings, eager to explore the world around them. One of the most effective ways to nurture this curiosity and foster a lifelong love for learning is reading inspirational children’s books.
Children’s books, such as The Snail and The Butterfly by Author Dougie Coop, have a magical ability. They can transport readers to new worlds and spark creativity. These picture books serve as a gateway to new worlds, ideas, and possibilities.
The most widely read children’s book, Where the Wild Things Are, is a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping young minds. Stories can change a child’s life in five remarkable ways. Story books encourage curiosity and create new possibilities for personal growth and self-discovery.
1) Igniting the Imagination
Having a vivid imagination is important for a fulfilling life. It allows people to see beyond what is real and explore endless possibilities in their minds.
This ability to imagine births new opportunities and experiences. It helps individuals to think creatively and problem-solve in unique ways. Books like The Gruffalo are important for kids because they help them use their imagination. These stories take children on fun adventures with interesting characters and magical places.”
Stories like The Gruffalo spark children’s imagination, encouraging them to dream and think creatively. Children can enter a world of limitless opportunities by reading books. In this world, dragons soar through the sky and fairies dance in enchanted forests. This feeling of wonder and curiosity inspires kids to discover their creative abilities and love for storytelling and adventure.
Children are excited to read because they love going on adventures and exploring new worlds. Literature can transport readers to faraway places and introduce them to new characters and experiences. This can broaden their perspectives and enrich their understanding of the world.
Through books, readers can explore different cultures and time periods, expanding their knowledge and empathy. Literature has the ability to create new worlds and spark imagination in readers of all ages.
Inspirational stories for kids allow young readers to envision scenarios beyond their immediate surroundings, thereby expanding their mental horizons. Books such as The Feelings Book focus on emotions and relationships.
They help children understand their own feelings and those of others. These books also aid in developing emotional intelligence. Understanding and managing emotions is important for learning to understand others and getting along with people in social situations.”
2) Instilling Core Values and Morals
In a world that’s increasingly complex and sometimes confusing, teaching core values has never been more important. Picture books serve as moral compasses for young minds by instilling core values and morals.
A great book to emphasize core values and morals is Last Stop on Market Street. It shows how being kind and part of a community is important. Books encourage children to be kind and considerate. This helps to establish a solid foundation for developing their character.
These stories demonstrate to children that their actions have consequences for themselves and others. This helps them learn to be responsible from a young age. “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” is a book that teaches these valuable lessons.
Children’s books like Last Stop on Market Street feature diverse characters and cultures. This teaches children about equality and acceptance. All this provides a valuable opportunity for kids to learn about different people and ways of life.
By reading stories with diverse characters, children can develop empathy and understanding for others. This helps promote a more inclusive and accepting society. These books help children appreciate the beauty of our diverse world, promoting openness and tolerance.
3) Fostering a Love for Learning
A wonderful gift for a child is to spawn a love for learning. Books are the perfect vehicle for this journey. Books like The Watcher and The Most Magnificent Thing introduce kids to the wonders of science and innovation. This makes learning an exciting adventure of discovery for children.
These stories inspire curiosity and wonder, motivating children to ask questions and seek answers. Stories like The Mysterious Benedict Society challenge kids to solve problems and mysteries. This helps develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These books encourage children to analyze situations, think outside the box, and come up with creative solutions.
4) Building Self-Confidence and Resilience
Life is full of constant challenges for children. Books like The Little Engine That Could promote perseverance and are essential reads for building resilience. Giraffes Can’t Dance also teaches kids the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in themselves.
These stories help overcome obstacles with determination and a positive attitude. Stories that feature brave and adventurous characters inspire and teach kids to step out of their comfort zones. Learning to take calculated risks is essential for personal growth and self-discovery.
5) Creating a Strong Parent-Child Bond
Reading together is a wonderful way to create a strong parent-child bond. Setting aside time to read inspiring stories with your child educates and creates lasting memories.
The act of reading together provides quality time with your child. Together, you can engage in meaningful conversations and discussions about the stories you read. This shared experience helps to strengthen your relationship and build trust between you and your child.
It also provides an opportunity for you to bond over a common interest and create a special connection. Additionally, reading together can help improve your child’s literacy skills and foster a love for reading. So make it a habit to read together with your child and watch as your bond grows stronger with each story shared.
Quality time through reading is a precious opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories together. Engaging in discussions about the themes and lessons in books connect family members on deeper levels. This provides insights into each other’s thoughts and perspectives.
These conversations foster a sense of closeness and understanding. They also promote mutual respect within the family unit. Sharing reading experiences can become a cherished tradition that brings family members closer together and strengthens their relationships. Through these dialogues, families can explore different viewpoints, learn from each other, and grow together.
The shared understanding that comes from discussing books can create a sense of unity and bonding within the family. This enhances the overall quality of their relationships. Meaningful interactions and shared experiences enrich the family bond.
Overall, quality time reading as a family impacts the dynamics and connections within the household. This creates lasting memories for families to cherish for years to come.
Teaching Magical Life Lessons
Children’s books inspire kids to imagine, understand feelings, learn important values, love learning, and feel good about themselves. To create a magical reading experience for your child, try the five suggestions in this article.
Our recommendations for inspiring children’s books will teach resilience and create a strong parent-child bond. They range from inspiring tales that teach kindness and community to stories that ignite curiosity and critical thinking.
The widely read Where The Wild Things Are teaches kindness and community. The Little Engine That Could promotes perseverance. The new release The Snail and The Butterfly enchants readers with its rhythmic verse and transcendent story. All these examples encapsulate invaluable life lessons within the enchantment of words.
These diverse selections guarantee delightful adventures and valuable life lessons. Make reading time a cherished family tradition and embark on a journey of imagination and personal growth together.
Why “The Snail & the Butterfly” Is the Perfect Gift
Looking for a special gift that keeps on giving? Check out The Snail & the Butterfly or any of the other books mentioned before.
Children’s books are a lasting investment in kindness for a child’s future. The Snail and the Butterfly captivates both young readers and the adults in their lives with its beautiful design. This whimsical picture book adds inspiration and joy to any child’s bookshelf.
Find Inspiration Wherever Children’s Books Are Sold
The Snail And The Butterfly, published by Rare Bird Books, is available from any book retailer. Any reader interested in books about snails, butterflies, children’s inspiration, or making a difference will enjoy this inspiring tale.
Snail & butterfly merchandise like stickers, T-Shirts, and hats is also available in the Snail & Butterfly Shop. Another option to purchase fun merchandise is to visit the Author Doug Cooper Store on Amazon.
This whimsical tale is more than just a bedtime story; it’s a life lesson wrapped in colorful illustrations and enchanting words. It’s a rallying cry for dreamers, young and old, to never give up on what sets their soul on fire. As The Children’s Book Review puts it, “The Snail and the Butterfly not only entertains but also educates on the notion that dreams have no limits, and with perseverance, anything is possible.”
What’s in it for You? 🎁
Okay, here’s where it gets even cooler. We’re hosting a giveaway that you won’t want to miss! You’ve got the chance to snag a personalized, signed copy of “The Snail and the Butterfly”, a super-cute sticker sheet, and a set of pins that are both small and large but huge in awesomeness.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into this magical world and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find that dreams really do come true. 🌟
About The Children’s Book Review
Since 2008, The Children’s Book Review has provided resources for parents, grandparents, teachers, librarians, and caregivers looking to inspire children to love reading and grow their minds. Our commitment to seeking out the most delightful stories, magical illustrations, and engaging writers and artists sets us apart. We believe in being a constant source of inspiration and encouragement for everyone interested in raising readers.
Award-Winning Ohio Author Doug Cooper and Acclaimed Australian Artist CJ the Kid Release Inspirational Children’s Book – The Snail and The Butterfly
PRESS RELEASE – LOS ANGELES, CA SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA, CLEVELAND, OHIO –Rare Bird Books proudly presents The Snail & The Butterfly, a groundbreaking children’s book penned by celebrated author Doug Cooper, known in this book project as Dougie Coop, and illustrated by the talented Australian artist CJ the Kid. Scheduled for release on September 12, 2023, this enchanting tale is destined to captivate children and parents alike.
With a thirty-year journey from ideation to publication, The Snail & The Butterfly marks Cooper’s delightful expansion from literary fiction & thrillers to children’s literature. Designed for ages 2-10, the book emphasizes the importance of pursuing dreams, overcoming obstacles, and forming relationships.
A Journey of Imagination and Collaboration
In creating this heartfelt book, Dougie Coop partnered with CJ the Kid, resulting in whimsical illustrations that perfectly complement the story. Despite geographical distance and opposite time zones, their collaboration blossomed into a magical work that reflects pure imagination, freedom, and playfulness.
The Snail & The Butterfly is an exciting addition to the storied history of collaboration between Doug Cooper and Rare Bird Books. Cooper’s transformation from a writer of gripping psychological literary fiction and thrillers to an author of children’s literature is a testament to his versatile storytelling prowess.
About Artist CJ the Kid
Sydney-based artist CJ the Kid’s artistic journey started in childhood, and his collaboration with Cooper on this project has brought to life emotionally charged illustrations that resonate with all ages. The snail, butterfly, and mushroom characters featured in the picture book have been recurring figures in CJ’s work, now immortalized in this touching children’s book.
Book Details and Availability
Title: The Snail & The Butterfly
ISBN: 9781644283653
Price: US $18.00
Format: 10 x 10 in., 42 pp., Hardcover Juvenile Fiction/Animals
The Snail & The Butterfly is distributed worldwide by PGW and is available for order at local bookstores, online retailers, and wholesalers. Visit the Snail & Butterfly Shop for stickers, T-Shirts, hats, and other fun merchandise.
Address: 6044 North Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Rare Bird Books and the entire team behind The Snail & The Butterfly invite readers to embark on an adventure filled with wisdom, joy, and discovery. Don’t miss the chance to add this extraordinary creation to your collection, nurturing a love for books in young readers.
The Perfect Blend of Adventure and Education for Young Minds
Mushrooms are fascinating organisms, and there’s so much to learn about them that’s sure to pique the interest of both children and adults. Here’s five mushroom facts to forage deeper into the world of mushrooms. Whether you’re an avid mycologist or simply love to get lost in an engaging picture book with your kids, “The Snail and The Butterfly” offers a heartwarming and educational journey for all.
Five Intriguing Mushroom Facts
1. Mushrooms are More Like Animals Than Plants
Surprisingly, mushrooms are more closely related to animals than plants. Their cell walls are made of chitin, the same material found in insect exoskeletons. For kids, it’s a fun twist to think of mushrooms as something in between plants and bugs!
2. Some Mushrooms Glow in the Dark
Bioluminescent mushrooms like the “Jack O’Lantern Mushroom” or “Ghost Fungi” can actually glow in the dark. Imagine taking a nighttime walk in the woods and stumbling upon a glowing mushroom. That’s sure to intrigue both kids and adults!
While most mushrooms are decomposers, some species like the ‘Oyster Mushroom’ can paralyze and consume tiny worms. That makes them the only vegan food that can consume meat.
5. Mushrooms Can “Communicate” Through Their Mycelium Network
Through their underground network of filaments, nutrients and chemical signals can be exchanged, almost like a subterranean internet. Their vocabulary is relatively small, estimated to be only 50 words with 15-20 used frequently. Interestingly, the fungal words are similar in length to human words!
How “The Snail and The Butterfly” Fits Into the Mushroom World
Written by award-winning author Doug Cooper aka Dougie Coop, and illustrated by acclaimed Australian artist CJ the Kid, The Snail and The Butterfly introduces young readers to a world where belief, trust, and perseverance reign supreme. Available on Amazon US and published by Rare Bird Books, the story explores themes that align perfectly with the awe-inspiring world of mushrooms. The snail’s quest to soar from the top of a mushroom adds an extra layer of magic, making it a truly inspirational children’s book.
Unlock the Magic Of Mushrooms to Inspire Wonder & Curiosity
Mushrooms have always been a part of human storytelling. Teaching children how mushrooms have inspired stories can be an enchanting way to connect nature and literature. Whether it’s their unexpected biological connections, their mystical glow, their potential environmental superpowers, or their status as ancient giants, these mushroom facts are full of surprises. They’re a gateway to exploring biology, ecology, mythology, and even philosophy. The Snail and The Butterfly makes for an excellent companion on this exploratory journey. For children captivated by the magical world of fungi, this book is a must-read!
Butterflies are one of nature’s most enchanting creatures, capturing the imagination of both children and adults alike with these fascinating butterfly facts. Their delicate wings and vibrant colors are not only a visual delight but also hide some incredible secrets. Inspired by the children’s book, The Snail and The Butterfly by Dougie Coop and CJ the Kid from Rare Bird Books, we’ve compiled five fascinating butterfly facts that will surely boost your children’s curiosity.
5 Fascinating Butterfly Facts
They Need Heat to Fly: Butterflies are cold-blooded and require warmth to become active. If you’ve ever noticed a butterfly resting with its wings spread wide in the sun, it’s warming itself to prepare for flight. This unique behavior helps them gain the energy needed to flutter and dance through the air, making them an enchanting sight on sunny days.
They Have Four Wings, Not Two: Despite their delicate appearance, butterflies actually have four wings! The two on each side are so closely connected that they often appear as one. This complex wing structure enables them to execute their graceful flights and navigate through the environment with ease.
A Short Yet Beautiful Life: Some butterflies live for only a few days, while others may last a few months. This brief lifespan reminds us of the ephemeral beauty of life. The transformation from a caterpillar into a magnificent butterfly is an exciting, magical journey. What about older butterflies? Meet one aging butterfly in the story The Snail and The Butterfly. Butterflies may not live long, but they have a tremendous amount of experience to share.
Moths and Butterflies are Family: While they might seem like distant relatives, moths and butterflies are both part of the Lepidoptera family. This shared lineage is filled with intriguing similarities and differences. In the children’s book, young readers can explore these connections and develop a deeper appreciation for these winged wonders.
The Grand Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing: With an astonishing wingspan of 11 inches, the Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing is the largest butterfly in the world. Its impressive size and radiant colors make it a symbol of the diverse and spectacular world of butterflies.
The Perfect Gift: Order “The Snail and The Butterfly” Today!
The book “The Snail and The Butterfly” presents these beautiful creatures, snails, mushrooms, and more in in a delightful and inspirational way, tailored for children ages 2-10. It’s a perfect gift for young explorers eager to learn about the natural world. Through charming illustrations and engaging storytelling, Dougie Coop and CJ the Kid invite readers to join in a magical journey of discovery, filled with lessons and wonders that extend beyond the pages. Experience the joy of exploration and grab your copy today from Rare Bird Books! or visit the Snail & Butterfly Shop to purchase fun merchandise like stickers, hats, shirts, buttons, and more.
Diverse Dwellers: Snails inhabit an array of environments, from deserts to deep oceans. There are over 150,000 species of gastropods, displaying an impressive variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.
Unique Reproduction Process: Many terrestrial snails are hermaphroditic. During mating, they exchange sperm with their partners, allowing both to lay eggs. Some even use a specialized “love dart” during mating!
A Home on Their Back: The snail’s shell is more than just protection; it stores calcium and other minerals. It’s grown by the snail and can even be repaired.
Masters of Slime: Snails produce a mucus that allows them to glide over surfaces, even sharp ones! Snail slime has potential medical applications, including wound healing.
Incredibly Slow but Steady Eaters: Snails use a specialized organ called a radula, with thousands of microscopic teeth, to scrape and grind food, extracting nutrients.
The Perfect Gift: Order “The Snail and The Butterfly” Today!
Isn’t the world of snails truly fascinating? These amazing facts are just a glimpse into the magical universe created in The Snail and The Butterfly. Authored by Dougie Coop and illustrated by CJ the Kid, this children’s book is an ideal gift that inspires wonder, friendship, and a love for nature. Perfect for parents, grandparents, and gift-givers, this book encourages children to explore and appreciate the natural world’s beauty. Don’t miss out on this captivating tale that’s sure to become a family favorite! Order your copy today or visit the Snail & Butterfly Shop to purchase fun merchandise like stickers, hats, shirts, buttons, and more and take a whimsical journey with a snail and a butterfly that your children will cherish forever.
Parents play the most important role in a child’s cognitive and emotional growth. Among the tools available, an inspiring children’s book about overcoming fear and building friendships can be a magic one, nurturing their ability to navigate life’s challenges while helping them understand the value of relationships.
A Tale for Kids Ages 4-7
In The Snail And The Butterfly, an inspirational picture book for kids ages 4-7′, where a tiny snail dreams of flying and, with the support of an aging butterfly, turns this aspiration into reality. The story presents us with numerous life lessons such as dealing with fear, nurturing friendships, and pursuing dreams, embedded in a context young children can understand and appreciate.
Talking with Children About Fear
Reading with your children is a great first step. Picture books help improve your child’s brain development as a language skills accelerator, cognitive development dynamo, emotional intelligence builder, and more. Talking with children about fear and friendships and about what they are seeing and hearing magnifies those benefits and strengthens your relationship by establishing a foundation for a lifetime of conversations. Questions like, “Why did the snail keep trying to climb up the mushroom every day?” and “What did the butterfly tell the snail about her own life?” can be conversation starters. They illuminate the themes of determination and friendship in the tale, and allow children to draw parallels with their own experiences. Here are a few more questions you can ask:
“Why do you think the snail was afraid?”
“What do you think the butterfly learned from the snail?”
“What does ‘courage’ mean to you, like the snail’s courage in the story?”
Dealing with Fear and Forming Friendships
As this enchanting tale progresses, the snail, confronting and persevering through his fear, builds trust with the butterfly. Talking with children about fear & friendships with queries such as, “Why do you think the snail really wanted to fly?” or “How did the butterfly help the snail?” enables children to comprehend the importance of dealing with fear, the value of relationships, and the trust necessary to rely on others. This ‘kids book about friendship’ not only enhances their comprehension but also cultivates empathy and resilience. A few more thoughtful questions could include:
“Why was it important for the snail to believe in himself?”
“What did the butterfly teach the snail about dreams and goals?”
“Why do you think the butterfly said that ‘the rest is determined by your sight’?”
Applying Lessons to Real Life
Finally, discussing the snail’s achievement and applying these lessons to your child’s own life experiences can significantly boost their self-confidence. Remember, every question you ask serves as insight into your child’s thought process and emotional state, helping you strengthen your bond and fuel their confidence. More engaging questions could be:
“Have you ever been scared to try something new, like the snail?”
“Can you think of a time when you helped a friend, like the butterfly helped the snail?”
“What is a big goal you have, like the snail’s goal to fly?”
Inspiring Young Minds
With this magical tale of a snail and butterfly, let’s inspire our young ones to face their fears, cherish their friendships, and pursue their dreams with conviction. To assist with talking with children about fear and friendships and building these conversations, download our 10 Story Questions Infographic in PNG or PDF format. Happy reading!
In 
The Snail & The Butterfly isn’t just another children’s book. It’s a symphony of words and illustrations that resonates with the universal dream of soaring high, irrespective of the limitations we believe we have. Tailored for the imaginative minds aged 4–7 years, this tale is an ode to self-belief, persistence, and the magic of dreams.
With an array of acclaimed authors and a rich legacy dating back to 2010, Rare Bird has been the wind beneath the wings of many an author’s dream.
Before you join us on this magical evening, make sure to order your copy from 
