SBS parent and licensed therapist Jenny Hornby and SBS Alumna Madeleine (Maye) Murphy are getting ready to release their first children’s book together, Made for This, this June.
Written by Hornby and illustrated by Murphy, the children’s book “adopts a playful yet profound approach to addressing fear and anxiety through the story of a young otter named Ozzie.”
“Ozzie faces the same challenges many children face, such as comparison, feeling overwhelmed, and fearing inadequacy. With the support of his Mama and his new friend, Chip, Ozzie learns to confront his fear with compassion and kindness, discovering techniques to soothe himself and develop important coping skills,” the book description states.
Last fall, Mrs. Hornby had the opportunity to read the book draft and show Mrs. Murphy’s illustrations to Lower School students during chapel. The students enthusiastically embraced little Ozzie and how he worked through his fears.
Hornby, who has two sons at StoneBridge, is a licensed professional counselor who specializes in using play therapy, art expression, and storytelling to support children and families grappling with big feelings in a chaotic world.
Murphy is a StoneBridge graduate (Class of 2016) who went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Fine Arts and a Masters in Education with a focus on art from Lee University. She currently lives in Western Michigan with her husband where she teaches art at the elementary level.
The book is officially set to release June 17. Stay tuned to msjennybooks.com, or follow jennyrussellhornby on Instagram for updates on the release location. You can also pre-order the book today at:
