My Path - by Jana Curll (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A joyful, empowering celebration of finding your path with an adorable snail protagonist-- follow the snail's sparkly silver trail on every page!

In this charmingly illustrated picture book, a little snail sets off to find its path. There are mountains to climb, rushing rivers to cross, and sometimes the journey ahead seems impossible. But listening to their inner voice, this determined snail keeps going.

Follow this adventurous snail as they decide not to follow the crowd and face unexpected challenges. This inspiring journey will help young readers see that even the smallest creature can find their unique way forward.

Includes a free Nosy Crow Stories Aloud(R) audiobook! Scan the code, hear the story.

Review Quotes

A tiny snail contemplates the journey that is life.
A purple snail with a bright yellow shell peeks out from a log at sunrise. "I know it's time to start my day and get on my path." The intrepid narrator looks directly at readers with eager eyes and explains, "You can join me on my path if you want to. Let's see where it takes us." Through pebbled ground ("Sometimes I have to go very slowly and very carefully"), across a dense forest ("Sometimes my path is empty and lonely"), and once even interrupted by a cliff's edge ("Sometimes my path seems to end very suddenly. This is unexpected. But I make a decision"), the snail moves assuredly forward. Showcasing life's unexpected twists and turns, the gastropod imparts life lessons along the way. When a wide river looms, the protagonist shares some sage advice: "It's ok to ask for help." The yellow shell is a spot of hope as the snail moves across the pages in this tale that's equal parts introspective and heartening. The smudgy illustrations match the meditative mood. The very young likely won't understand all of the snail's guidance, but they'll be calmed and buoyed by the rhythm just the same.
A thoughtful road map for us all.--Kirkus Reviews

A dark-gray snail with rosy cheeks invites readers to tag along as they set out to find their path through life. Everyone has a unique direction, and the tiny creature's example encourages readers to be brave and focus on their own. As the snail explains, sometimes a path might be shared with others, but if it doesn't feel right, they'll veer off that path to follow one more suited to them. At times, a path might take them in circles or simply come to an end. Sometimes, if the venture feels lonely and fruitless, it might be prudent to stop, regroup, and start again in the search of the correct way. When seeking the best path, asking for help may be the best method. Loneliness and discouragement may show up, but remember: "The sun will rise again, and it will be time . . . to push on." Charming, richly colored illustrations reveal the tiny gastropod boldly looking for their individual path as they leaves a trail of silver behind them on each page--Maryann Owen, Booklist

"Charming, richly colored illustrations reveal the tiny gastropod boldly looking for their individual path as they leaves a trail of silver behind them on each page."
--Maryann Owen, Booklist

"A thoughtful road map for us all."--Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Jana Curll is an art director and illustrator of children's entertainment, as well the author-illustrator of several picture books. She lives with her husband, two children, and a giant long-haired black cat named Nori in British Columbia, Canada.