Sophie and the Swans - by Holly Peppe (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

2024 Family Choice Award Winner

2024 Purple Dragonfly Award tied First Place Charity/Making a Difference category

A portion of proceeds for the book will be donated to anti-bullying advocates

Sophie is a little girl who lives beside a lake and makes friends with a pair of swans who visit her every day. One day, when a bully starts to torment the swans, Sophie rushes to defend them not by attacking the bully, but by showing him kindness when he gets into trouble on the lake.

Review Quotes

"A beautiful story about the love of nature and the power of being your best, with kindness and respect. A reminder for us all that love is the only way."

-DJ Khaled, Music Producer, Artist, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Father (wethebestfoundation.org)

"Sophie, the main character in this gently instructive parable, provides a valuable example for young readers when she doesn't shy away from a boy who acts like a bully. Even more important, when she is presented with the possibility of helping him, she does! She's a valuable role model for both children and adults."

-Richard Branson, Entrepreneur, Author, "Grandude" of five

"Children often learn by example. This book gives them a blueprint for responding to other children who act like bullies. It's a story for students of any age, especially those just starting school and learning to interact with their peers."

-Malik Yoba, Father, Actor, Entrepreneur

"Schools across the country are dealing with the challenges of SEL (social-emotional) issues their students currently face, including bullying. Sophie and the Swans is a refreshing reminder that books can provide the North Star that today's students and educators need."

-Linda Law, Reading Specialist, Elementary School teacher, Mother of two

"Swans and children, the main characters in this engaging book, both teach us gentle lessons about the healing power of love and kindness."

-Holly Branson, Chief Purpose and Vision Officer at Virgin, Mother of three

"It's important to teach our children to have compassion toward all who live on earth. This story shows young readers how to respond to bullying not with anger but with kindness."

-Patrick Moore, President, Animal Nation Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Center (animalnation.org)