Dawson struggles with overwhelming emotions that often lead to explosive reactions, whether it's anger at bedtime, excitement with friends, or panic over a spilled shirt. His journey highlights the challenges of managing strong feelings like sadness, excitement, and worry. As he navigates these emotional ups and downs, the story explores how supportive adults can guide him in learning to express and control his feelings in a healthy manner, ultimately questioning whether he can take charge of his emotions or if they will dominate his life.
Julia Cook Book order (chronological)
Julia Cook, an author and counselor, crafts stories to teach children problem-solving skills. Her work actively engages young people in fun, memorable narratives designed to foster lifelong problem-solving abilities. Cook draws inspiration from her experiences with children and attentive listening to counselors, parents, and teachers to understand the needs within classrooms and homes. She possesses an innate ability to enter a child's worldview through her storybooks, equipping them with both 'what to say' and 'how to say it.'






Charlie embarks on an adventurous journey to become an official Rescue Dog, supported by his friends. As he faces various obstacles, he discovers six Bounce Back Superpowers that empower him to overcome challenges and maintain his determination. This story emphasizes resilience and teamwork, showcasing the importance of perseverance in achieving one's goals.
Decibella and Her 6-Inch Voice
Volume 2
Decibella struggles with her loud voice, causing chaos in various settings like classrooms and movie theaters. Her journey toward understanding the importance of adjusting her volume begins when a thoughtful teacher introduces her to the whimsical term "Slurpadoodle" and the concept of five different voice levels. This playful approach helps her learn when to use a softer voice, ultimately guiding her to navigate social situations more effectively.
Herman Jiggle feels like he's different from the other kids. He thinks his hair is too spikey. His shoes are too clunky. And his teeth don't even wiggle! Herman wants to be like everyone else and will try anything to fit in. If that means gluing down his hair, he'll do it. If that means giving up his favorite pair of shoes, he'll do it. He will even try taking out his tooth the hard way if it gives him a hole like the ones his friends have. Luckily, Herman's mom is there to teach him how to celebrate his own uniqueness by just being who he is: "Don't compare your insides to other people's outsides. If you are happy with yourself, you will always find a way to fit in." 'Herman Jiggle, Just Be YOU!' is a heartwarming tale about learning to accept yourself and includes special tips for parents and educators on how to help children celebrate and love what makes them unique.--Publisher
Is Dawson really awesome? He doesn’t look so awesome when he bursts into tears because he’s not first in line for a bubble gum ice cream cone. Or when he cries his eyes out because he’s behind the crowd at the gorilla habitat. Or when he pouts because he can’t be line leader at school. Or when he’s blubbering because he’s not the first one to use the bubble-blowing wand. It seems like the only thing awesome about Dawson is his ability to cry! If he can’t go first, see first or be first, he wails and whines. If Dawson really wants to be awesome, the whining and the waterworks have to stop. But is that enough to prove his awesomeness, or does he need to show a bit more patience, fairness, and empathy too? With playful rhymes and illustrations, Awesome Dawson, It Is NOT Your Turn! is an amusing tale about learning how to share and take turns. A special tips page written specifically for parents and educators offers valuable suggestions on helping children stretch their patience muscle and strengthen their self-control.
Don't Be Afraid to Drop!
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Hopp the raindrop struggles with fear of change and prefers his safe, predictable life. Through his journey, he discovers that remaining in his comfort zone restricts his ability to make a positive impact on others. This story imparts valuable lessons about embracing a growth mindset and the importance of trying new things, encouraging children to step outside their comfort zones and explore new possibilities.
I IN INTEGRITY
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Cora June is back, and this time she’s learning a thing or two about doing the right thing – even when no one is looking! When Cora June half-heartedly cleans her room by taking a shortcut, Mom is quick to ask her about her integrity. Not really knowing what it means, Cora June assumes it’s probably hidden under her bed, or in her closet. She continues to school, where she cheats on a spelling test. “Impossible” is a hard word to spell, can you blame her? During her test, she finds that integrity pops up again. Again, it’s probably under her bed. Right? When Cora June learns what integrity means, she realizes that she can’t find hers! Fortunately, her mom is there to help her put the “I” (the “ME!”) in integrity. Follow Cora June as she learns about her integrity, and see if she can use it to right what she did wrong. Another hit for award-winning author and parenting expert Julia Cook, this book is part of The Leader I’ll Be series and will teach children in grades K through 5 the importance of self-reliance. Integrity is a collection of virtues such as honesty, honor, courage, authenticity, respect, responsibility, and restraint – included at the end of the story are tips for parents and educators to help reinforce these values.
HERMAN JIGGLE ITS RECESS NOT RESTRESS
- 34 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Herman Jiggle has something he wants to say. He doesn’t like recess anymore. And it’s NOT because he’s kinda sorta shy. Herman is frustrated because recess isn’t fun when other kids do things that make it not fun. Like, when you play tag, it isn’t supposed to hurt. Or when you play on the playground, you aren’t supposed to wind up getting woodchips dumped on your head. And it isn’t very fair when kids change the rules so that they are the ones who always win. Herman’s caring teacher decides to help all the children understand the importance of following rules and procedures – at recess and other places too. Will Herman see the value in getting fresh air and moving your body? Will he be able to find ways to have fun, not stress, at recess? Award-winning author, educator, and parenting expert Julia Cook offers a story to which every Pre-K - 5 teacher and student will relate. Remarkable illustrations by New York Times best-selling author and illustrator Michael Garland will capture and keep the reader’s attention.
It has the silliest name ever - Unicorn YAK! This super-sweet slushy is made with cotton candy, topped with sprinkles, and is the most awesome treat Cora June has ever tasted! She can't wait to have another one... and that's the problem. When Mom promises to take Cora June to the Slushy Shack after school, Cora can't think about anything else. She stares at the clock, impatiently counting down every second of the school day. She causes a ruckus in the classroom when her excitement spills out in the open, and she has mini-meltdowns when Mom arrives late and the line at the Slushy Shack is painfully long. Then, when Cora finally gets to the counter to order her sweet treat, she gets the crushing news: All Unicorn Yak slushies are sold out. If she wants one, she has to come back another day! Will Cora June have the strength to flex her patience muscle or will her disappointment turn into a sticky, sorry mess? Good Things Come to Those Who Wait is from The Leader I'll Be! book series and told in author Julia Cook's distinctive rhythmic style and delivers powerful lessons on how to practice patience, stay calm, and make good choices. A great read for children in grades Pre-K through 6. Included are tips for parents and educators to help teach the skill of patience. 31 pgs.
I Have Ants in My Pants
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The story revolves around Louis, a boy who struggles to control his constant wiggling and impulsive behavior, often leading to accidents like kicking a friend. His mother introduces him to the concept of "ants in his pants," symbolizing his restlessness, and teaches him the Wiggle Dance—a series of movements to help manage his energy. Through practice and guidance, Louis discovers effective strategies to calm himself, ultimately gaining control over his wiggles and learning to navigate social situations more successfully.
Rodney Meets A Dog for the First Time
- 20 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Rodney, a mischievous tabby cat with a distinctive hooked tail, embarks on various adventures in the picturesque countryside. His insatiable curiosity leads him into trouble, much to the chagrin yet amusement of his owners, Mr. and Mrs. Appleyard. The story highlights Rodney's escapades and his talent for finding himself in precarious situations, showcasing the charm and challenges of life with a spirited feline.
HERMAN JIGGLE GO TO SLEEP
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Why is it that when bedtime arrives, THAT’S the time children’s curiosity seems to peak? Well, at least that’s the case with Herman Jiggle. It’s bedtime, and as Mom helps Herman get ready, he has countless questions, like Why does the sun go away? Where does honey come from? Or, I have a best friend Charlie who can blow big bubbles. How do you make bubble gum? Mom’s patience is on point as she masterfully guides Herman through his bedtime routine, embracing his curiosity while reminding him of what comes next. This sweet story is part of the Socially Skilled Kids picture book series told in Julia Cook’s classic style. Young children in grades K through 5 will enjoy learning along with Herman, and their parents and caretakers will be laughing and nodding the whole time! When kids don't get enough sleep, they can become irritable, anxious, and even depressed. Over time, sleep deprivation can lead to the onset of behavior problems, an inability to control emotions, attention and learning difficulties, and even childhood obesity. Putting your child to bed at night and getting them to stay there can be a challenge. Included at the end of the story are tips for parents and caregivers to help ensure your children are getting adequate amounts of sleep.
HERMAN JIGGLE SAY HELLO
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
My story about talking to new people when my words always get stuck.
Making Friends is an Art
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Multi-talented Brown is the luckiest pencil in the box! In this fun, creative story, Brown learns that in order to make and keep friends, he needs to know how to be a good friend. And to be a good friend, Brown must find a way to share his many talents with others. At first, that seems hard to Brown. But he soon realizes that to be a good friend, all he has to do is be himself! Making Friends Is an Art! is part of the popular Building Relationships series written by award-winning author Julia Cook. This is a wonderful story for teaching kids of all ages how to practice the true art of friendship and getting along with others. Educators, counselors and parents will love reading the second edition of this very popular story with children which features fewer words and more positive, empowering messaging. Brown and his friends learn to recognize their talents by being true to themselves. Making Friends Is an Art! is the recipient of the prestigious Mom's Choice Award. Tips for educators and parents are located at the end of the story to help further address the importance of being a good friend.
The story introduces Bubble Gum Brain and Brick Brain, two children embodying contrasting mindsets. Through their journey, readers discover the important lesson that the process of becoming is more valuable than simply being, encouraging both kids and adults to embrace growth and explore new possibilities.
Teach children to stop making excuses and blaming others when they make mistakes. Elementary school kids will identify with Noodle as he makes one excuse after another for his behavior and choices that lead to unwanted consequences. It just isn’t his fault that his brother’s game ran late, and he didn’t finish his homework. Or that his mom forgot to remind him to turn in his library book. By learning to accept responsibility he finds instead how to use mistakes as opportunities for problem-solving and to turn negatives into positives. This is the first title from award-winning author Julia Cook in the Responsible Me! series which strengthens character development and helps kids use better social skills at school and at home. 32 pages
Decibella and Her 6-Inch Voice
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Spunky, spirited Isabella is always shouting out her every thought, idea, and feeling.She loves using her loud voice so much, everyone calls her "Decibella!" But that's not a nickname to brag about. Isabella's so loud, she interrupts class and irritates others. She doesn't know how or when to use a softer, quieter voice until her teacher introduces the "five volume" of voice - 6-inch, Whisper, Table-Talk, Strong Speaker, and Outside. Learning how and when to use each voice is made a lot more fun when Isabella is told to practice by saying aloud the word "Slurpadoodle!"Award-winning author Julia Cook's creative storytelling, coupled with eye-pleasing illustrations, help K through 6 readers learn and remember what voice volume to use when speaking in class, chatting in the library, sitting at the lunch table, or playing outside.Decibella and Her 6-inch Voice is the second book in the author's popular Communicate with Confidence book series which gives children a fun to learn to be better communicators with the importance in using different volumes of their voice in different situations.Communicate with Confidence book series also includes other great storybooks written by Julia Cook!.
Thanks for the Feedback, I Think?
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
When a couple of friends give RJ a compliment, he just isn't sure how to respond. When his teacher and parents tell him there are some things he needs to work on, his first reaction is to argue and make excuses. RJ learns what it means to receive positive and negative feedback, and how to respond appropriately, learning to accept and grow from criticism and compliments at home, school and with friends.--Publisher.
I Just Want to Do It My Way!
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
RJ’s way of doing things isn’t working out for him, especially in math class. His teacher is upset because so many of his assignments are missing or incomplete. RJ blames Norma “the booger picker” and Rodney “the alphabet burper” for distracting him during class. With support from his mom and dad, RJ learns how to ask for help and stay on task. By learning how to do things the right way the first time, RJ discovers he no longer has to do his work over and over and over again.
I just don't like the sound of NO!
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Shows readers the steps to the fundamental social skills of accepting "no" and disagreeing appropriately. When RJ learns to use these skills the right way, he finds that rewards come his way, instead of arguments.
Soda Pop Head
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Lester, who has a bad temper, learns about anger management from his dad.
When RJ learns to use such skills as listening and following instructions, he has the best day of his life.
My Mouth Is a Volcano
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The story explores the journey of Louis, who is known for constantly interrupting others. Through his experiences of being interrupted in return, he discovers the importance of patience and the value of listening. This engaging narrative teaches children about respect and communication skills, highlighting the significance of waiting for one's turn to speak.




