BY LAVELLE CARLSON
Literary figures have known throughout history the vulnerabilities of little children. Writers have also understood throughout centuries how words can either hurt or help readers and listeners. How has literature changed for the better in helping parents to understand how to protect their children from predators?
Think Little Red Riding Hood serving its purpose to tell of the wolf danger. This may not have carried over to show that humans can be predators. And it was frightening.
“Once Wally is safe his friend and rescuer, Major Mitchell the cockatoo, explains in simple sentences how to stay safe.”
Based on the present-day knowledge of professionals, books are now being written that allow gentle and effective talk on dangers that some young children face. Do Not Snuggle with a Puggle is a new book that does exactly that. It uses friendly Australian animals and a couple of not-so-friendly animals in which the author and illustrator are able to guide the young naïve Wally Wallaby safely home to his parents. Once Wally is safe his friend and rescuer, Major Mitchell the cockatoo, explains in simple sentences how to stay safe.
Yes, there is danger in Wally’s travels, but he has friends and parents along the way to guide him to safety. The delightfully illustrated book ends with Major Mitchell cockatoo leading parents in a much-needed discussion with their children on personal safety.
About the Author
Lavelle Carlson was born in Texas and lived in England and Norway for ten years. Following her return from overseas, she received her Master’s in the field of speech/language pathology. During her career, she worked with a variety of special children. These children as well as her grandchildren have been her inspiration for writing books. Her storybooks are written to entertain and teach early reading concepts.
