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by Libby Grace (Author)
Jimothy and the Forest Friends
A heartwarming story inspired by the real raccoon who captured the hearts of people around the world.
Deep in the Whispering Woods lives a very special little raccoon named Jimothy. He does not move like the other raccoons. His back is shorter. Climbing takes extra time. Sometimes he slips. Sometimes he wonders why everything seems harder for him.
Even so, Jimothy never gives up.
As he explores the forest, he meets a wonderful group of friends who each have their own unique challenges and special gifts. Oliver Owl does not see with both eyes, but he hears every beautiful song in the forest. Hazel Hedgehog teaches that it is perfectly okay to rest in quiet places when the world feels too loud. Freddie Fox reminds everyone that every voice deserves patience and kindness. Benny Beaver proves there is more than one way to build something amazing. Daisy Deer, with her little round glasses, discovers tiny wonders that others often miss.
Little by little, Jimothy begins to understand an important truth. Every friend is different. Every friend faces challenges. Every friend has something wonderful to share.
Then one unexpected moment changes everything.
When a frightened baby bird becomes stranded high in an ancient oak tree, Jimothy discovers that the careful way he climbs, the very thing he once believed made him different, is exactly what allows him to help. What he once thought was a weakness becomes his greatest strength.
Inspired by the real wild raccoon known as Jimothy, this beautifully illustrated story celebrates kindness, perseverance, inclusion, empathy, friendship, courage, and belonging. Jimothy's journey is fictional, but it is lovingly inspired by a real raccoon believed by many wildlife observers to have a rare condition called Short Spine Syndrome. His determination has inspired people everywhere to look beyond appearances and celebrate every life.
Perfect for families, classrooms, libraries, counselors, and therapists, Jimothy and the Forest Friends encourages meaningful conversations about disabilities, differences, bullying, resilience, compassion, and acceptance. Thoughtful discussion questions and a family promise at the end of the book help children continue these important conversations long after the story is over.
Whether a child wears glasses, learns differently, uses a wheelchair, communicates in their own unique way, or has ever felt left out, Jimothy's story offers hope, encouragement, and a message every child deserves to hear.
You are brave.
You are important.
You are loved.
You are enough.
You belong.
Filled with beautiful woodland illustrations and unforgettable characters, Jimothy and the Forest Friends is a timeless picture book that reminds readers of all ages that kindness begins with understanding, courage grows one small step at a time, and our differences often become our greatest strengths.
Because the world is more beautiful when everyone belongs.
