Finding Belonging: Rudy’s Journey to Self-Discovery
“Rudy & Leo” is about a red bird named Rudy who is coming to terms with his identity. Not knowing where he belongs or what he’s about gives him anxiety. That is until he meets Leo.
The Struggle and Strength of Self-Identity
I’m a dad with neurodiverse teenaged sons. Identity is an important aspect of the human experience. We all go through it, and for some, it’s much easier than for others. Self-identity issues can lead to depression, destructive behavior and low self-esteem. Poor self-realization can be the seed for anxiety in adulthood. This book is for all those individuals who need support at this time in their lives. Being different can be a source of strength and inspiration. It could be what grounds their feeling of self-worth.
A Loving Guide for Early Self-Discovery
This is a children’s book for young children who are discovering themselves, and it illustrates the importance of a supportive, loving environment. This book is appropriate for ages 3 to 8 years, or when the child is self-realizing. Some start asking questions about the world around them at 3 years, others at 6 years. This book shows that love is a powerful force that can heal, support, and guide.
The Power of Supportive Relationships and Valuing Uniqueness
I hope readers are able to see that a supportive environment can encourage curiosity and personal growth. The book is intended for all families who value knowledge and read to their children. My books especially target the relationships between fathers and their children, though not expressly mentioned in this storyline. There is a need for strong, healthy father-child relationships, and reading to them, and allowing children to see different experiences and situations encourages empathy, which can foster confidence, teaching courage and respect. I hope readers will learn that everyone is different, but that it’s these differences that make them unique. In this book, uniqueness is a value. Valuing differences fosters respect for others. It values the perspectives of different cultures, ethnicities, genders, races, and orientations.
Promoting Love, Respect, and Belonging Through Storytelling
My future plans are to promote the story of “Rudy & Leo,” and my other books, hoping to bring a different perspective to children’s storytime. It’s never too early to teach love, respect, and the value of belonging.
From Inspiration to Creation: A Journey of Storytelling and Advocacy
I was inspired to create children’s books when my boys were toddlers. They were always so quiet and peaceful at storytime. But they preferred the stories I made up. Life has a way of getting in the way. It wasn’t until they were teenagers that I had the time and opportunity. I have an art direction background in advertising but now work in the healthcare field, championing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at the organization. The world is better when we include everyone, listen to their voices, and provide dignity and grace. The richer our communities become and the fuller our lives when we open our doors and hearts to others.
This book is available at Barnes & Noble, and Amazon. Just search Johnny A. Riedling
