The Mouse, Monster and Me and Liking Myself Children’s Books Review & Giveaway

Classic Children’s Books Back By Popular Demand

Over thirty years ago, Pat Palmer and Louise Hart met at their first graduate school class in Greeley, Colorado. At the time, Pat was the founder and director of the Assertiveness Training Institute of Denver; Louise was a “displaced homemaker” pursuing a career. Pat’s penchant for speaking her mind came as a shock to Louise, who had never before met an assertive woman. Pat took her under her wing, and gave her a scholarship; it changed her life.

Pat’s dissertation, on teaching assertiveness from an early age, was published as two children’s books—Liking Myself, and The Mouse, the Monster and Me—that became international bestsellers in six languages. They were hand lettered, uniquely designed, and charmingly illustrated on traditional elementary school paper. Then, ten years ago, these powerfully written favorites went out of print in the U.S. Many were upset that these beloved books were no longer available for children and grandchildren, students and clients.

The Mouse, the Monster and Me focuses on the importance of finding a balance between one’s aggressive inner “monster” and one’s passive inner “mouse”. Children quickly grasp the metaphor and discover their assertive “me” self. Readers readily identify these behaviors in themselves and others. Other issues include: getting in touch with your own strengths; respect, rights, and responsibilities; how to say “no” to trouble; receiving criticism and compliments; and being yourself.

“Practice, with a friend or family member, assertive ways to ask. Remember…to stand or sit up straight …to look at the other person …to talk in a normal (not whining or shouting) voice …and to be honest and direct. It’s OK to ask for what you want. (But don’t expect to always get it.)”

Liking Myself offers advice on how to handle oneself when feeling depressed, upset, or overwhelmed. Topics include: liking yourself, feeling talk, allowing, letting go, and body talk.

“Feelings are good friends. Feelings can let us know what is happening, what we want, what is important to us…. They tell you when you need to take care of yourself, like finding a friend if you feel lonely, crying if you feel sad, singing and smiling if you feel happy, and acting frisky if you feel good.”

Although they are written for children, when parents also read and do the exercises, both learn new skills that improve family relationships. Straight-forward, down to earth and easy to understand, they can be helpful for children with special needs.

My daughter is a little too young to understand these books right now.  She is such a visual person too and there is not much imagery in the books as they are simply made.  Older children could definitely understand the messages conveyed and parents are able to talk with the child and reflect on each chapter.

These books are $12.99 each and you can purchase them at Amazon.

Want to win a copy of each book of your own?  Find out how to enter below.  (Note that you will receive a set of our review copies.)  Also, be sure to check out our other giveaways HERE.