My Magic Wings

Illnesses, surgeries, and even wellness checks can be overwhelming for children. "My Magic Wings" is written to help encourage and support young children and their families through serious illness and hospitalization. Children will follow the main character, Anya, through her experiences in the hospital and will be captivated by the colorful illustrations throughout the book. Although this story deals with a serious subject, it also aims to create a dreamlike space full of enchantment and wonder to help draw away some of the stress of a family's current situation.

Readers will join Anya as she interacts with the nurse, doctor, and her friends. Author Christina Walker has masterfully written this book to stimulate conversation between children and their family members and to help young children to express their different emotions around being in the hospital or not feeling well. This story emphasizes that the earlier the child is able to feel, identify, or name the emotion they are feeling, the sooner they may be able to process the entire situation – preventing it from being stuck in the child's body or mind and clearing the way to let go of any residual fear or negative lasting effects.

Christina is a Family Nurse Practitioner who has worked in health care for over twenty five years. She has held a variety of positions between hospitals and clinics and has a passion for creating stories for children to explore their feelings and ultimately feel empowered. She lives in northern California with her husband where they are the proud aunt and uncle to many nieces, nephews and godchildren.Rachel Barbee is an educator and illustrator whose art is inspired by the simple and ethereal beauty of nature. The births of Rachel's two sons have sparked in her a particular interest in catching meaningful stories for kids and bringing them to life in colorful, curious ways. When she's not making art, she can be found trail running and camping with her husband and young kids out of their home base in Ashland, Oregon.