A rhyming read-aloud for ages 4–8 about fear, practice, and the courage to try.
By C.L. Smith & Brandi Smith • Illustrated by Kit Marro
Braven, Book One • Hardcover and Apple Books • 36 pages • ISBN 978-1-312-69742-3
Russell is the smallest crow in the tippiest top of the toppiest tree, and he has a secret: he's afraid to fly. While his brothers brag about flying to the moon, he whispers to Mama Crow that he might be a chicken.
So he hops down to the ground and practices, through rain, snow, and his brothers' teasing, for months without once leaving the ground. Then a hawk circles the nest with Mama inside, and Russell has to decide what kind of bird he really is.
Validates fears and shows courage one small step at a time.
Bouncy rhyming couplets with natural page turns for storytime.
Colorful spreads with seek-and-find details on every page.
“Some fears you should face and from others you hide, but making that choice is for you to decide.”
Mama Crow
Tap any spread to see it full size.
New words are highlighted in the story and defined right on the page, so kids can spot them, say them, and use them without stopping the read-aloud.
Illustrator
Kit Marro brings Braven’s world to life with warm palettes, gentle textures, and tiny details kids love to discover on each reread.
Her work blends storybook charm with expressive character design, perfect for helping young readers explore courage and big feelings in a safe, playful way.
“Instant bedtime favorite. My 6-year-old asked for it three nights in a row.”
“Perfect for our courage unit. Kids loved spotting little easter eggs.”
“A joyful, encouraging story with real heart.”
Hardcover
Printed to order and shipped by Lulu.com. Printing usually takes 3–5 business days, plus shipping.
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Read it tonight on iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Same full-color art and Let’s Learn words.
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