
Sarah and Her Twirling Toes
Sarah loves how screaming makes her feel. Her tonsils tickle. Her tummy dances. Best of all, her toes twirl! But one day, Sarah’s scream disappears…
Soon, it’s not just her scream that’s gone—Sarah can’t make a sound. Worried, her mom takes her to the doctor. The diagnosis? Screamingitis Syndrome! The cure? Complete silence for three whole days! No way!
With creativity, determination, and her signature sparkle, Sarah discovers creative ways to express herself. And she learns something truly important: her unique sparkle doesn’t depend on a scream—it comes from her.
With whimsical watercolor illustrations and playful text by Dawn Marie Hooks—artist, teacher, and mom—Sarah and Her Twirling Toes is a joyful read-aloud for ages 5–8, perfect for homes, classrooms, or anywhere brave hearts grow.
Inspired by Sara Brown, a spirited girl with autism who loved screaming and reminded those around her that joy, identity, and expression can take many forms.Sarah loves how screaming makes her feel. Her tonsils tickle. Her tummy dances. And, best of all, her toes twirl! But one day, Sarah’s scream disappears …
Part of the Brave Little Hearts Series, which honors the everyday courage of children as they face life’s joys, questions, and challenges.
Collect all the titles:
• I’ll Hold You Forever: An Adoption Story
• Grandpa Can: A Story of Hope in the Midst of Illness
• Sarah and Her Twirling Toes
• Catching Waves: A Board, a Pig, and How a Little Girl Became a Wakesurf Champion
For Parents, Teachers, and Librarians
Find teaching ideas in this Discussion and Activity Guide for Sarah and Her Twirling Toes, P-2nd grade.
Blog Tour & Giveaway
April 3rd, 2016 Blog review and giveaway on A Rup Life
April 12th, 2016 Blog review and giveaway on A Bada Bing
April 17th, 2016 Guest post on Unleashing Readers
More Books

Catching Waves
This true story about how little Raleigh Hager became the youngest professional wakesurf world champion will inspire little kids to DREAM BIG, face challenges, and keep riding the waves of life. From the moment little Raleigh popped up on a surfboard at five years old, the waves held her heart. She couldn’t imagine anything as …more

Grandpa Can
“Grandpa, you are my best friend. Please don’t ever let that end.” Ana’s heart breaks when she learns that Grandpa is sick. There are changes, but the two of them discover new adventures. Join Ana and Grandpa on a journey filled with love, hope, and the beauty of creating cherished memories. Featuring playful couplets and …more

Sarah and Her Twirling Toes
Sarah loves how screaming makes her feel. Her tonsils tickle. Her tummy dances. Best of all, her toes twirl! But one day, Sarah’s scream disappears… Soon, it’s not just her scream that’s gone—Sarah can’t make a sound. Worried, her mom takes her to the doctor. The diagnosis? Screamingitis Syndrome! The cure? Complete silence for three whole …more

I’ll Hold You Forever: An Adoption Story
A touching story about the beauty of adoption and the warmth of a mother’s love. “Mommy, are you my real mom?” Mommy answers the question with the story of the child’s adoption. Soon the child is reassured that her mom is real and will hold her forever. Through simple, engaging text and charming watercolor illustrations, …more

Can Kate See?
Will Kate convince Hannah she can play catch even though she is blind? This story follows Kate through her day at school as she explains to Hannah how she sees through touching, smelling, tasting, and hearing. A brief section at the end of this book contains information and engaging activities to teach preschool through third …more

Oh, Cookie!
“Oh, Cookie! You are such a mischievous pet, who sniffs for some goodies to get.” Charming illustrations and four types of poetry create silly stories about a mischievous dog named Cookie. Animal lovers, ages 3-8 will laugh out loud as they read at Cookie’s antics. A wonderful resource for parents and teachers, this book contains …more