Puffel
Written by Sr. M. Gianna Casino, LIHM, and Illustrated by Nadia Izotova
A Readers’ Favorite 5-star recipient (2023), Puffel is the tale of an adorable puffin who meets some waddly, new pals! Stunned by their awesomeness, he starts questioning himself, beckoning him on a journey of discovery, imagination, and wonder. Maybe, just maybe, what makes someone special is what makes them shine.
This delightful book, based on the profound wisdom of Pope St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, will captivate young minds and hearts!
Hardback: $19.95 | Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $7.99
Reviews
Liley, R.C. (February 2, 2024). “Embracing Uniqueness: A Puffin Bird’s Journey of Self-Discovery.” Going-Dad.com. Click here to read the review.
TESTIMONIALS
“Both of Sister’s books, Puffel and I Talk to God about You, moved me to tears…I will definitely be reading these to my grandchildren!” – Johnette Williams, EWTN radio and TV host, Founder of Women of Grace
“My class LOVED Puffel!” – Mrs. Grey, 2nd Grade Teacher at Sacred Heart Elementary, AL
“In the midst of our culture of confusion in terms of identity comes a children’s book that provides clarity with sweetness.” – Cristina, Therapist at Holy Family Counseling, GA
“In Puffel, Sister M. Gianna Casino teaches young readers about their individual dignity and unique gifts that make them special. Through this beautifully illustrated, heartwarming story, readers learn about how our differences can make us stronger when we work together. With a special emphasis on these gifts from God, Sister Gianna shares this wisdom in a way that young Catholics can easily understand. Puffel is a story that both parents and children will love! “ – E. G. Enga, author of The Children of the Chapel and the First Christmas
“Puffel’s parents play an important role during his discovery, representing the support and approbation that everyone requires. This book is great for both children and adults because many readers struggle to grasp that what makes people shine is their distinctiveness.” – Laura Imaz, Readers’ Favorite
“At a time when so many of our young people struggle with self-acceptance, this book conveys the beautiful truth that each of us is wondrously made. The book is so skillfully illustrated, I envision young readers returning to it again and again for comfort and consolation.” – Maria Gallagher, author of Mercy’s Power, Host of Lifelines Radio, Contributor to Catholic Mom Blog
“I so very much enjoyed reading Puffel that I took a trip to the St. Louis Zoo to see the Penguin and Puffin House. Written for younger children, Puffel is an allegory about loving oneself in a world where that’s becoming harder every day. It’s the kind of story that can provide everyone with a little more hope!” – Eva Mahfood, high school student at Montessori Adolescent Program in St. Louis
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sr. Mary Gianna Casino, a missionary of the Leaven of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, desired to become a nun from the age of 5. With a unique blend of perspectives as a Catholic sister, educator, and counseling student, her writings have appeared in Augustine Institute’s FORMED Newsletter, One Voice Magazine, and Columbia Magazine. She holds degrees in Philosophy and Theology from Holy Apostles College & Seminary, currently pursues a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Divine Mercy University and is a postgraduate trainee of School & Global Mental Health at Harvard Medical School. Sister taught at several schools including Don Manuel Rivera National High School in the Philippines, Sacred Heart Elementary, and St. Bernard College Prep School in Cullman, Alabama. As a member of the Society of Catholic Social Scientists, Sr. Gianna aims to integrate her community’s mission of forming the young, to better address society’s pressing spiritual needs. She and her sisters host a children’s YouTube series “LIHMposts” and the podcast “Young Davids: Change the Trend.” In reaching the hearts of today’s generation, they strive to make the teachings of the Catholic faith accessible and enjoyable.
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Nadia Izotova is a children’s book illustrator from Russia and currently resides in Serbia. As a little girl, Nadia was passionate about drawing. At her mother’s house, there is a folder brimming with drawings from kindergarten, school, and art school. Although Nadia graduated from university as an engineer, she never forgot her artistic passion. She rediscovered her love for drawing while reading books to her son. Nadia has spent the past few years realizing her dream of being a children’s book illustrator. She mainly works digitally using Procreate, drawing inspiration from real life to create cute, funny and captivating characters. Beyond her art, Nadia enjoys spending time with her family, savoring moments alone, exploring nature, traveling, and indulging in reading. She firmly believes that a good book not only stays on a shelf but also leaves an indelible impression on the soul.
Click to download the coloring guides and Letter to Puffel below.
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