MAGNIFICENT MARVELOUS ME!

Although originally developed to meet the emotional needs of children whose siblings were seriously ill, autistic, or disabled, the new, expanded edition of Magnificent Marvelous Me! now addresses the needs of children that are dealing with difficult family situations such as divorce, foster care, death, etc.

The interactive book is based on principals of narrative, cognitive behavioral and art therapies and filled with engaging drawing and coloring activities, with age-appropriate questions that help the child communicate their needs. As the title hints, “Magnificent Marvelous Me!” addresses the deep-seeded need for the child to matter, and to have a place of  importance in their family structure.

BACKGROUND

After the success of both Chill & Spill and Oodles of Doodles, Art with Heart began researching to find out what other needs we could meet through our unique and therapeutic books.The need that kept rising to the top was the under-served siblings of seriously ill or special needs children (such as siblings of autistic children). We conducted a survey with children of all ages to find out what they were feeling.

First grader "Lilly" learns about empathy

After much research which confirmed this need, we began working with a group of experts on sibling issues who became our project partners and advisors. They helped us identify the issues that siblings face as well as the therapies that have been shown effective with ages 10 and under.

After compiling the therapies and translating it into kid-friendly language, we invited 47 different illustrators from all over the world to contribute their time and talent to help make this project both meaningful and visually exciting for the children. Most of these hand-picked illustrators have many children’s books, games or other projects in their portfolio, ensuring that the children would be thrilled to receive and work in the book. But most importantly, because each activity is based in therapy, it will provide them with a safe place to express themselves amidst the difficulties and uncertainty.

To purchase, please visit artwithheartshop.org.