Caroline Blakeslee Releases 'Brave Like Sunny,' a Picture Book About Resilience and Medical Courage

Caroline Blakeslee, a South Carolina-based children's author, artist, and advocate for social-emotional learning, has announced the release of her debut picture book, Brave Like Sunny. Available now through the author's official website, the book tells the story of Sunny, a little dog who discovers that bravery is not about being fearless but about showing up despite fear and discomfort.

Sunny, the happiest puppy on Sweet Gum Road, loves adventures with his one blue eye for spotting butterflies and one brown eye for finding snacks. However, one morning he wakes up feeling different—tired, wobbly, and not himself. With his beloved toy Lambie tucked under his chin, Sunny visits the vet, where a kind nurse named Nonie greets him with bubbles and peanut-butter treats, reassuring him that bravery simply means showing up. Along the way, he meets a new friend, Bootsie the kitten, and learns to find laughter in hard moments, slowly rediscovering his sunshine.

Written and illustrated by Blakeslee, Brave Like Sunny is rooted in the belief that children facing illness, medical treatment, or difficult seasons deserve stories that reflect their experiences without minimizing them. The book speaks honestly about the difference between cloudy days and bright ones, about resting as its own form of bravery, and about the quiet sparkle found in laughter and perseverance. Blakeslee's watercolor and ink illustrations, rendered in her distinctive style, bring warmth and emotional depth to the story.

Blakeslee's background in studio art, art education, and psychology informs her approach. When her own health challenges made classroom teaching difficult, she turned to creating art, resulting in a book that combines real feeling with joyfully accessible storytelling. Brave Like Sunny is dedicated to brave children and adults who find light on cloudy days and to Milo, whose courage inspired the story.

The book is an ideal addition to hospital waiting rooms, pediatric care collections, school counselor shelves, and home libraries. Educators, child life specialists, librarians, and parents will find it a natural companion for conversations about medical courage, resilience, emotional regulation, and friendship. For more information, visit booksbycarolineb.com or the contact page.