Books by Michael

I write children’s books for the same reason I do most things in my life—with care, curiosity, and a deep belief in kindness.

My first children’s book, The Caterpillar and the Butterfly, began with a simple idea: that fear is something we all experience, and that it doesn’t have to define us. The story introduces young readers to a caterpillar named Fear, who is afraid of almost everything—storms, bullies, unfamiliar places, and making new friends. When Fear meets a wise butterfly named Faith, he begins to understand that courage isn’t about being fearless. It’s about discovering the strength that already lives inside you. The message I hoped to offer children is simple and reassuring: fear is just faith turned inside out.

That same spirit continues in A Garden of Flowers, a sequel that celebrates diversity, individuality, and belonging. When the garden’s flowers fall into conflict, the butterfly Faith returns to help them see one another more clearly. Each flower is different, and each is essential. The story reminds young readers that our differences are not something to fear or smooth away—they are what make the world vibrant, interesting, and whole. After all, if all our colors were the same, there would be no rainbows.

Writing for children has reinforced what I believe at every stage of life: that empathy can be learned, that fear can be met with gentleness, and that joy grows when we feel seen and accepted. These stories are small offerings, meant to help children—and the adults who read alongside them—move through the world with a little more courage, openness, and wonder.

In many ways, these books are simply another expression of Happily Ever Always™: an invitation to live with intention, to choose kindness, and to believe that even the smallest lives—and moments—carry something meaningful to share.