Johanna Sparrow Introduces "When Maya Feels Something New," A Gentle Story About New Feelings

SAN ANTONIO - July 6, 2026 - PRLog -- San Antonio, Texas. Children's author Johanna Sparrow announces the upcoming release of When Maya Feels Something New: A Gentle Story About Discovering New Feelings, a beautifully illustrated picture book designed to help young children understand and embrace the emotions that come with new experiences. The book will be available on July 11, 2026, in Kindle eBook and paperback editions through Amazon, with expanded distribution to major online booksellers.

Part of the ShineSmart™: Big Feelings, Growing Hearts™ series, When Maya Feels Something New gently reminds children that feeling uncertain, nervous, curious, or excited when trying something new is a natural part of growing. Through Maya's comforting journey, young readers learn that courage is not the absence of fear it's taking small steps forward despite it.

Written for children ages 4–6, the story encourages meaningful conversations between parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers, counselors, and young readers while supporting healthy emotional development during life's everyday transitions.

"Every child experiences moments that feel unfamiliar or uncertain. My hope is that Maya's story helps children discover that new feelings aren't something to fear they're opportunities to grow with confidence, kindness, and courage."
— Johanna Sparrow

The ShineSmart™ series was created to provide developmentally appropriate stories that help children recognize, understand, and express their emotions in healthy ways while building empathy, resilience, and emotional intelligence.

Book Details

Title: When Maya Feels Something New: A Gentle Story About Discovering New Feelings

Author: Johanna Sparrow

Series: ShineSmart™: Big Feelings, Growing Hearts™

Recommended Ages: 4–6

Release Date: July 11, 2026

Formats: Kindle eBook and Paperback

About Johanna Sparrow

Johanna Sparrow is the founder of Blue Shoes Publishing LLC and the creator of educational and emotional wellness books for children, teens, and adults. Her work focuses on helping readers build emotional awareness, resilience, healthy relationships, and lifelong personal growth through accessible, encouraging, and compassionate storytelling.

Availability

When Maya Feels Something New will be available beginning July 11, 2026 in Kindle eBook and paperback editions through Amazon and other major online booksellers.

Media Contact

Blue Shoes Publishing LLC
Author: Johanna Sparrow
Website: https://www.johannasparrow.com