Overview

Rory the Restless Raccoon Does your child struggle to fall asleep because their brain won't slow down? Rory knows that swirl all too well. Rory the Restless Raccoon is a gentle bedtime story for busy thinkers, night wanderers, and curious minds who just can't switch off when the moon rises. The seventh book in the beloved Maple Shade Stories series, Rory's tale blends cozy watercolor illustrations with a calming five-step routine that helps children ease out of their swirl and into sleep. One dusky evening in Maple Shade, Rory swings on vines, counts every lily pad ripple, and chases exactly thirty-seven fireflies. But when bedtime comes, his thoughts start bouncing like popcorn. What if he misses the parade? What if he trips over his tail? What if he can't fall asleep in time? Luckily, Rory isn't alone. His friend Benny the Brave Beaver introduces a gentle routine called D.R.E.A.M.: D - Dim & Den up R - Roll out tension E - Exhale slow A - Add a calm picture M - Murmur a mantra Through this soft, step-by-step rhythm, Rory learns how to settle his body, hush his swirl, and wake up ready for the Dawn Parade. What makes this book different? A true toolkit for kids who struggle with swirling thoughts at bedtime A relatable main character who is curious, overactive, and lovable - not ""bad"" A soothing story arc that gives space for conversation, breath work, and mindfulness A built-in routine that parents and caregivers can revisit night after night Bonus pages for drawing, wordplay, and creating a personal bedtime mantra Who is this book for? Children ages 3-8 who resist bedtime, worry, or have trouble slowing their thoughts Parents, teachers, and therapists looking for a calm, emotionally intelligent resource Fans of Hazel the Helpful Chipmunk, Fred the Forgetful Squirrel, and Ollie the Overthinking Owl Families who love stories that honor neurodivergence and offer practical emotional tools About the Series The Maple Shade Stories follow a woodland community of animals who each face big feelings in small, relatable ways. Each story introduces an emotional regulation technique in a comforting, story-first way that invites repeat reading and family conversation. Whether your child is a worrier, a wiggler, or a wide-eyed firefly chaser, Rory's story is a loving reminder: Swirls can be softened. Rest can be learned. Dreams are waiting. Written and Illustrated by Brian W. Penschow, AIA

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