Overview
An empowering SEL picture book that helps children recognize hurtful behavior, understand their feelings, and find the courage to speak up. Eight-year-old Yesenia ""Yaya"" Rivera is an Afro-Latina, neurodiverse girl whose bright ideas lift her right onto her toes. She loves working with her friends on creative projects at Sitton Elementary-until a classmate's unkind words make her spark grow quiet. When Yaya's feelings become ""small inside,"" she learns that speaking up is a brave step toward feeling safe again. With the support of her family, her friends, and a trusted teacher, Yaya discovers that courage isn't always loud. Sometimes it begins with a soft voice, a truthful moment, and an adult who listens. Expertly Crafted for Emotional Growth Written by Industrial-Organizational Psychologist Dr. JeVona Maniex, Yesenia Speaks Up is a warm and inclusive story that gently guides children through the realities of teasing, repeated unkindness, and bullying. It teaches kids how to identify their emotions, seek help from trusted adults, rebuild confidence, and understand the power of their own voice. This anti-bullying picture book supports social emotional learning (SEL) and offers a relatable entry point for conversations about: - Emotional awareness for children - Bullying prevention strategies - Neurodiversity and inclusion - Safety and trusted adults - Courage and confidence for kids - Elementary school friendship and teamwork Featuring full-color inclusive illustrations, neurodiversity-affirming storytelling, and bonus SEL reflection questions, this book is an essential resource for families, classroom teachers, school counselors, social workers, and psychologists. If you're looking for an inclusive children's book that helps kids feel seen, supported, and brave enough to use their voice, this uplifting story belongs on your shelf.
Full Product Details
Author: Dr Jevona Maniex ,
Shumaila Khan
Publisher: Grace & Grit Books
Imprint: Grace & Grit Books
Edition: Large type / large print edition
Volume: 6
Dimensions:
Width: 21.60cm
, Height: 0.30cm
, Length: 21.60cm
Weight: 0.132kg
ISBN: 9798295411670
Pages: 46
Publication Date: 05 December 2025
Recommended Age: From 5 to 12 years
Audience:
Children/juvenile
,
Children / Juvenile
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: Available To Order
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Reviews
""An empowering and heartfelt story that teaches kids the courage to speak up."" - Early Educator Review ""A beautiful resource for classrooms and families discussing bullying."" - Parent Reader
Author Information
Dr. JeVona Maniex is an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist, children's author, and creator of the Yesenia's Adventures series. Her work blends emotional intelligence, social courage, and empowering stories designed to help children build confidence and resilience. Through her publishing imprint, Grace & Grit Books LLC, she creates uplifting books that celebrate diversity, bravery, and the beauty of finding one's voice. Dr. Maniex lives in Battle Ground, Washington with her husband Scott, three adult children, and fifteen grandchildren, who continue to inspire each story she writes. Learn more at www.JeVonaManiex.com. Shumaila Khan is a children's book illustrator known for warm, expressive artwork that highlights emotional depth, cultural richness, and imagination. Her vibrant visual storytelling brings Yesenia's world to life on every page.
