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The Katy Bug Chronicles
Ever had to help your child find courage to try something new?
Katy Bug’s Brave Adventure by Cathy Wallace is the perfect story to show kids how to face big fears in a giant world. Beautifully illustrated by Joana Pereira,
this gentle, heartwarming book follows a tiny katydid who is too afraid to hop with her brothers to find food.
Through Katy's journey, young readers learn that being brave does not mean you are never scared, but rather taking the next step anyway. With the support of her wise brothers and an unexpected ally, Katy learns to overcome challenges by relying on the love of her community.
As an Ella's Way Award-Winner recognized for promoting acceptance, kindness, and inclusion, this book serves as an excellent Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) tool to openly discuss big feelings, resilience, and leadership. Reading this story together empowers children to trust mentors, build emotional resilience, and discover their own special place in the world.
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Just who is Katy Bug's unexpected ally? How does this bold creature help?
Scroll up and click "Buy Now" to start your brave adventure today!
Ever been swept away from your cozy home to a new experience? Hop along again as our favorite katydid crew heads off to another adventure!
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Katy Bug's Island Adventure by Cathy Wallace takes readers on a vibrant tropical journey. Follow Katy and her katydid crew after they are swept away from their cozy sunflower home to a vibrant tropical island. Instead of giving in to fear, the small bugs explore rainforests and make new friends, proving they can handle big changes.
For parents and teachers, this story is a powerful Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) tool that helps children navigate anxiety around new routines, school transitions, or unexpected moves. By modeling self-awareness, the narrative gives kids the vocabulary to identify anxious feelings and transform fear into curiosity. The characters practice teamwork and make fun new friends who teach them about the island. Perfect for the classroom or a bedtime story, this book inspires a growth mindset and builds lifelong resilience.
Can you spot Katy Bug's ally on the island?
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About Cathy Wallace
Cathy Wallace is an Ella’s Way award-winning children’s author and early literacy advocate. Following a 30-year career as a classroom teacher, Cathy now channels her understanding of child development into the vibrant Katy Bug book series.
Beautifully illustrated by Joana Pereira, these stories serve as powerful Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) tools. They are specially crafted to help young readers manage big emotions, navigate anxiety, and transform fear of the unknown into joyful curiosity. Cathy loves exploring nature with her grandkids and supporting community literacy initiatives including Little Free Library.
Join the Katy Bug Club
Join my email list and be a part of future children's books! I love to hear ideas from kids and incorporate them into my stories.
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What Drives Me
I truly believe a good story is the shortest distance between a child and a brand-new adventure! My goal is to give teachers, parents, and grandparents meaningful books that spark curiosity and help kids find their inner courage. I write stories that inspire kids to try new things, chase their dreams, and become confident, quiet leaders.
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The Spark Behind Katy Bug
Before becoming an author, I spent three wonderful decades as an elementary school teacher helping kids write their stories. The inspiration for my own book arrived on a road trip when my husband and I spotted a tiny, brave band of katydids crossing a highway.
Growing up, I was a kid who struggled to find my own bravery, so I knew this was a story I had to tell! I shared the very first draft with my fourth graders. They quickly became my toughest critics and biggest cheerleaders, helping me shape Katy Bug's Brave Adventure.
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When I’m not at my writing desk, you can usually find me giggling and playing with my grandkids, tending to my garden, or weaving cozy baby blankets. I also love outdoor adventures, especially fly fishing on beautiful Northern California rivers, but my absolute favorite place to relax and recharge is the magical island of St. Croix!
Photographs of my Adventures
