COOL Academy
Author Visits with
Dr. Julie McDonnell
Looking for an inspiring, heart-centered author visit that kids will remember long after the last page is turned?
✅Click the contact form link below to inquire about availability and booking.
Dr. Julie McDonnell, EdD—educator, certified life coach, and author of The Flowers in Grandma’s Garden – A Bailey and Buttons Story—brings stories to life with energy, warmth, and a message that matters.
Whether in a classroom, assembly, or literacy event, her visits blend storytelling with social-emotional learning to help kids explore big feelings, build confidence, and celebrate what makes them perfect as they are.
✅Click the contact form link below to inquire about availability and booking.
Author visits include:
✔ Interactive read-aloud
✔ Discussion of key themes: self-worth, self-acceptance, and emotional resilience
✔ Engaging Q&A
✔ Hands-on SEL activities
✔ Optional classroom follow-ups
✔ Tailored for grades K–5
✅Click the contact form link below to inquire about availability and booking.
💛 True worth and beauty come from within—and every child deserves to believe that.
✅Click the contact form link below to inquire about availability and booking.
The Bailey and Buttons Series…
Stories of emotional resilience, self-worth, and self-acceptance.
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![The Flowers in Grandma's Garden]()
The Flowers in Grandma's Garden
Volume 1 in the “A Bailey and Buttons Story” Series
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My Rose Colored Glasses
Volume 2 in the “A Bailey and Buttons Story” Series
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What Ruffles Your Feathers?
Volume 3 in the “A Bailey and Buttons Story” Series
Testimonials
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![Mandy Morris Testimonial]()
"Julie not only holds the light within her, she shines it for others to find warmth too. What a blessing for her magic to be sprinkled into children’s libraries and hearts."
Mandy Morris
Entrepreneur, 2x #1 International best-selling author, and philanthropist
To Learn More about Mandy, go to mandymorris.love
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"An absolutely soul-stirring and uplifting story that directly speaks to the heart of young readers and adults alike. It beautifully explores the themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of seeing beauty in all things, even when they seem imperfect. The narrative’s simple yet profound message makes it an ideal conversation starter at home and in the classroom."
Tim Waters
Third Grade Teacher, Parent, and 2025 Missouri Teacher of the Year Semifinalist
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"This heartwarming story uses a touching relationship between a grandchild and grandparent to beautifully instill a lesson in self-worth. With charming illustrations and Bailey and Buttons' adventures, it’s perfect for both classroom and home!"
Marilyn Jones
Reading Specialist, Mom, proud Mimi
