When Tootles the Turtle wanders too near the edge of the lake, a gluttonous gator bites off one of her hind legs. The imposing gator warns Tootles, “Don’t tell a soul – OR ELSE! Not ONE SOUL – or I’ll come back and eat your other legs one by one, and – FINALLY – I’ll have your Mommy for dessert!”
Praise for Tootles
“As an educator in public and private schools for over 25 years, I have seen the effects of childhood abuse and bullying played out every day in the classroom. Some children will spend their lifetimes trying to overcome the shame, loss of self-confidence, crippling of personal relationships and disenchantment with the school experience as a result of these tragic, unsolicited, secretive encounters. In the hands of a caring parent, counselor or teacher, Tootles the Turtle Tells the Truth has the potential to lead to resolution and empowerment for these sensitive children. This delightful, empowering book gives children permission to expose burdensome secrets. I highly recommend Tootles the Turtle Tells the Truth as a valuable tool for any professional who cares about children.”
“A simple, charming tale that packs a powerful punch.”
“Violence against women and children is at crisis proportion in the world. Mahatma Gandhi, icon of peace and social justice, noted that the civility of a society is reflected in how it treats the weakest of the weak. That being the case, society at present is far from civil. In this first children’s publication by intuitive author Lenell Levy Melancon, we catch a glimpse of a remedy that society might take in protecting its young. Ms. Melancon captures the nature of the secrecy surrounding an episode of abuse and powerlessness in this charming little tale of Tootles the Turtle, helping children see a way to break the silence, and providing parents and caregivers with a tool to expose traumatic events. Only someone with an understanding of the many facets of emotional pain and a beautiful, light spirit in search of truth could have written such a captivating tale. We look forward to more of her unique perspective.”
Portfolio Highlights
“A simple, charming tale that packs a powerful punch.”
~ Butch Robicheaux, LCSW
News Highlights
“Every parent and every school should have this book!” ~ Denise Starns Wallner