When You Know What You Don't Want

by Ann Fleming, Stefanie Geyer (illustrator)

Show your child how powerful they truly are!
In this first place winner of The International BookFest Awards, Professor Finelly McTueful guides young readers on a journey of self-discovery and positive thinking. Through engaging rhymes and relatable scenarios, children learn the importance of recognizing their feelings and understanding the power of choice. The Professor teaches them how to transform negative experiences into positive ones, fostering resilience and optimism.
By encouraging kids to focus on what they truly want, this book helps cultivate a mindset that embraces joy and curiosity. It empowers them to choose kindness, seek adventure, and appreciate the good in their lives, no matter the circumstances. Filled with whimsical illustrations and valuable life lessons, this book is an essential tool for helping children navigate their emotions and build a foundation for a positive outlook on life. With Professor McTueful as their guide, children will discover that happiness is within their reach, waiting to be uncovered.

Genres: Childrens

42 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 28, 2024

About the author

Ann Fleming is an award winning children's book author known for her impactful stories. Originally from upstate New York, she now resides in sunny San Diego with her family.
Inspired by the books she enjoyed reading with her son, Ann felt a calling to create stories that would capture the same sense of fun, reflection, and adventure that they experienced together.
Ann's books are not just entertaining; they carry powerful themes of appreciation, joy, friendship, acceptance, and the importance of choosing one's thoughts. She believes in the remarkable ability of children to shape their own minds and create a peaceful environment within themselves.
Her passion for empowering children through her enchanting stories is evident in every word she writes. With her books, she aspires to leave a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of young readers, guiding them towards a future filled with positivity, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the magic of storytelling.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

When you know

This is a cute book for kids. Most of the rhymes work well but some are a bit awkward. I was hopeful to use this book in small group reading with students. However it is too long for that.

[Steven Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having an Open Mind!

This book had the great rhymes and great illustrations and even a great maze at the end, but the message of having an open mind and not rushing to bad judgments can make the day shine so much brighter!!! Well done!

[Mom1kori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book! It’s both entertaining and thought-provoking for kids. It encourages them to reflect on their feelings and make empowered decisions. A great tool for parents too!

[Alex Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a parent, "When You Know What You Don't Want" by Ann Fleming stands out as a thought-provoking and empowering children's book. The story centers around Professor Finelly McTueful, who guides young readers on a journey of self-discovery, emotional understanding, and positive thinking. Through relatable rhymes and scenarios, it helps children identify their feelings and focus on their desires rather than dwelling on negatives. This approach fosters resilience and a mindset of gratitude and optimism.

The book’s whimsical illustrations and engaging narrative make it an enjoyable read for kids while delivering valuable lessons about choice, kindness, and emotional growth. It’s a great tool for helping children navigate challenging emotions and develop a positive outlook on life. For parents looking for a story that combines entertainment with meaningful life lessons, this book is a worthy addition to the family library.

[Marin . · Rating 3 out of 5]

Children instinctively like books that teach them about good and evil, right or wrong, and other virtues but only love books with great stories.
Unfortunately, the author does not follow the most powerful forms of teaching - a good plot recipe that requires a beginning, a middle, and an end.
The narrative is a bit chaotic, although it teaches valuable life lessons.
The story starts with good rhymes that create common word patterns young readers love.
Sadly, the correct rhythm is lost, the verses are forced, and the biggest advantage of rhyming books - to be snappy - is lost.
The visual roadmap of the book is good.
The illustrations make the publication entertaining, help readers see the world differently, and add meaning to the storyline.

[Ameliessa Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Professor Finelly McTueful is here to help little minds unlock their inner awesome! This book is like a secret guide to feeling good, even when things feel a bit 'bleh.'
My favorite part is about how if you only look at the yucky stuff (like dirt!), you might miss all the amazing flowers around you. It reminds us that we can choose what we focus on, and saying 'Nope, not for me!' to the bad stuff can actually help us see all the good things we DO like – like blue bikes and beach days!
If you want a book that teaches kids how to be their own happiness superheroes, this is it. It's full of rhymes and good vibes, showing that even when life throws you a curveball, you can choose to see the bright side.

[Melissa Blizzard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ann Fleming has written a delightful children's book teaching young children everywhere the importance of looking at all things through an optimistic perspective! Through the guidance of Professor McTueful, children will embark on a whimsical journey finding and contemplating the many negative findings one might find in the world around them. Through the progression of this children's picture book, children will learn to ignore the trappings of negative thinking and search out more meaningful connections to find in the wonder and joy around them.

[Jane E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful book about making choices for your day. Either positive or negative-it is entirely up to how you yourself view life's happenings. The story gives different examples of situations happening, not necessarily a follow- along story. I did notice a few discrepancies with rhyming patterns and words. Overall, it is a good message for children to learn how to approach circumstances in life and be joyous- you can choose reactions to life.

[Bonnie Lieberman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This picture book deserves the five stars without doubt. The illustrations are clear and bright and engaging for children. The scenerios are perfect for children between 6 and 8. For that audience it can be a read aloud, a fill in a word at the end of a phrase because of the rhyme or an independent read with a grown up standing by.

[Carolyn Watson-Dubisch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Narrated by a wizard and brightly illustrated, kids will definitely enjoy this book. The message is a little slim as it's seems to be "you know what you know". I really did like the creative quality of the story. I also liked the maze activity in the back of the book.

[Sara Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this clever book! I am a 69-year-old teacher, and even I learned a thing or two from Professor McTueful! Kids will enjoy the colorful illustrations and rhyming verse. Well written with a great cover!

[Rich Linville · Rating 5 out of 5]

To look on the bright side is better than focusing on the negativity. This is a story that shows children that knowledge and positivity are valuable. If you focus on the good things, you'll have a good day. Beautifully illustrated with wonderful rhymes.

[Harshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the opportunity to win this book through the Goodreads Giveaway.

Although it's aimed at kids, this book offers valuable lessons for adults as well. It left me feeling more grateful for my life and gave me a refreshing new perspective.

[Guy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book delivers a positive message about looking on the bright side, which is always a great lesson for kids. The writing is simple and easy to follow, and the illustrations add a cheerful touch. For parents looking for a book with an uplifting theme, this could be a nice, quick read.

[Danielle LaRosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful book with a great message about positive thinking—knowing what you don’t want can help you discover what you do. The rhymes aren’t always smooth, but the concept is strong and empowering for young readers. A great pick for sparking conversations about the power of choice.

[AllBookedUp · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rhymes were awkward at times, and the meaning behind the prose has to be explained to the kids, which is fine. I enjoy having an open dialogue with the kids; however, it could have been written better.

[Maria Michalicka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book is written in a nice, rhyming form. Helps children to understand real values and that's it's ok to tell your opinion and to do, how your heart guides you.

[What To · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is such a fun read and it has a great message that contains helpful lessons for kids. Highly recommend.

[Mechale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute book for kids!

[Danielle Mccoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great way at looking at the world. We can choose what we see!

[McKinlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best children's books I have read in a while. The illustrations are so cute, and the message is one that is perfect for kids, and adults!

[S · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this for my grandkids, and we all enjoyed it. It’s lighthearted but teaches something meaningful. Great for talking about feelings and turning a bad day around. A sweet and thoughtful story.

[Naomi · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars. While I loved the theme of this book, I felt it was written WAY over the head of the young audiences it was written for.

[Justice · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oof... unnecessary rhyming, too many words, weird illustrations and a fake award on the cover to boot!