Stacey Marshall is the author of the new children's picture book Captain Courage and the Fear-Squishing Shoes. She also has written the book Captain Courage's Superhero Boot Camp. She is also a public speaking and voice coach and a speech-language pathologist.
Q: What inspired you to write Captain Courage and the Fear-Squishing Shoes, and how did you create your character Katie?
A: The inspiration for my book came from observing the challenges many children face in expressing themselves with confidence.
As a speech-language pathologist, public speaking coach, and mom, I’m acutely aware of how confident communication skills can correlate with overall self-esteem in school and beyond. So, I wanted to create a story that empowers kids to find their voice and speak up with courage.
Katie’s character is based on every child who has ever had trepidation speaking, formally or informally, especially in new situations.
Q: What do you think the story says about bravery?
A: The story highlights that bravery isn't about being fearless; it's about facing your fears and taking action despite them. It shows that true courage comes from within and can be nurtured through support, understanding, and practice.
Katie’s transformation exemplifies that bravery is a personal journey and can be achieved by anyone.
Q: What do you think Andy Catling’s illustrations add to the book?
A: I think Andy’s whimsical and adorable illustrations bring the story to life and make it engaging for young readers. The school setting is relatable and familiar, helping children connect with the characters and their experiences.
The hidden class pet, featured on almost every page (Jack the turtle), adds an element of fun and discovery, encouraging kids to look closely at each page and find joy in the little details.
Q: What do you hope kids take away from the story?
A: I hope kids take away the message that their voice matters and that they have the power to speak up with utter confidence and courage.
I want them to understand that it's okay to be shy and that, sometimes, overcoming fears is as simple as using Captain Courage’s tips and strategies, coupled with practice.
Ultimately, I hope the story inspires them to believe in themselves and their uniqueness.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I'm currently working on an exciting event where I’ll dress up as my main superhero character and teach as many kids as possible about confident communication, while letting my goofy side shine! There will be other superhero characters there as well (Captain Courage’s BFFs!).
This event aims to bring the book's message to life and provide children with practical tools and encouragement to enable them to express themselves with poise in any situation. It's a wonderful opportunity to interact with kids directly and see the positive impact of the story in action.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: A recent study/systematic literature review conducted by the NIH showed that a big increase in the amount of screen time in kids (e.g., since the pandemic) correlates with significantly decreased speech and language skills and reduced communication confidence.
So, Captain Courage to the rescue here, modeling tangible ways for kids to speak with self-assuredness in a variety of scenarios. Speaking up with confidence is a skill, and like any other skill, it can be learned and gets better with practice.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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