Shelley Smith Adams has published a new children's picture book, 'Coley Bear's Blue-Tastic Day!,' inspired by her son Cole, who has Down Syndrome. The story, set in a familiar home environment, follows young Cole as he decides to paint himself blue after watching a cartoon artist on television. The narrative emphasizes the joy of the creative process over the final outcome, offering a tender look at childhood discovery and parental guidance.
The book opens with Cole sitting quietly on the sofa, watching his favorite cartoon. The character on screen is painting, which sparks a thought in Cole's mind: he wants to paint, too. This simple moment of inspiration sets the stage for the unexpected adventure that follows, highlighting how children absorb and act upon the world around them. Cole then tiptoes to the craft cabinet, where he selects blue fingerpaint, his favorite color. He returns to the sofa and begins painting, starting with a single finger, then his whole hand, and eventually covering his arms and legs with blue paint, giggling with delight.
The story's key moment occurs when Cole's sister, Ryleigh, walks in and sees her blue brother. She calls for their mother, creating a point of tension as readers anticipate the adult's reaction to the colorful mess. However, when Mom arrives, she freezes for a moment before shifting her focus from the mess to the beaming pride on Cole's face. She praises him for correctly identifying the color, choosing to celebrate his joy and achievement rather than scold him. This response underscores the book's central message about the importance of patience, love, and guidance in family life.
Author Shelley Smith Adams, from Destrehan, Louisiana, wrote the book to share her son's unique way of seeing the world. 'Coley Bear's Blue-Tastic Day!' is available on Amazon and is intended for families and educators seeking a lighthearted yet meaningful addition to children's literature. The book turns an everyday moment into an uplifting lesson about creativity and acceptance, making it a valuable resource for discussing the joys of childhood and the power of a family's love.
