


It details the long walk to water that was her daily experience along with the other women in her community because of the lack of access to clean water. Inspired by the childhood story of African-born model Georgie Badiel the book describes Badiel’s childhood living in Burkina Faso, Africa. Verde also works to educate children and adults about the global water crisis through her book The Water Princess, also illustrated by Peter H Reynolds. With the I AM series, infused with mindfulness and self-reflection, Susan hopes to provide children with tools in their “toolbox” to manage their emotions, reach for kindness and be able to take a compassionate, empathetic approach towards themselves and others.The I AM series includes I Am Yoga, I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness, I Am Human: A Book of Empathy, I Am Love: A Book of Compassion, I Am One: A Book of Action, I Am Courage: A Book of Resilience, I Am Me: A Book of Authenticy and there are more to come! Both books are a part of Verde’s I AM series, all illustrated by Peter H Reynolds, to help children feel empowered, strong and believe in themselves. I Am Love: A Book of Compassion, also made the New York Times best-selling list.

Verde’s book I AM Human: A Book of Empathy, her follow-up to I Am Yoga and I Am Peace became an instant #1 New York Times best-seller.

She believes every child's experience is unique and should be celebrated! Her best-selling and award-winning stories tell tales of magical museum visits, share the keys to lasting friendships, help to cultivate empathy and self-love and compassion. She grew up in the West Village of Manhattan, NY and much of her inspiration comes from the magic and wonder of the city and her own childhood as well as the children she has met along the way. Susan Verde is a New York Times bestselling children’s author, children’s yoga and mindfulness expert, former teacher, and parent.
