April’s Magical World and her Joy for Living Slow is a heartwarming picture book that invites children to embrace the beauty of the present moment. Written in playful rhyme, it celebrates slowing down, connecting with nature, and discovering magic in everyday life.
Stories of an Unhurried Childhood
Gentle stories that nurture imagination and connection
Stories of an Unhurried Childhood is a charming series of picture books for children aged 4 to 8, though little dreamers, both younger and older, will delight in them too.
Each story celebrates the magic of slow-paced living, reminding us that childhood is most magical when lived at its own pace.
In a world of constant screens and hurried schedules, these stories offer children the gift of slowing down by reconnecting with nature, imagination, and the simple joys of the present moment. Through gentle words and enchanting illustrations, the series nurtures kindness, mindfulness, and a deeper sense of belonging for children everywhere.
April's Magical World and her joy for living slow
Discover the magic of slowing down, where imagination blooms and joy is found in simple moments.
April's Magical Friends
A story that celebrates the magic of true friendship, where kindness, inclusion, care, and love weave a world where everyone belongs.
April's Open Wings
A gentle reminder to pause and breathe, to move through life at a softer rhythm.
I am their Bridge, my life with my divorced parents
A tender story of divorce told with compassion, offering a gentle path that honours children’s happiness, love, and sense of belonging.
"In our modern-day world, that is so busy, in which we don't seem to have any time for ourselves or our loved ones, it is so easy to lose sight of what is truly important. Kizzy Petit, in her book, reminds us that there is another way, often a better way, a magical way, if we just slow down. There are so many worlds for us to discover, if we just take the time"
John Pye
Managing Director of The Book Club Crowborough Limited, trading as The Bookshop
"Kizzy Petit has written a sweet hymn to the magic, joy and power of a childhood lived at a slow pace"
Carl Honoré
International Bestselling Author - Father of the Slow Movement
With her open wings, April soars into friendship with three magical companions: Lily the unicorn, Sunny the gentle dinosaur, and Tututi the kind-hearted dragon. Though they are different in many ways, their play is endless, their hearts are open, and together they discover the beauty of kindness, inclusion, and love.
April’s Open Wings is a heartwarming picture book that encourages children and adults alike to embrace a slower rhythm of life, one that allows us to appreciate the present moment and stay mindful of the world around us. With her big, wide wings, April follows her dreams, sings from the heart, and finds joy in the simple magic of playing outdoors.
In I Am Their Bridge: My Life with My Divorced Parents, a little girl shares her tender perspective on life between two homes. With love in her heart, she helps her parents see the best in themselves while learning that families can look many different ways. Though divorce can feel scary, she reminds us that it can also be a path toward love, respect, and a deeper connection. Through her eyes, we discover that when parents choose happiness for themselves, they also teach their children how to live with courage, curiosity, and an open heart.
STORY BEHIND THE STORIES
The Stories of an Unhurried Childhood series began as a way to bring to life the wonderful creativity that blossomed during dinner table conversations with Abril, then just four years old. Inspired by her imagination and curiosity, these playful rhyming tales celebrate the magic of a slow-paced childhood, rooted in nature, wonder, and the joy of living with an open heart.
About the Illustrator
Elys Rendón is the artist who brings April’s world to life with her beautiful watercolour drawings. She was born in Venezuela and has loved drawing ever since she was a little girl.
When she isn’t painting or designing, Elys also loves music — she sings, writes songs, and even helps make videos for other artists. With her colours and her music, she fills the world with creativity and joy.
What Readers Say:
Book Reviews
"In a time where devices and technology can feel ever-consuming, this is a story about the simple pleasures and joy of childhood, like playing outside, imaginative play with magical creatures, and exploring curiosities. The author shares this reminder in a sweet, rhythmic story with beautiful watercolour illustrations that really capture the essence of living slowly and letting children be children. My kids loved the magical creatures and recognised how fun it is to go outside and play. It also includes great tips on activities to encourage your child to do and the benefits of parenting a slow-paced childhood. I highly recommend."
Katie, U.S
"This book is filled with stories that make children feel confident in themselves and invite them to fly with their imagination. It has beautiful illustrations that accompany each passage and is also fully enjoyable for whoever supports the child in reading the story. A subtle writer, she pays attention to every detail and definitely transmits sensitivity and wisdom in every line. A bedside book for my grandson and me."
Artur, Germany
"I read it with my daughter, and we enjoyed every page, reading slowly like someone who wants their favourite dish not to run out.
It takes you into that magical world that we haven't visited for a long time, it helps you rethink the challenge of parenting in modern societies, and it helps you understand that there is still time to improve and help the little ones to live a fuller and happier childhood.
A book that every parent should read with the company of their children. A new treasure in our family library."
Neisky, Canada
"In a world that is detached, alienated, and blinded by 'being busy' and not having time, let’s be mindful not to take the simple pleasures of living slow away from our children. This is a book that can show kids (and remind their parents) that not all fun happens on the big and small screens they too often seem to be attached to. Nature can teach us so much, if we’re willing to listen. This is a great book that you can gift to your friends, loved ones and younger family members."
Ana, U.S
"Lovely, wholesome book with beautiful illustrations and a wonderful message based around finding enjoyment in the simple things. Would highly recommend to parents!"
Genevieve, U.K
"Kizzy has really captured the beauty of children’s imaginations- her book is beautifully written and a great reminder to us parents that there are so many things we can do with our kids outside in nature! Such a lovely addition to my children’s library of books!"
Chloe, U.K
