Small But Mighty

Small But Mighty is a beautifully illustrated children's book written specifically for a mother to read to her premature baby. Follow her journey as she cares for her baby in the NICU, experiencing the joy, grief and unconditional love that comes with the birth of a preemie.

Every year, an estimated 15 million babies are born prematurely. They often require lengthy hospitalization that may result in speech and language delays later in life. Reading to preemies not only improves brain development, but may improve their vocabulary and reading proficiency as children and teens.

Many NICU moms report feeling helpless. It can be weeks, or even months, before they're able to participate in their baby's care. Reading "Small But Mighty" to their preemie in the NICU allows them to play an important role in their baby's long-term growth and development. And, as their preemie grows, this book serves as a reminder of the triumphant milestones accomplished in the NICU.

Alyssa Veech is a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with a passion for raising prematurity awareness. Alyssa began her nursing career working as a critical care nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Her passion for neonatology led her to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, earning her doctoral degree from the University at Pittsburgh. Alyssa lives in New York with her husband and daughter. She works as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner in the NICU at Sisters of Charity Hospital and Mercy Hospital of Buffalo. In her spare time, Alyssa loves to bake and travel with her family.

Penny Weber is a full time artist and illustrator from Long Island, New York, where she's lived all of her life. She works both digitally and traditionally in acrylics and watercolors. Penny attended classes at the School of Visual Arts in New York. She has a husband, three children, a cat, and she is heavily lobbying for a puppy!