Tell Me a Reason Why: A Skunk and Rat Story

Skunk seems to have forgotten that she's lovable. She needs someone to remind her. She turns to her best friend, Rat. "Do you love me?" she asks him. Skunk wants more than a simple yes for affirmation, though. She wants to know why. Through a list of thoughtful reasons, Rat shows Skunk that he truly gets her and loves her just the way she is-quirks and all. In each beautifully illustrated vignette, Rat highlights one of the unique traits that make Skunk who she is and why she's lovable. This charming story is a delightful reminder of the healing power of words.

Through each page, kids will see what it looks like to use kind words that show love to a friend. Skunk and Rat will have you creating your own lists of reasons to share with the people you love.

Graysen Luthye is a 10-year-old girl with curly locks and a lot of energy. She likes to cook, dance, hike, and go on adventures with her dog, Jacob. Her favorite things to do with friends are building forts, going camping, playing at the beach, and exploring new places-anywhere, really, as long they are together. She has never met a book she wouldn't read, but her favorite author is J.K. Rowling. Originally from San Diego, California, she currently lives with her mom and dad in Baltimore, Maryland.

Curt Luthye is Graysen's dad. He enjoys taking walks, spending time in nature, and meeting new people. His favorite people are kids because they remind us to approach life with curiosity, joy, and laughter. His favorite things to do with friends are playing games, sharing meals, and having good conversations. His favorite author is C.S. Lewis. He has lived in and visited countries all over the world, but his favorite place to be is home with his family.

Justice Lanclos is an illustrator currently residing in Baltimore, Maryland. Influenced by both American artistic traditions and Japanese traditions, she loves the use of texture and big doe eyes. A fiend for a good dose of magic, she hopes to transport viewers with her work, whether that be by evoking memories or widening perspectives. To find more of her work or to hire her for your next project, go to www.momentsofjustice.com.