Let go of expectations—embrace the beautiful, messy, vibrant truth of your child.
When Nancy Manet became a parent, she was told her child should grow like a “tulip in a pot”—neat, safe, predictable. But life had a different plan. This heartwarming and visually stunning children’s book follows one parent's joyful journey of learning to let go and celebrate the growing wildflowers before them.
Told in lyrical, affirming couplets and illustrated in rich watercolor and cut-paper collage,
You Are Not a Tulip in a Pot encourages parents and caregivers to release rigid expectations and embrace children for who they truly are. This book is an invitation—not a lecture—to listen, to grow, and to love more freely.
Perfect for parents, teachers, and anyone who loves a child who breaks the mold.- A gentle, affirming message for young children
- Inclusive and emotionally rich story
- Lush, layered illustrations that celebrate freedom and individuality
Some said you should be a tulip in a pot… but you, my child, are a field of wildflowers.
Each page pairs a quiet expectation with a wild surprise:- A tea party vs. a mud puddle
- A tricycle vs. a race car
- A purring kitten vs. a mighty tiger
With every page turn, the adult and child learn that freedom and individuality are far more magical than anything they were told to expect.
Hand-Cut Watercolor and Paper CollageIllustrated by Michelle Buvala, each spread bursts with life, utilizing watercolor and cut-paper collage to bring playful movement and joyful mess to the page. Her layered textures and whimsical color choices support the book's affirming message.
Perfect For:- Parents and caregivers in transition or healing
- Storytimes that can spark real conversation
- Teachers and counselors promoting emotional growth
- Anyone who needs permission to grow outside the lines
Add this book to your home or classroom library today—and celebrate the wild, wonderful journey of growing up and growing together.
Nancy Manet is an orchestrated rock pianist, vocalist, and songwriter. This is her second children's book. Her now adult children had a profound impact on her previously rigid, religious, and conservative worldview. Through honest and sincere conversations with them, Nancy began to question her beliefs, many of which were ingrained from her own childhood. These exchanges inspired Nancy to expand and grow as a parent, ultimately embracing her children exactly as they are. Nancy is a cheerleader for those who break the mold of rigid societal norms. She is an ally.
Michelle Buvala is a visual artist and illustrator living in Arizona. She has illustrated a number of published books for children and families. Michelle's creative practice centers around watercolor paintings, pen and ink drawings, linocut prints, and mixed-media works. Her specialty is watercolor cut-paper collage, which brings layered movement and emotion to every page she touches.
