Sam’s mission is to get his story of Always Sam into the hearts, heads, and hands of as many people in the world as possible!
He teams with Joan to do the work of delivering his messages of kindness, acceptance, inclusion and building friendships.
So far, Always Sam is published in English, Spanish, and French. Over time, we hope it is written in every language so its story can reach far and wide. We all need to bring more kindness, love, and understanding into our lives.
Student Reviews
“I like the book Always Sam because I like to find the chameleons in the book. And being kind is the best!
—AUSTIN, BILINGUAL 2ND GRADE CLASS, ALABAMA
“I like Siempre Sam because it tells people not to be mean and the colors of the rainbow and the hidden chameleons.”
—KOBY, BILINGUAL 2ND GRADE CLASS, ALABAMA
“I bought several of these because I loved it so much and I wanted to hand out some at my daughter’s school. What beautiful art and what a cute story for kids. The book is all about embracing uniqueness and encouraging kids to be kind to each other.”
—AMAZON REVIEW
“What a beautiful story of looking past the differences in people, and understanding that we’re all so similar on the inside. We all want to be loved and accepted, and Sam is no exception. Sam figures out how to explain his differences in a way that is easy to understand, and very relatable. This is meant to be a children’s book, but as adult, I loved the book and its message. I bought Always Sam for my toddler granddaughter, and look forward to reading it to her, as well as discussing the questions in the back of the book, as soon as she’s just a little older. And yes, I found all the hidden chameleons!”
—AMAZON REVIEW
“I highly recommend this charming story, which is an imaginative tale with colorful illustrations and timely themes. My grandchildren, ages 6 and 4, love Always Sam, and especially enjoy finding the hidden chameleons. Through the main character, children can feel the impact of bullying, and learn how kindness matters. This is a very important book, as well as a teachable one. It definitely belongs in every child’s home..”
—AMAZON REVIEW
A teacher reads Always Sam to her second-grade bilingual class in Alabama.
“Joan’s talents come alive in my 3rd grade classroom, year after year. Joan knows how kids learn and excites them with her Joan of Art program improving literacy and art skills, with a strong trusting relationship. Always Sam, through story is another expression of Joan’s unique and imaginative way of educating our children in kindness and caring, in all of our diversity.”
—CHRISTA KNAPP, ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER 20 YEARS
