A Nasty Virus has Struck the World,

About the Book

Samantha Gene and Jersey Jack are two giraffes who have had to stay home for the last few weeks. They don’t understand why they can’t go out to the places they used to visit—school, the park, the grocery store, or any of their friends’ houses. They are sad and angry, and they begin misbehaving.

When their parents, Georgia and Jose, see them acting out, they call a family meeting. They explain to Samantha Gene and Jersey Jack that there is a virus going around called COVID-19. In order to stay safe, everyone must practice social distancing, wash their hooves, wear masks around others, and stay home when they are not feeling well. Even though there are a lot of changes and things can be scary, the four giraffes know it’s best to be cautious and patient. Together they make a plan to get through the crisis; they know they’re all in this together!

This children’s story tells the tale of a family of giraffes who are dealing with the global pandemic of COVID-19, exploring coping skills and possible scenarios as the world is changing around them.

About the Author

Julie Sorenson has been an elementary educator. She has taught as an adjunct professor at a university, teaching aspiring elementary and middle school teachers how to teach social studies. Currently, she is a School Counselor K-12 and Licensed Professional Counselor. She is in the process of completing her Doctorate of Marriage and Family Therapy. Julie is a mother of three, loves to travel, being near the water and sunsets.

Richelle Bower teaches visual arts to elementary school children and a handful of sloths in southwestern Michigan. When she isn’t in the classroom, you can usually find her running on country roads or playing frisbee in the yard with her family. This is her first time illustrating a book.