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C.M. Harris Books Blog
Hi, and welcome to my blog! I’m C.M. Harris, an author passionate about writing meaningful and engaging children's books that inspire kindness, inclusion, and curiosity.
Here, you’ll find behind-the-scenes insights into my books, updates on new releases, and fun resources for parents and teachers. I’ll also be sharing writing tips for aspiring authors, reflections on my journey, and exciting news from the world of children's literature.
Whether you're a fellow author, an educator looking for great books for your classroom, or a parent raising a little book lover, I’m so glad you’re here! Stay a while, explore, and don’t forget to subscribe for the latest updates.
Book Interest
Explore captivating insights and topics related to book interest. Dive into discussions on literary trends and book recommendations to discover your next literary adventure.
What No One Is Talking About: Why I Built a Kindness Curriculum to Save Our Children— Enough Is Enough
That is why I created Tally™ and the What If We Were Kind™ Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum—a classroom kindness program designed to prevent bullying, strengthen emotional regulation, and help children feel seen, heard, and valued.
4 days ago3 min read
As the U.S. Penny Phases Out, Author of A Penny In My Pocket Shares Why Teaching Kids Financial Literacy Matters More Than Ever
"Children learn through what they can see and touch. The penny sparked curiosity. Without it, we must be intentional about making financial literacy hands-on, visual, and fun.”
Nov 163 min read
From Diagnosis to Purpose: My Journey Living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease and Turning Adversity Into Impact C.M. Harris
Children’s author and disability advocate C.M. Harris shares her powerful journey living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (CMT) and how it inspired her to found Purple Diamond Press. In partnership with CMTRF and HNF, she turns adversity into purpose—creating inclusive stories that promote kindness, diversity, and hope.
Oct 304 min read
Meet Tally™: Inspiring Kids to Be Kind, One Coin at a Time
At C.M. Harris Books, kindness isn’t just something we write about—it’s something we live and share with children everywhere. That’s why we’re so excited to introduce you to Tally™, the official kindness mascot of the What If We Were® series.
Oct 242 min read
Case Study: How Diverse Stories Improve Student Engagement in the Classroom
Studies show that when students see themselves reflected in literature, their motivation to read increases by up to 40%(Source: Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report). Representation gives students a sense of belonging—it tells them their story has value.
Oct 182 min read
C.M. Harris Named Finalist in the 2025 Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards
Southern California, 2025 – Readers’ Favorite has announced that God’s Gifts To Us by award-winning children’s author C.M. Harris has been recognized as an Award Finalist in the Children – Religious Theme category of the prestigious 2025 International Book Awards.
Sep 22 min read
Six Years of Purpose, Passion, and Possibility
When I wrote What If We Were All The Same!, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I only knew that children deserved stories that reflected the beauty of their differences. I wanted kids everywhere to know that they mattered—that their skin, their abilities, their challenges, and their uniqueness made them special. What began as a message of inclusion quickly became a movement.
Aug 132 min read
Independent Author Launches GoFundMe to Battle Trademark and Copyright Infringement
With her GoFundMe campaign, Harris is taking a stand to protect her intellectual property, send a message about the importance of respecting authors’ rights, and ensure independent creators can continue sharing stories that inspire future generations.
Aug 52 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 📚 New Children’s Book My Teacher Says: A Day at School Encourages Kindness
“A sweet rhyming book that would be a great read for students in preschool or kindergarten. I would definitely use this book during the first few days of school to help students know what to expect and help them build classroom community.” – ★★★★★ NetGalley Reviewer
Jul 272 min read
Together, Let’s Bring Positive Stories of Empathy to Classrooms and Homes
C.M. Harris’s work has touched thousands of families and classrooms across the country. Her bestselling book, What If We Were All The Same!, was recognized by ABC7 News, selected as a “Teacher’s Pick” on Amazon, and featured on the BBC’s CBeebies Storytime. The San Francisco 49ers also chose the book for a major literacy donation to the Oakland Unified School District. Her powerful message has resonated through school visits, author events, and features in national publicatio
Jul 132 min read
Be the First to Know—Join My Mailing List!
When you join my mailing list, you’re not just signing up for another email. You’re becoming part of the C.M. Harris Books and Purple Diamond Press family—a community of parents, teachers, readers, and changemakers who believe that books can truly make a difference.
Jul 131 min read
Why Social-Emotional Learning Starts with Storytime: 10 Books That Build Empathy, Kindness & Confidence
Social-emotional learning helps children develop the skills they need to navigate relationships, manage emotions, and make informed decisions. In classrooms, it’s been shown to reduce bullying, improve academic performance, and foster inclusive environments. At home, it strengthens bonds, boosts confidence, and sparks meaningful conversations.
Jul 132 min read
What If We Were All Generous! A Beautiful New Addition to the Heartwarming Series Teaching Kids to Be Their Best Selves
This inspiring children’s picture book joins the What If We Were collection — a growing 10-book series designed to spark conversations about kindness, inclusion, friendship, honesty, and self-worth.
Jul 53 min read
Building Literacy, One Partnership at a Time
At C.M. Harris Books, we believe that literacy is a gift that can open doors, shape futures, and transform lives. But we also know it takes a village. That’s why we’re proud to introduce our Community Kindness Partners—organizations and small businesses that believe in the power of children’s books to inspire, uplift, and educate.
Jun 222 min read
Award-Winning Author C.M. Harris Honored with IBPA Silver Award for “Seen”
LOS ANGELES, CA — May 17, 2025 — Seen, a heartfelt children’s book written by award-winning author C.M. Harris and illustrated by Ratu Megawangi, has been named a 2025 IBPA Benjamin Franklin Silver Award Winner for excellence in children’s literature. Published by Purple Diamond Press, the book continues to spark powerful conversations around inclusion, kindness, and disability representation.
May 172 min read
Why Every Young Reader Needs "My Reading Adventure Journal"
Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give a child—and not just for academics. Reading builds empathy, creativity, vocabulary, and confidence. But how do we keep kids excited about reading, especially in a world filled with distractions?
May 152 min read
Celebrating the Heart of the Classroom: A Teacher Appreciation Tribute Through the Stories for Teacher Appreciation Week
Through this uplifting narrative, readers learn how powerful their words can be. Ms. Freckle teaches her students that instead of tearing others down, they can use their voices to build others up. It’s a classroom lesson that every child needs—and every teacher will appreciate.
May 72 min read
Trends May Come and Go—But Kindness Will Never Be Out of Style
From viral dances to AI art, from fidget spinners to bookish candles, trends have the power to bring people together. They create conversation, connection, and community. And sometimes, they even lead to powerful change.
Apr 232 min read
Press Release: Children’s Book 'Seen' Named Finalist in the 2025 IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards
Orange County, CA – April 3, 2025 — Seen, a heartfelt picture book by award-winning author C.M. Harris and illustrated by Ratu Megawangi,
Apr 32 min read
Top 10 Must-Read Children’s Picture Books for 2025
Children’s picture books do more than entertain — they shape how kids see the world, feel about themselves, and understand others. As a chil
Mar 282 min read
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