Big feelings, gently held
Each story explores emotions little ones may have through everyday experiences.
The "When I" Series
Inspiring young hearts,one story at a time.
Children's picture books by Zakiyah Everette — gentle, relatable stories that help little readers name big feelings, embrace differences, and feel brave in everyday moments.
Big feelingsRepresentationAges 3–8
Our Mission
Transforming everyday moments into meaningful learning.
Every “When I…” book transforms an everyday childhood experience into a meaningful social-emotional learning opportunity. Through relatable stories, children learn to identify their feelings, build resilience, practice empathy, develop confidence, and gain healthy coping skills they can use in real life.
About the series
Little moments.
Big feelings.
When I…
The "When I" series follows everyday adventures — happy days, new places, new people — that shape who a child is becoming. Each book is a soft hand to hold, written by a former educator and mother who believes every child deserves to see themselves in the pages of a book.
Social-Emotional Learning
Stories that help children name feelings, build kindness, and grow self-confidence.
Diversity & Representation
Uplifting Black characters and children from all walks of life — every reader belongs on the page.
Everyday Big Moments
From dentist visits to meeting someone new — gentle preparation for the moments that feel big.
On shelves now
Read it together tonight.
Why families love it
Sweet stories with a soft, steady heart.
Kids who see themselves
Brown skin, curly hair, real families. Representation woven into every page, never as an afterthought.
Made for read-alouds
Warm rhythm, cozy art, and pages that invite a question, a giggle, or a snuggle before the next turn.
What's next
Four new adventures, on the way.
New "When I" stories are in the works — each one a soft, rhyming hand to hold through the everyday moments that feel big to a little person.
Coming soonWhen I Have a Big Change
Packing up, starting fresh, and learning that change can grow something beautiful.
Coming soonWhen I Go to the Dentist
A brave, smiley first trip to the dentist's chair — no scary surprises.
Coming soonWhen I Meet Someone Different
A playground full of new friends — celebrating every kind of kid.
Coming soonWhen I Go to the Hair Salon
A routine hair appointment becomes an opportunity to explore anticipation, excitement, patience, confidence, and pride.
Meet the author
Hello, I'm Zakiyah.
I'm a children's author, former educator, social-emotional advocate, and mother. I believe stories have the power to shape young minds — to foster confidence, kindness, and the courage to be exactly who you are.
The "When I" series was born from a simple wish: that every child could open a book and see themselves on the page, in the moments that matter most.
Say hello
Let's stay in touch.
School visits, read-alouds, bulk book orders, or just a kind note — I'd love to hear from you.