Title: In Otto’s Shoes (Bob & Otto series, Book 5)
Author/Illustrator: Jesper K. Lassen
Publisher: VEN Method (social-emotional learning that builds connection and community in classrooms and at home)
Release Date: September 10, 2026
Format: Paperback and eBook (Kindle)
Series: Bob & Otto
Summary: Two stories in one picture book for ages 4-8. Read forward for Bob’s side of a friendship mix-up. Turn it over and the same pages, same words, tell Otto’s. Otto’s new shoes hurt; halfway home they swap so you feel both walks. Opens and closes on: I like your shoes. An empathy picture book that makes the oldest idea about walking in someone else’s shoes literal enough for a four-year-old.
Summary: When big feelings get tangled, a few silly bug moves might help loosen the knots.
Lee is having a not-so-good day. Their shell feels too heavy, their trail has washed away, and their favorite leaf is gone. Lee feels slow, messy, and stuck; but they aren’t quite sure which feelings are bugging them.
Luckily, their friend Betsy has a web full of emotions and a playful way to help. Together, they notice Lee’s body clues, name the feelings caught in the tangle, and try a series of delightfully wiggly bug moves: stretch like a spider, wiggle like a worm, buzz like a bee, and rest like a ladybug.
Not every move works for Lee, and that’s okay. By experimenting, Lee discovers that difficult feelings can change. Soon, sad feels smaller, worried feels quieter, and there is room for calm and a little bit of brave. When Flicker faces a frustrating problem later that day, Lee is ready to share what they learned.
What’s Bugging You? is a warm, funny picture book about emotional awareness, body cues, self-regulation, empathy, and helping a friend. Back matter includes conversation prompts, fascinating bug facts, and a step-by-step drawing activity. An engaging read-aloud for children ages 4-8 at home, in the classroom, or with a counselor.
Are you a picture book writer? Or Illustrator? Would you like a chance to get your picture book manuscript or dummy critiqued by an industry professional: an experienced author, a professional illustrator, or a literary agent? If you answered YES! then you won’t want to miss Picture Book Critique Fest 2019, a one-time picture book critique giveaway, created by Brian Gehrlein, the brains behind the splendid site Picture Book Spotlight!Thirty-five winners will be selected and matched up with one of the thirty-five participating professionals (there are some big names here, folks) to receive a critique. This is an amazing opportunity! I’ll be applying; you should too. You only have until 9 AM CST on October 25th, so get going!Click the #PBCRITIQUEFEST logo above for more information.
