GRUMBLESOME

PUBLISHER’S SYNOPSIS OF GRUMBLESOME

When Nat wakes in the middle of the night, something doesn’t feel right. His thoughts swirl, his feelings grow big, and his “grumblies” begin to take over. As Nat reflects on what happened earlier—insisting on videogames at bedtime and speaking rudely to his parents—he realizes he’s carrying more than just frustration. He’s also feeling regret, and he wants to make things right. But how can a small child fix such big feelings?

In Grumblesome, Nat sets off on a heartfelt nighttime journey of reflection, creativity, and problem-solving. Armed with imagination—and helped along by familiar comforts like a superhero cape, hockey stick, teddy bear, crayons, and more—Nat works through his emotions and discovers a path toward reconciliation. His determination ultimately leads to forgiveness, family connection, and the reassurance of late-night snuggles. Written in engaging, rhythmic verse, Grumblesome is a comforting and relatable read-aloud for children ages 3–7 and the adults who care for them.

Young readers will recognize their own experiences in Nat’s story—big emotions, mistakes, and the desire to repair relationships—while finding reassurance in the warmth and resolution that follows. Colorful, expressive illustrations bring Nat’s emotional journey vividly to life, capturing his turbulent thoughts, imaginative solutions, and ultimately his growing sense of self. Perfect for bedtime—or any time children need reassurance—Grumblesome addresses themes that resonate with families today: navigating strong emotions, building resilience, using creativity to solve problems, and strengthening family bonds. A reassuring, memorable, and warmly relatable picture book, Grumblesome is one families will return to again and again.

GRUMBLESOME – Back Cover

I invite families to chat about each of these questions!

When are you grumblesome?
What did Nat do when he was feeling grumblesome?
How do you get rid of grumblies?
How do you think other people get rid of their grumblies?
What feelings did Nat experience after feeling grumblesome?
What’s your favorite illustration in GRUMBLESOME—and why?

Why did you decide to write a picture book?

This is a new genre for me! I’ve always been interested in children’s picture books and, for as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of writing stories for young readers. I love the challenge of conveying messages in a rhyming format—one that’s concise, fun to read, and enables me to really ramp up my creativity. Plus, it’s wonderful to be able to reach out and speak directly to a new audience!

Can you draw?

No. I can scribble, and I do have one mouse figure that I draw quite well. But that’s it. We all have areas of strength and weakness, and drawing is just not one of my strengths. Thankfully, the incredibly talented Brandon Dorman brought the book’s characters and experiences to life with the most amazing colorful artwork! And, Sasha Illingworth, the artistic director who worked on Grumblesome, formatted the verses and the illustrations in a compelling and fluid way. I’m grateful to them for their expertise!

How long have you been working on Grumblesome?

Several years! However, I’ve written other books and also done lots of other things in that time. The early drafts of Grumblesome are quite different from this final story. Perhaps one day I will share the different ways the book changed, how and why it evolved, and what influences had a bearing on the story’s development. I should mention, too, that Harold Underdown, has provided outstanding editorial guidance along the way, and continues to be an inspiration!

Why did you choose to use the word grumblesome—and is it a real word?

It MAY be a real word—depending on which dictionary or resource you consult. It certainly FEELS like a real word, and it has the FAMILIARITY of a real word. I first saw it used in an email sent to me by Dona Matthews (thanks, Dona!), and I just loved the SOUND of it. I think the word grumblesome is expressive, unique, and impactful.

Why are all those different things in Nat’s room?

Nat is curious, clever, and energetic, and I named him after my father. My dad loved music, writing, sports, reading, and games. Hence there’s a guitar, pens and crayons, baseball and hockey equipment, books, and a Rubiks Cube in Nat’s room. The teddy is reflective of the comforting influence that stuffed animals can have for “kids” of all ages.

Are you writing any more stories about Nat?

Yes! I have three more rhyming stories already written, and I’m working on an idea for a fourth. Stay tuned!!!