New release · Available now From the author of There's a Moose in My Attic →

A new classmate. An uncomfortable feeling. One small choice.

There's an Octopus in My Class is a gentle story about looking beyond a first impression and beginning to see a classmate differently.

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For ages 4–8Includes a Note for ParentsBy Matt M. Morano
An octopus watches from a swing as children run to play soccer Cover of There's an Octopus in My Class
Cover of There's a Moose in My Attic

Also available

There's a Moose in My Attic

WorrySecretsTelling the truth

After one small mistake, a little boy is left carrying a very big secret. The moose represents the emotional weight children take on when they hide the truth—and the relief that comes when they finally tell.

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The series

One unforgettable animal.
One conversation worth having.

Each story gives children a memorable way to explore a real emotional or social challenge.

There's a Moose in My Attic cover

Book one

There's a Moose in My Attic

Worry, secrets, mistakes, and finding the courage to tell the truth.

Available now →
 New release There's an Octopus in My Class cover

Book two

There's an Octopus in My Class

First impressions, uncomfortable feelings, and choosing respectful action.

Available now →
Preliminary artwork for There's an Otter in My House

Next in the series

There's an Otter in My House

A new story is taking shape.

In development
A boy sits apart with an unhappy expression while the octopus participates in a classroom reading circle

The heart of the new story

Children can feel what they feel—and still choose how they treat someone.

Octopus creates space for a thoughtful conversation about first impressions, social distance, curiosity, and respect.

Step inside the story

For grown-ups

Stories children enjoy. Conversations adults can build on.

Written by an educator, therapist, and parent, each book pairs an engaging story with guidance for the adults reading alongside a child.

1

Families

Warm openings for conversations about feelings, choices, honesty, kindness, and belonging.

2

Classrooms

Memorable read-alouds that invite discussion without turning the story into a lecture.

3

Counseling spaces

Concrete metaphors that help children approach complicated social and emotional experiences.

Matthew M. Morano smiling in front of a bookshelf

The expert behind the stories

Matthew M. Morano, PhD, LCMHC

Dr. Matt Morano is an author, educator, licensed therapist, and father. His stories translate complex emotional experiences into images and conversations children can understand.

His work is grounded in more than two decades of experience in educational psychology, counseling, higher education, and performance.

PhD, Educational PsychologyLicensed Mental Health CounselorFounder, Your Peak Mind

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Approved reviews from families, educators, and young readers.