Is it OK to Be Quiet? is “live” on Amazon!
Trust Publishing is proud to publish Is it OK to Be Quiet? The debut picture book by author, Michael Brisciana, this is the first in the Quiet Kid Books series for early readers (ages 6 - 8).
Danny is a happy boy with a beagle named Skippy and a mom who gives him milk and cookies before he goes out to play after school. One day, Danny’s second grade classmate accuses him of being “too quiet.” This sets him on a journey of self-discovery, as he wonders, “Is it ok to be quiet?”
Children, parents, teachers, and friends are invited to join Danny as he learns how his sweet and gentle nature is a strength that brings kindness and happiness to the lives of others. It is written to resonate especially with children who are quiet or introverted by nature and all who support and encourage them.
To purchase the book in paperback or e-book, click on: AMAZON
About Is It OK to Be Quiet?
In Is it OK to Be Quiet? , we meet a cast of characters with whom we’ll become fast friends. Our hero, Danny, is joined by his spirited beagle, Skippy, his wise and thoughtful Mom, and his classmates and friends, Derek, Maria, and Susie. Debut author Michael Brisciana’s gentle but impactful words are supported by illustrator James Cook James’ warm and endearing illustrations.
Danny and Skippy
Mom
Susie and Maria
Supporting Danny in his journey of self-discovery is:
Mom, who gives Danny his favorite after-school snack, milk and cookies — and, most importantly, who gently guides and supports Danny’s exploration of his many gifts as a “quiet child” who brings kindness to others
Skippy, Danny’s best pal and faithful beagle, who waits patiently for Danny to come home from school so they can chase squirrels, dig holes, and explore the backyard — then sleeps peacefully at Danny’s feet as he quietly reads his book in the tree swing.
Derek, Maria, and Susie are Danny’s 2nd Grade classmates who we meet in math class and in the lunch room of Stanford Elementary School. Ultimately, they propel Danny’s discovery of his true nature as a kind and thoughtful introverted child.
About the Author: Michael Brisciana
New to the world of children’s literature, Michael Brisciana is returning to his first love — writing — in creating his "second act" as he eases into his next decade of life.
During a long career as a Human Resources professional, Michael authored dozens of pieces on leadership and communications. This culminated in publication of Empathetic Leadership, his “from the heart” tome on “leading with kindness, courage, and confidence” in 2019.
He now joyfully tunes his empathetic ear to children’s inner voices with publication of Is it OK to Be Quiet? This debut picture book is first of a series for early readers focused on the gifts of introverted children, aka "quiet kids", a club in which he remains a proud member. Michael dedicates his first work in this genre to "quiet kids of all ages."
For more information about Michael:
Michael’s book, Empathetic Leadership, is available here.
Goodreads Author Profile is here
A Note for Parents
I hope that reading Is it OK to Be Quiet? together with your child will be a very enjoyable and enriching experience. This story is part of a planned short series of picture books about introverted children, a “club” of which I remain a proud member.
The longing for quiet moments that we see in our story is a common trait of introverts, helping to restore emotional energy after interacting with others. While this story will be equally enjoyable for children of all personalities and spirits, one of my goals in writing it is to speak directly to parents of “quiet” or “introverted” children. My aim is to reassure parents and children not only that there’s nothing wrong with being quiet or introverted – but rather, as Danny comes to learn, an introverted nature can be a great gift that helps one be more aware and supportive of others in meaningful ways. As we all can attest, having thoughtful and caring souls in our lives is a treasure beyond measure.
While I am far from an expert on introversion, I’m thrilled to recommend someone to you who is a true expert in the field. If you’re not already family with Susan Cain’s work, her seminal book, Quiet, as well as her hugely popular TED Talk, had a deep impact on my understanding of the subject and on my life. Ms. Cain’s follow-up book, Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverted Kids (2017), is a highly recommended resource for helping an introverted child thrive in a world made for extrovert energies and sensibilities.
I hope that Is It OK to Be Quiet? gives you and your child great peace of mind in your journey exploring the joys and comforts of quietude.
Michael Brisciana
Reviews of Is It OK To Be Quiet?
Is It OK To Be Quiet? is a heartfelt story about Danny—a quiet boy with a powerful inner world. As he quietly faces challenges at school and in life, Danny shows that real strength doesn’t need to shout. His quiet courage, empathy, and quiet acts of bravery make him a hero worth remembering. A touching read that reminds us the softest voices can carry the loudest truths.
Amina A. Pasha - Children’s author and illustrator (Camela: The Camel Without a Hump); mom
@camelaofficial24
I had the pleasure of reading an advance copy of Is It OK to Be Quiet? by Michael Brisciana—and what a powerful, moving story it is.
Children’s books are often told from the perspective of the boldest, most outgoing characters. But this story stands out. It centers on Danny, a quiet boy who begins to question whether being quiet is okay after a classmate asks him why he’s always so silent.
With gentle support from his mum, Danny reflects on his day and begins to uncover the quiet strengths within him. He notices things others might miss, senses when his friends need support, and finds his own unique ways to connect and have fun—all without saying a word. Through this journey, Danny comes to embrace his quiet nature and realises it’s not something to fix, but something to value.
This is a beautiful, affirming book for every quiet child who wonders if they should be different—and just as importantly, for louder children who might better understand their quieter peers. It gently reinforces that being quiet doesn’t mean being unhappy, and that communication and connection come in many forms.
A heartwarming, empowering story with a message that deserves to be heard.
Vicky Phillips - Children’s author (Dottie’s Tall Tales), teacher, mum
@vicky.phillips.writes
A Special Gift for You
To help you get to know Danny and his friends, we’re excited to share free coloring pages with you. Based on illustrations from the book, these pages are in pdf format for ease of printing and are sure to provide great enjoyment for children (of all ages!) who love to color (and who doesn’t!).
Simply complete the Contact form below to join the Quiet Kid Club mailing list. We’ll keep you apprised of future updates and news regarding this book series and you’ll receive the coloring pages by automatic download as our gift. Print, draw, and enjoy!!
Join the Quiet Kid Club & Receive a Free Coloring Book Download
We would love to stay in touch with you as Danny goes on to further discoveries in the Quiet Kid Books series. Please leave your contact details and we’ll keep you posted on future updates.
As a special gift for becoming a member of the club, we’ll send you coloring pages for your child to enjoy, featuring Danny, Mom, Skippy, and friends!