Children's books about bravery & kindness

Brave like Stormy.

Stories inspired by Stormy, a one-eyed rescue cat who proves that what makes us different is exactly what makes us strong.

Stormy, a winking gray cartoon cat with one eye
See the books Meet Stormy
The Books

Stories about courage, kindness, and one very brave cat

Picture books for ages 2–10, perfect for home, classrooms, and story time.

Stormy's Brave Beginning book cover — a rescuer holds tiny Stormy in the rain

Stormy's Brave Beginning

When a tiny, sick kitten is rescued from the side of the road during a rainstorm, no one knows if he'll survive. After losing one eye, Stormy begins a brave journey of healing, trust, and finding his forever home. Based on a true story, this heartwarming picture book helps kids ages 2–10 understand that being different does not mean being broken.

Available now Get the book on Amazon
Stormy's First Christmas book cover — Stormy by a decorated Christmas tree

Stormy's First Christmas

Stormy has never seen a Christmas tree, twinkling lights, or wrapped presents before. From cozy moments by the tree to the joy of Christmas morning, Stormy learns that the best part of the season isn't the gifts — it's being together. A sweet, comforting holiday story with gentle themes of love, family, and belonging.

Available now Get the book on Amazon
Stormy's Brave Adventure

Stormy's Brave Adventure

Stormy sets out on his biggest adventure yet. Currently in illustration — follow along for sneak peeks and the release date.

Coming soon Subscribe for updates

Signed Books

Want a copy signed for a special reader? Email me and I'll personalize it just for them.

Request a signed copy

Bulk Orders

Ordering for a classroom, library, or event? Email me about bulk pricing and I'll take care of you.

Ask about bulk orders
Printables

Brave Like Stormy Activities

Printable activities that turn Stormy's story into conversations about courage, kindness, and celebrating what makes each of us different.

Free

Free Activity Page

A one-page sampler with a Stormy coloring page, word search, and connect-the-dots. Print as many as you need.

Download the free page
23 pages • $7

The Full Activity Pack

  • Stormy coloring pages
  • Discussion guide for reading together
  • "I Am Brave When..." write-and-draw page
  • What Makes Me Special
  • Kindness Bingo & word search
  • Bravery certificate for every child
Get the Activity Pack
Stormy the one-eyed gray rescue cat lounging on the couch
Meet Stormy

One eye. All heart.

Stormy is a real rescue cat who lives in rural Minnesota with his forever family.

We found him on the side of the road, sick and afraid. We didn't even know if he'd make it. He got stronger, but then he lost an eye. He turned us into "cat people." Stormy made us fall in love with him, and I decided his story was worth sharing.

That's how I ended up starting something brand new in my 40s — writing children's books about Stormy.

About the Author

Meet Ronni

Ronni Vlaminck is a mom, small business owner, physical therapist assistant, and children's book author. She never expected to write a book — especially about a cat. But when her husband rescued a tiny, sick kitten on the side of the road, everything changed.

Stormy captured their hearts and inspired Ronni to write Stormy's Brave Beginning, a story about courage, kindness, differences, and family. Writing the book opened up a creative part of her she didn't know existed, and she has already inspired kids and adults to step out of their comfort zones and try something new.

Ronni grew up in a small town in South Dakota and now lives on an acreage in Minnesota with her family. Stormy rules the house, and the outside crew includes cats, chickens, a rabbit, and a mini donkey.

Dreaming of starting something new yourself? Ronni's ebook shares exactly how it happened for her. And don't forget to follow Stormy's adventures, download a free coloring book, and stay connected!

Ronni Vlaminck, children's book author
Author Visits

Bring Stormy's story to your school, library, or community

Author Visits • Storytime • Courage & Kindness

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Author Visits

Ronni shares how a one-eyed rescue cat turned into a children's book, and why it's never too late to try something new.

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Storytime

Interactive read-alouds with photos of the real Stormy and plenty of room for questions, for schools, libraries, and daycares.

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Courage & Kindness

Conversations that help kids see differences as strengths and understand that being brave doesn't mean you're never scared.

I'm always open to ideas that best support your mission and the families you serve.

Email Ronni to book your visit
@stormytherescuecat

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Check out Stormy's real life, kindness lessons, behind-the-scenes book news, and everyday crazy cat life.