Cloak of Courage

Author Gail Arroita, in her 'Let's Do Life' children's book series uses rhythmic text and endearing after-life characters to depict life as it is for kids growing up in the 21st century and offers life-lessons for, 'every little monster'. The issues addressed range from cyber bullying to personal finance, good manners to communication, and are purposely aimed at educating children about each specific subject. The first book in the series to be released is 'The Cloak of Courage'. In it we meet the unique after-life characters from 'Ickity Stickity Land' whose endearing personalities come alive through the artistic talent of illustrator, Ian Coate. The first of these after-life characters is Victor Vampire. Vic is both mentor and hero who offers his imaginary 'Cloak of Courage' to those being bullied. Readers also meet Zac Zombie, Skye Werewolf and Spike Skeleton who take Vic's words of wisdom and Cloak of Courage and transform heroically into courageous and strong individuals who now have self-esteem and a self-assuredness which prior to the Cloak, eluded them. The life lessons are learnt by seeing first-hand how the Ickity Stickity folk such as Vic, Zac, Skye and Spike tackle the same everyday issues human kiddies encounter. Children form a relatedness to each of the characters for they see a part of themselves sharing the same concerns, hopes, fears and joy that the Ickity Stickity kids experience, and learn how to deal with them in the same way they do.Bullying is the predominate theme which 'The Cloak of Courage' addresses. We witness the victimization of Zac, Skye and Spike as they each deal with being bullied for simply being who they are. Wearing the Cloak of Courage gave them courage. The Cloak changed the way they felt about themselves. It transformed them physically. Slumped shoulders, downcast eyes and an air of defeat transformed instantaneously to heads held high, straight backs and a confidence purposely designed to deflect the predatory advances of a bully.