“My hope is that children will grow and learn while reading my books. If they are smiling, imagining new possibilities and growing in hope along the way, I’ve accomplished what I’ve set out to do.”
- Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney, Owner
Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney creates warm and caring connections between young and old, neurotypical and neurodiverse, and the shy and outgoing. She often sees herself in her young students, especially the ones who sometimes struggle with big feelings. That inspired her to write stories that incorporate self-care strategies for children (and their parents and caregivers).
With a Bachelor's degree in Human Services and over 30 years of experience working with children and families, she's committed to making a difference in the lives of others. Her professional journey includes teaching English Language Arts, and a decade with the Boys & Girls Clubs Movement, where she thrived as a Director of Membership and Marketing at a local Club, and later as an Implementation Specialist for the National Organization, BGCA.
Even though she is a busy educator, speaker, artist, writer, and creative coach, she remains passionate about her faith, service to others, and her beautiful, diverse family.
Coming in October 2026!
The Shy Giraffe is having a challenging day at school. Despite her best efforts to learn and enjoy time with her classmates, her feelings sometimes spill over in ways that make others think she’s a "bad giraffe." But Shy Giraffe isn’t alone—she discovers that Sometimes, We Need Help With Feelings! This heartwarming, beautifully illustrated story follows Shy Giraffe as she navigates her feelings and seeks the emotional support she needs.. Join her on this poignant journey, and learn with her that it’s okay to ask for help when things feel overwhelming.
Author
Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney
Publication Date
October 2026
Illustrator
Dawn Rossi
Age Range
3 - 7
The Shy Giraffe explores happy places near and far, in this poignant, imaginative adventure. Beautiful rhymes and characters invite readers to imagine their favorite, happy places while teaching a helpful emotional wellness strategy. "Everyone needs a happy place. A place to feel joy, a place to escape. A happy place is a place that you choose. A place to feel safe just being you." You'll want to have this beautiful book in your collection, as a favorite story and an inviting journey to magical, beautiful and happy places. Written by Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney and illustrated by Dawn Rossi, this children's picture book will delight and inspire the young and the young at heart.
“I love how Rothenberg-Whitney guides the reader in navigating their imagination to discover and explore their "happy place." In therapy, we've encouraged clients to go to their "happy place" when they need help grounding themselves and regulating their emotions. This strategy helps them manage and cope with unpleasant feelings effectively, and this book supports this strategy gracefully. Tell Me About Your Happy Place is more than just a book; it's a powerful tool that fosters healthy minds, souls, and spirits.” -Elisabeth Roman, MSW
Author
Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney
Publication Date
April 2, 2025
ISBN
978-1-963453-02-7
Illustrator
Dawn Rossi
Age Range
3 - 7
Series
Shy Giraffe Stories, #1
NEW Fairy Garden Coloring Book!
Tell Me About Your Happy Place FAIRY GARDEN COLORING BOOK (recommended for Pre-teen and up due to level of detail)
This beautifully illustrated coloring book, created by Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney depicts Fairy Gardens from the Springfield Garden Club's 2024 "Magical Fairy Garden Tour" event. The artwork is inspired by original designs crafted by members of the Springfield Garden Club, who are credited on each page. In addition to the artwork, Haabiba shares her original poetic story encouraging emotional wellness and self-care through the power of imagination.
Author/Illustrator
Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney
Publication Date
April 2, 2025
Age Range
Pre-teen - Adult
ISBN
978-1-963453-07-2
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