Amanda Spiers

Amanda Taylor Spiers is originally from Roanoke, Virginia. At the young age of seven, she knew she wanted to be an artist. Amanda earned bachelor’s degrees in studio art and English literature from Virginia Tech, and a master’s degree in art education from Radford University, fulfilling her lifelong dream. In addition to painting and illustrating, Amanda has taught art for many years in schools and privately to all ages. She now lives in Midlothian, Virginia, with her husband and their two children.

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Books

A Jar Full of Kisses

$21.95

story by Heather Bennett

illustrations by Amanda Spiers

Prickles is the happiest little hedgehog—except when she has to say goodbye. She loves her mom and dad more than anything, so one whole night without them seems like forever. Stick with Prickles to learn how to make goodbyes so much easier!

PRAISE FOR A JAR FULL OF KISSES:

“A Jar Full of Kisses is a beautifully illustrated book that exemplifies nurturing parent support for children with separation anxiety.”

      ~ Dr. Jennifer D. Clark, M.D.

“A Jar Full of Kisses is perfect for any child who is struggling with separation from loved ones! This book would be a great addition to a teacher’s or guidance counselor’s toolkit when a student is having a difficult time with the transition back to school.”

     ~ Carrie Wilson, third-grade teacher

“I wish I had this sweet book while raising my two kids who went through separation anxiety. As a preschool teacher now, this will be a must-read in my classroom the first week of school! The story about Prickles is relatable for kids, and the illustrations are beautifully done.”

      ~ Dawn Carson, preschool teacher

“A Jar Full of Kisses is such a cute story. I think it will help many kids who are afraid or sad when Mom and Dad are at work. All children can suffer from loneliness and this will be a nice bedtime story to help.”

      ~ Debbie Young, teacher

“A Jar Full of Kisses will be helpful in my counseling practice as we work through anxiety and fears with children. I like that the story presents a practical, tangible solution for kids to use as they struggle with their own fears.”

      ~ Julie Fletcher, MA, Resident in Counseling, Wellspring Christian Counseling, LLC

“I dearly love this sweet little book! A Jar Full of Kisses is a tender, loving story—a simple help for all parents who want to leave their children feeling secure and loved. I, too, have children who needed A Jar Full of Kisses when they were little. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful story of a special hedgehog family.”

      ~ Tanja Cottrell, Director, Child Development Center

“Prickles, an adorable hedgehog, is sure to be loved—especially by children who struggle with goodbyes.”

      ~ Kristen Ryan, nanny

“There are many “dos” and “don’ts” when children are anxious. In A Jar Full of Kisses, Prickles’ parents avoid the “don’ts” by respecting Prickles’ feelings. Instead of trying to eliminate Prickles’ anxiety, they find a way to manage it, thereby empowering their child instead of her fears.”

      ~ Dr. Ted Abernathy, M.D., FAAP

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