Nanny of 12 Years Debuts Cheerful Children's Picture Book Good Morning, Sunshine
SAN JOSE, CA, October 20, 2026 -- Longtime nanny and author JoAnn Grace announces the release of Good Morning, Sunshine, a rhythmic children's picture book that turns an ordinary morning into a joyful celebration. Written for toddlers and preschoolers, it is a warm read-aloud for bedtime stories, morning routines, and quiet moments at home or in the classroom.
The story unfolds in a large yellow room, where young readers greet everything around them: the fireplace, the bookshelf, the drapes, the toys, and even a cat chasing a rat. Each page pairs gentle rhyming text with a repeated "Good morning" refrain, inviting little ones to point, name, and join in.
Drawing on twelve years of hands-on childcare, JoAnn knows children thrive on repetition, rhyme, and rhythm. The book supports early literacy and vocabulary building by introducing familiar objects, colors, and shapes, while encouraging positive morning routines and gratitude. Parents, grandparents, nannies, and teachers will find it a feel-good picture book for any home library or classroom bookshelf.
"I dedicated this book to every child I have cared for, because each one is a blessing," says JoAnn. "I wanted to create a book that feels like a hug and a bright start to the day."
Its cheerful, accessible language suits new readers and reluctant listeners alike, turning the simple act of saying good morning into a shared moment between child and caregiver. At 24 pages of simple, sing-song text, Good Morning, Sunshine is a quick, cozy read that families will return to again and again.
Nanny-Turned-Author JoAnn Grace Releases Good Afternoon, Rain, a Gentle Picture Book About Stormy-Day Adventures
A cozy rainy day story that helps toddlers face thunder and lightning with wonder
Longtime nanny and author JoAnn Grace announces the release of Good Afternoon, Rain, a gentle children's picture book that helps toddlers meet thunder, lightning, and rain with curiosity instead of fear. Written as a read-aloud for toddlers and preschoolers, it is a cozy companion to her earlier book, Good Morning, Sunshine.
The story follows a group of toddlers watching a thunderstorm from a sunlit window. They long to go outside, but the wind and rain have other plans. As lightning flashes and thunder rumbles, the children feel both fear and wonder, and ask the questions every child asks: When will it stop? Why is it so loud and bright?
Rather than dismissing those worries, JoAnn answers with comfort and imagination. The children settle in with picture books, blocks, and a wooden train, build blanket forts, and turn a gray rainy day into an adventure. By the end, they greet the storm itself with a cheerful "Good afternoon, thunder, lightning, and rain."
Drawing on twelve years of hands-on childcare, JoAnn understands how big a storm can feel to a small child. The book supports emotional learning by naming feelings, while its rhyming text builds early literacy and vocabulary. Parents, grandparents, nannies, and teachers will also find fresh indoor play ideas for stormy weather.
"Storms can feel big and scary to little ones," says JoAnn. "I wanted to show that with a cozy space, a good book, and friends nearby, a rainy afternoon can become an adventure."
Availability
Good Afternoon, Rain and Good Morning, Sunshine will be available in print and digital formats through major book retailers and online platforms.
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About the Author
JoAnn Grace has loved children all her life. She began babysitting at age 12 and went on to raise four children of her own, who have since blessed her with grandchildren. For the past twelve years, she has worked as a nanny, caring for and learning from the little ones in her charge. As she nears 65, JoAnn plans to retire from nannying, but not from making a positive difference in children's lives. Becoming an author allows her to keep sharing joy, warmth, and love with little ones everywhere. Her heartfelt approach to storytelling comes from years of reading, singing, and playing with children.
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