Cody's Whisper


Children - Picture Book
32 Pages
Reviewed on 10/31/2025
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Malia Grace is a writer, nature lover, and soulful storyteller who believes in the healing power of quiet moments. Inspired by her own journey of emotional healing, self-discovery, and connection to the earth, she writes stories that help children and grown-ups alike remember the magic that lives within and all around us.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite

Cody’s Whisper by Malia Grace is a gentle story about a young coyote named Cody who feels overwhelmed by the noisy school around him and struggles to fit in. Longing for a safe haven, he slips into the forest, where he follows the hushed call of his own whisper—a soft, inner voice guiding him toward discovery. While in the wilderness, he meets some enchanting beings, including a wise moon, a resilient tree, a playful creek, and other thoughtful creatures. He asks each one a question as he seeks to understand the world and himself better. Each one teaches him valuable lessons about resilience, calm, and being true to himself, like how to stay steady when things get tough, or how being quiet can be its own kind of strength. Will Cody ever be comfortable in the loud environment he lives in, or will he have to stay in the woods to find tranquility? This heartfelt tale is perfect for children and adults alike, exploring themes of self-acceptance, inner peace, and the discovery of one’s unique radiance.

Cody’s Whisper by Malia Grace is a very charming and thought-provoking story. I found myself relating to Cody even though he was not human. As an educator, I believe it could be a fantastic conversation starter on kindness, accepting oneself, empathy, and emotional regulation. It naturally leads into extension activities like nature walks inspired by the main character’s journey, mindfulness exercises like deep breathing, or having students write about what makes their own “whisper” special. Kids enjoy stories with animals, so this is an excellent choice for reading not only in the classroom, but at home, too. The book is beautifully illustrated by Lauren Elise Reeves, who incorporates soothing colors into the serene scenes, bringing this natural world to life. I also appreciate the quote Malia Grace writes near the end, “Let your light shine—it’s the spark that can help brighten the light in others,” as it is the very heart of the tale.

Carol Thompson

Cody’s Whisper by Malia Grace explores themes of self-acceptance, inner strength, and the wisdom found in nature. The story follows Cody, a young coyote who feels out of place in a noisy world. Struggling with his quiet nature and stuttering, Cody begins a journey into the forest to find answers to his feelings of insecurity and loneliness. Through his encounters with the Moon, Sun, Creek, Tree, Fox, Owl, Wolf, Butterfly, and Deer, Cody learns important lessons about embracing his uniqueness, finding strength in his quietness, and facing life’s challenges with patience and courage. Each forest friend offers wise advice, teaching Cody that his light shines brightly even if it’s soft, and that obstacles can be overcome with persistence and trust in himself.

Malia Grace’s writing is gentle and uplifting, making complex emotions easy for young readers to grasp. It’s a book that encourages children to slow down, listen, and learn wisdom from their environment. The serene tone and poetic dialogue create a calming experience, and the vibrant illustrations by Lauren Elise Reeves bring the forest and its creatures to life. The story also emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature as a source of comfort and inspiration. Along with the story, the author offers practical calming techniques for children, such as breathing exercises, sensory activities, and mindfulness practices. These suggestions are thoughtfully included, making the book a useful resource for parents and educators who want to help children manage stress and emotions. Cody’s Whisper is a perfect read for anyone seeking a meaningful story about self-acceptance and the beauty of nature.