About the Book
Meet Sam Rockwood, a brave third grader who knows his way around the hospital. He's had surgeries before, but this time, something magical unfolds. This story is a love letter to all kids navigating their own medical journeys, the doctors who help heal them, and those around them who continue to be inspired by their strength.
As Sam prepares for bone graft surgery, a common craniofacial surgery around ages 8-10, he is worried about being sidelined from his favorite activities. But an unexpected twist brings new perspective.
Blending humor, warmth, and imagination, "The Sparkle You Carry" fosters empathy while reminding children with craniofacial differences that they are not just seen, but celebrated. The book is proud to be used by craniofacial teams and as a part of the myFace tinyFaces backpack program, helping support families on their medical journeys.
This story is a meaningful addition to classrooms, speech therapy offices, pediatric medical settings, and family bookshelves alike.
About the Author
Since childhood, snippets of stories swirled around Stacy's mind, often distracting her from "the real work" of life. She can still smell the dusty library of St Agatha's, a now shuttered school, where she spent her childhood.
As both a teacher and writer, Stacy has always viewed children as the main characters of their own unique stories. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism/Mass Communications and a Master's degree in Childhood Education. Over the past 15 years, she has worked as a special educator at the elementary level and currenlty works at the preschool level. As a preschool special education teacher, she is inspired by the resilience, imagination, and everyday growth of young children.
Stacy writes heartfelt, inclusive stories that celebrate the small moments that shape childhood. She prides herself on noticing the moments in children's lives that feel enormous to them but are often overlooked by adults.
Her debut book, "The Sparkle You Carry" was inspired by her son's craniofacial journey.
Stacy lives in Western New York with her husband, Mike, their two sons named Andrew and Benjamin, and a rambunctionus Labrador Retriever.
WHERE THE BOOK IS Traveling
A Smile for Every Child
The Sparkle You Carry: A Cleft Lip and Palate Journey is honored to be a part of myFace's "tinyFaces backpack" program. Through the program, the book is being shared alongside essential supplies with craniofacial families receiving care at craniofacial centers throughout the U.S.
Learn about the book
Book Cover
Illustrator
Kseniia Kudriavtseva is a children’s book illustrator whose work blends warmth, humor, and a touch of magic. She has collaborated with publishers worldwide, creating art that celebrates love, family, inclusivity, and care for the planet. Her illustrations are known for their gentle storytelling, where even the smallest details carry meaning and invite readers to linger on every page.
Recent Reviews
"Whether you're a parent educator, or just someone who believes in the power of kindness and courage, this book is a must-read. It's a warm hug in story form - uplifting, inclusive, and deeply inspiring." - J. Dash
"A wonderful book for children of all ages. This story provides details of Sam’s medical journey which are helpful for both kids who are undergoing the procedures and also for any kids who are observing a friend or family member go through the process. Truly it is a great story for anyone looking to gain some insight into the cleft journey and for any family looking to teach inclusion and empathy to their children." - J. Hilliker
Purple Dahlia Press LLC
Purple Dahlia Press is rooted in empathy and inspired by the everyday moments that shape childhood. Through heartfelt stories, we celebrate kindness, connection, courage, and the many ways children shine.