Just the Way I Am

Subtitle
A Sam the School Bus Story

In Just the Way I Am, readers meet Sabrina, a brand-new school bus brimming with anticipation for her very first day on the job. Determined to win the children’s approval, she devises an ambitious plan, each day she will dress in a different theme. One morning, she’s a rockstar, the next a carpenter. By the end of the week, though, Sabrina discovers the truth: trying to reinvent herself daily is exhausting, and ultimately unnecessary. The children don’t admire her costumes, they cherish her for who she truly is.

Bios

Karin LaScola is a former educator, TV news reporter and producer whose love of storytelling took root in newsrooms from Eureka, California to Norfolk, Virginia to Phoenix, Arizona. In each role, she developed a deep appreciation for clear, engaging writing an appreciation that eventually led her to a second career centered on children and literacy. Her path shifted when she left the broadcast world to focus on raising her daughters, Dania and Alena. It was during those years that her attention turned to children's literature. Working as a reading support instructor at Kyrene Elementary School and Horizon Community Learning Centers, she saw firsthand the challenges young learners faced. That experience inspired her to pursue a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Literacy from Arizona State University, which she completed in 2017.The idea for Sam the School Bus was sparked by the simple sight of a yellow bus climbing the hill near her home each morning and afternoon. As the stories unfolded in her mind, she knew it was time to bring Sam's world to life-made even more exciting by the serendipitous partnership with a passionate and dedicated illustrator.She hopes readers will grow just as fond of Sam and his friends as she has and invites families to visit SamtheSchoolbus.com for early literacy tips and fun activities to enjoy with their children.

Madison Grayson-Kopp is a largely self-taught illustrator who has long used art as a way to express herself, from sketchbooks and doodles to oil painting, charcoal, and even glass fusing. While most of her art education happened in middle and high school, she later squeezed in a college class or two between engineering courses at ASU. Though experienced in traditional media, she approached digital illustration as a new challenge, learning through curiosity, determination, and many YouTube tutorials. When a close family friend shared the idea for The Adventures of Sam the School Bus, a series celebrating individuality and kindness Madison immediately connected with the theme. Their collaboration led to Just the Way I Am, a warm, lighthearted book for children beginning school or discovering confidence in who they are. Madison lives in Phoenix, Arizona, with her husband, dog, and cat. By day, she's a professional engineer; by night, a devoted artist excited to share this creative side of herself with the world.

Praise for this book

Beyond its moral, the book layers in delightful educational touches. The days of the week appear in vibrant illustrations, while playful rhymes and colorful word art immerse young readers further. Orange for “carpenter,” shimmering blue for “jewel,” these choices create a multisensory experience that reinforces early learning. Parents and caregivers will find Sabrina’s story a natural springboard for conversations about friendship, nerves, and individuality.

Warm, uplifting, and filled with heart, Just the Way I Am resonates with both children and adults.

Literary Titan

... my first impressions of this book were the absolutely beautiful and charming illustrations. They really draw you into the world of the school bus route. Plus, the soft edges and cartoon playfulness really will be appealing to younger minds.

I really like the theme for the picture book. All the different ways Sabrina tried to present herself for school was a great way to make her relatable and emphasize the theme of being yourself. I loved the educational tie-ins for days of the week and showing how teamwork is important.

Tiffany Turner The Indie Children's Authors Connection