"You don't have to impress. Just express." -Bea
Singing and flying may seem like they would come naturally to a songbird, but Rufus is having a hard time leaving his nest and finding his voice. When a curious honeybee named Bea notices his difficulties, she offers her help. Together, the two take on the brave act of singing, one simple step at a time, and before long, Rufus has gained confidence-and a new best friend.
From the husband-and-wife musical duo and cocreators of Tiny Prime, the Rufus & Bea series helps families and friends enjoy the simple ritual of singing songs together, all while cultivating positive mental health and well-being for children. Perfect for early readers or reading (and singing!) aloud, each story features gorgeous illustrations and connects with a special song that children can enjoy listening to and singing along with.
About the Author :
Tiny Prime is a world of music, books, and tools that promote children’s mental health and family connection. It’s debut property, Rufus & Bea, follows the adventures of a songbird learning to sing with the help of an exuberant honeybee, and the supportive friends they meet along the way.
Lisa Tucker Cummins began her professional singing career at a young age. She performed in the musical production of Disney’s The Lion King at age ten and progressed to the top ten on season five of American Idol at age sixteen. Now an indie-folk singer-songwriter and mother of two young boys, Lisa believes in the value of meeting children where they are and fiercely defending their right to remain curious and engaged in the world throughout childhood and the rest of their lives. She lives with her husband and two sons in Nashville.
Ryan Cummins has spent over two decades building purpose-driven companies and philanthropic campaigns that spark global change. He is the founder of a private advisory firm that helps entrepreneurs and philanthropic families increase their impact, and he is a cofounder of Omaze, a global fundraising platform that pushes beyond traditional models of philanthropy. He also currently serves as special advisor to the Lieber Institute for Brain Development at Johns Hopkins University. Ryan is eternally grateful for the experience of fatherhood, which inspired his newfound passion for writing songs and children’s stories. He lives with his wife and two boys in Nashville.
Review :
“As a researcher focused on the genetics of mental health and the home environment’s impact on early brain development, I see Rufus & Bea not just as a story but as a tool for parents and caregivers. The seeds of mental wellness are sown in childhood, and this book—with its focus on self-discovery, music, relationships, and the joy of learning—offers an invaluable resource for positively impacting the mental health trajectory of our children.” —Dr. Daniel Weinberger, CEO and founding director of the Lieber Institute for Brain Development at Johns Hopkins University
“The story of Rufus and Bea is a treasure trove of warmth and wisdom, inviting readers of all ages to join them on a journey of discovery, laughter, and song. This literary adventure, layered with whimsical illustrations and memorable melodies, offers a robust opportunity for encouraging connection and nurturing young hearts.” —Katie Brourman, pediatric speech and language pathologist and founder of Small Strides
“Rhyming narration and uncomplicated wordplay ensure a lively storytime. . . . Bring this one out to remind young ones that you don’t have to be good at something to have fun doing it.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
