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A gentle story in verse that will help children who are experiencing school refusal and school-related anxiety.

There are a million things that don’t have to go to school—birds don’t have to go, and neither do sunflowers! I don’t want to go to school.

But through imaginative reasoning, logic, and lyrical prose, we can learn to understand how school is not only important, but it’s also a place where we WANT to be.

No School, My Rules!

Stephanie Henson

Mai Tran

"Those who struggle in school will like this book. But it doesn’t all end there with doom and gloom. The colorful pictures by Mai Tran and Henson's insightful ideas also teach children the benefits of education without diminishing the effort involved in graduating. "

Reader's Favorite 5-Star Review

"Often, parents overlook the issues of school phobia and anxiety that many children face. No School, My Rules! will help children learn to cope with anxiety and enjoy school. The illustrations by Mai Tran are excellent and reinforce the desire to be anxiety-free. One of the best tools in combating anxiety is knowing you don’t suffer alone but share your fears with many, many other children."

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In addition to supporting reforestation efforts across North America, a portion of the sales from this book will go to support :

Mallory's Army Foundation

Book Information:


  • ISBN:  978-1-7382193-1-5

  • Page Count: 48

  • Genre: Informational Fiction

  • Date Published:  August 15th, 2024

  • Themes: School Refusal; Imagination and Play

  • Book Size: 8.5 x 8.5

  • Price (CAD): $21.99

  • Binding Type: Hardcover

  • Language(s): English

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Other 5-Star Reviews:


The main character in this book knows the rules: kids must go to school. But she decides she wants to re-write the rules. Through verses she makes a solid argument on why she should not have to go to school. If birds don't have to go to school, why should she? This adds sprinkles of humor and admiration for nature to the book. Eventually, the young girl releases her argument isn't as strong as she thought. She realizes instead of gaining something temporary or temperamental she can develop long lasting skills." —Bailey 



No School, My Rules by Stephanie Henson is the perfect read aloud for grown-ups with students who are anxious about school. Through the eyes of a young girl that just really doesn't like school, the story gives examples of things in the world that don't have to go to school. All of this spun in a way that is persuasive as she declares "No school, my rules." The story shifts as the main character realizes the consequence of no school and how school can help her become bold and bright. The story is beautifully lyrically written, but in a childlike voice." —Kellie 



A charming story that showcases the frustrations of going to school while revealing its importance in building independence and confidence. The playful text and kid-friendly illustrations make this serious topic approachable and fun, opening the door for meaningful discussions about education."—Elizabeth
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