Storybook
My Friend Cullen
My Friend Cullen is a gentle, heartfelt children’s book about friendship, understanding, and the beauty of differences.
Inspired by real experiences in the classroom, the story introduces young readers to Cullen and his classmate Marcie, two children who learn alongside one another and show us what it means to notice, ask questions, and grow in kindness. Cullen has Down syndrome, and Marcie—like every child—has her own differences, strengths, and ways of being in the world. Through simple moments of play, curiosity, and care, the story shows how friendship grows when children take the time to understand one another.
Written for children ages 4–7, My Friend Cullen opens the door to meaningful conversations about inclusion in a way that feels natural, hopeful, and age-appropriate. It’s a story for classrooms, families, and communities who want to raise children who see others with empathy, respond with compassion, and believe that everyone belongs.
At its heart, My Friend Cullen is a celebration of every child—of how we are all different, all worthy of belonging, and all capable of being a good friend.
For Children
Encourages curiosity without fear or judgment
Helps children understand that friends may communicate, move, or play differently
Reinforces that everyone belongs and deserves kindness
For Classrooms
Opens age-appropriate conversations about inclusion and disabilities
Supports social-emotional learning, empathy, and peer understanding
Helps teachers address questions children naturally ask in a respectful, positive way
For Families
Provides language to talk about differences with honesty and care
Encourages compassion, patience, and understanding at home
Offers reassurance to families navigating differences of their own
For Building Inclusive Communities
Models what it looks like to make room for one another
Shows that friendship grows when we take time to understand
Helps shape classrooms and communities where every child feels seen and valued