Supporting Emotional Development Through Story
Pearlway books are intentionally written to align with early childhood social-emotional
learning goals. Each story provides language, structure, and relatable experiences that
help children identify emotions and practice healthy regulation strategies.
Our stories are designed to complement classroom discussions, literacy instruction, and
SEL programming.
Meet Dezi
Books have always been more than stories to me — they’ve been steady companions.
I write children’s books for the child who needs reassurance, the parent who wants
understanding, and the teacher who wants meaningful conversation in the classroom.
As the founder of Pearlway, my mission is simple: to create stories that support
emotional growth and celebrate children exactly as they are.
My books center on confidence, learning differences, and the power of finding your
voice. Cassidy & the Mixed-Up Numbers is just the beginning.
Through every story I write, I hope children feel seen,capable, and encouraged — like they’re walking alongside a trusted friend.
Featured & Recognized
Cassidy and the Mixed-Up Numbers by Dezi Shepperd was selected for inclusion in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill STEMIE Curated Disability & STEM Booklist.
The STEMIE (STEM + Inclusion + Equity) Center curates books that support inclusive learning, highlight diverse thinkers, and promote early STEM conversations for young children.
This curated list is designed to support educators, librarians, and families in selecting developmentally appropriate books that encourage confidence, representation, and academic growth.
Recognized by:
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This curated list is designed to support educators, librarians, and families in selecting developmentally appropriate books that encourage confidence, representation, and academic growth.
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
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STEMIE Center
Our Books
Pearlway titles are developed to support early childhood emotional literacy and
classroom engagement
Author Visits & Literacy Events
nteractive presentations that combine storytelling, guided discussion, and practical
emotional learning tools for young students.
