Children's Picture Book with Johnson City, New York Setting Released

Children's Book with New York Setting Released
Picture Book Aims to Empower Children Diagnosed with Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

JOHNSON CITY, N.Y. - October 22, 2025 - Abilities Publishing announces the release of Tiger and My Eye Patch, a children's picture book by longtime educator and independent journalist Colleen Lent. Using grade-school memories of being teased about her lazy eye, New York native Lent writes this uplifting and humorous story for children, especially those self-conscious about a physical difference or condition they believe separates them from their peers.

In Tiger and My Eye Patch, classmates nickname the protagonist Pee Wee the Pirate because she wears an eye patch and glasses to correct her lazy eye. Spending summer vacation with her grandparents and their mischievous Great Dane Tiger in Johnson City gives her a break from taunting. During Pee Wee's visit, Tiger causes several of his usual accidents due to his enthusiasm and size. When Tiger chases a squirrel into a busy street and causes traffic to halt, he needs serious help. It's the protagonist's distinct appearance that coaxes Tiger back to safety.

Lent said although children today are kinder and gentler than the classmates who called her Pee Wee the Pirate and Crossed-Eyed Colleen, she understands the worries of children diagnosed with amblyopia and other conditions. "Many students are reluctant to wear glasses or use other tools designed to assist them," Lent said. "They're concerned peers will laugh at them." She wrote Tiger and My Eye Patch to help young readers understand being different from peers isn't a weakness. Lent added bolstering confidence amongst children with visual impairments and other challenges can encourage them to consistently use assistive devices and tools designed to help them be successful.

As an elementary school educator and independent journalist, Lent has written numerous published articles about individuals conquering challenges and embracing kindness. Her articles have been featured in more than 20 different publications that include the New Hampshire Journal of Education, Woman's World, and Exceptional Parent Magazine. In addition, she's a contributing author to Chicken Soup for the Soul's book The Spirit of Christmas: 101 Joyful Holiday Stories that's benefiting Toys for Tots.

Lent holds a Master of Science communications degree, a Master of Elementary Education degree, and Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling certification. She has enjoyed teaching students aged 7 to 70 in public school and college classrooms and volunteering for nonprofits benefiting children, animals, and veterans.

Visit Abilities Publishing at www.abilitiespublishing.com or email contact@abilitiespublishing.com for more information. Tiger and My Patch is available through Amazon, IngramSpark, and other places books are sold.

Abilities Publishing
Post Office Box 662
Epping, New Hampshire 03042
contact@abilitiespublishing.com

Abilities Publishing recognizes research from health care and education experts revealing childhood is a critical developmental stage that will shape a young person's ability to learn, grow, and cope in different life situations. Abilities Publishing focuses on teaching positive thinking through relatable characters and engaging stories to help children focus on their abilities and possibilities and strengthen their social-emotional learning skills.

This release was published on openPR.