Declan Grows Up: It's Just Not Fair

by C. Austin Lee, Quinn Feeney Lee (Illustrator)

Written by C. Austin Lee and illustrated by Quinn Feeney Lee, this story illustrates that life is not always fair. We are all born with different God-given skills, gifts and talents. We don't always get the skills and talents we wish we had, but the secret to life is discovering what our gifts are and learning how to use them to help ourselves and those around us. The Little Lion Declan is frustrated that he can't dunk a basketball like Joey the giraffe but comes to realize that he has many other talents that he can grow and develop to help him throughout his life.

A Discussion Guide and Activity Section are included with the story to assist in reinforcing the book's lesson.

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

First published December 18, 2012

About the author

C. Austin Lee grew up outside Philadelphia, earned a BS in Biology and Business Administration from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA and moved to New York City where he earned a MBA from Pace University and advanced through positions of increasing responsibility in sales, marketing, management and business strategy in the biotech and medical device industries.

Austin was fortunate to have had strong parents, teachers, mentors and coaches to guide him throughout his life and has always tried to do the same for others. He has had the privilege of working with excellent organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America, his church, the West End Youth Center (as a wrestling coach), Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Westchester Children’s Association.

Austin developed the Declan the Lion Series and the American Values Publishing Company, Inc. to help children build a strong foundation of self esteem and values that will allow them to achieve success in their lives.

C. Austin Lee currently resides in Newport Beach, California with his wife Nicole and dogs Bentley and Calvin. He is the oldest of 17 grandchildren and enjoys spending time with his family including his Aunt Quinn, the illustrator and his nephew and Godson, Declan.

Reviews

[Brittney Glore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book from a giveaway on Goodreads, in return for an honest review. So, to be honest, I really liked this book. I can't wait to read it to my daughter. The only part that kind of got to me was when Declan's mom told him that singing was definitely not one of his talents. I just thought that could have been worded a little differently or that something positive could've been added to it. But other than that, the book was very much worth it. Thank you so much for the chance to read about Declan and his gifts.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book because friends just named their son Declan and I wondered if it was something I should send them for fun. It is a sweet book (that looks as if it is/will be part of a series) that emphasizes - slams one with - the positive, in this case strengths vs. weaknesses. But perfect for its audience, comforting and cozy with simple, colorful illustrations. I will definitely introduce my new little friend Declan to the book/series.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

As soon as I got the book I read it to my sister and she loved it. I think the moral of the book is exactly what we should be teaching children and the book makes it fun for the kids to learn. I plan to read this to my sister over and over. Great book and great illustrations.

[C Austin Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book to parents looking to teach their children how to find and grow their their gifts, skills and abilities.