The PennZone

PHILADELPHIA - PennZone -- From Author Meredith Newman comes a charming story about creativity, ingenuity, and giving back to one's community. Children of all ages will be captivated by the bright and engaging illustrations as they are drawn into the story. Find out how Mr. Small's clever idea turns a rainy day into fun as kids are once again able to play outside despite the rain after Mr. Small transforms a New York City playground into a covered oasis for the kids.

Parents and kids alike can enjoy the Extension Activities included at the back of the book as they reflect on the real-life application of the story. The extension activities offer a variety of writing, math, art, cognition, and science activities to explore with your child.

Join Mr. Small and his New York City pals on their rainy day adventure.

Mr. Small is based on the Newman family's dog, Stuart Newman. Stuart, or "Stu" as they affectionately call him at home, is a Coton de Tulear, a small breed dog, henceforth the name Mr. Small. Stu is an absolute delight! True to the breed's reputation, Stu acts "clownish" by standing on his hind legs and by dashing all over our house with what appears to be a smile on his face. He loves to play catch with his favorite toys, such as his gator, his monkey or his blue blankie!  He can be found cuddling up next to his family on the sofa and burying himself under pillows and blankets while they watch television together. Stu also enjoys barking at all the squirrels and birds that visit their back patio.  Although small, Stu is mighty!!

More on The PennZone

• The Eichelberger Performing Arts Center Announces 6 Youth Summer Camps
• Feldman Shepherd's Ezra Wohlgelernter Honored by SeniorLAW Center for Two Decades of Service
• Century Fasteners Corp. Exhibiting at 2026 MRO Americas Show – April 21-23, 2026 – Booth #2257
• Blue Sparrow Coffee named Best Matcha in Westword's Best of Denver 2026
• Ocean County College Introduces Pathways to Simplify the Student Journey and Strengthen Career Connections

Meredith Newman is a children's book author. She writes books with lovable, whimsical characters that incorporate beautiful illustrations and meaningful lessons for young audiences. Meredith graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Penn State University with a Bachelor's degree in English, and she completed a Master's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Pennsylvania. She taught early elementary school before starting her own family. Meredith married her high school sweetheart, and they have two children and a little dog named Stu, who are the inspiration for many of her stories. Meredith lives in Villanova, Pennsylvania and spends time in her favorite places, Jupiter, FL, and Stone Harbor, NJ. She enjoys cooking, reading/writing poetry, dreaming up children's book ideas, and playing tennis and golf with her family.

Carly Beck is the artist behind the vivid and lively illustrations found throughout the book. Carly lives in New York City and worked for several fashion designers before turning to painting. Her playful, vibrant works include pet portraits, interiors, exteriors, fabrics, and wallpapers. The acrylic-based paintings are inspired by vintage textiles, past and present fashion collections, and the daydreams of domesticated creatures.

More on The PennZone

• Kiko Nation Expands to Apple App Store, Achieving Full Mobile Deployment for Livestock Digital Registry Platform
• The Lawyers' Marketer Launches Claude AI Implementation Service for Law Firms
• Certified Trading Card Association and Collectors MD Launch Healthy Hobby Initiative
• Actress/Model Raelia Lewis Building a Powerful Name in Entertainment and Fashion
• L2 Aviation Earns FAA STC for Thales AVIATOR 200S for Boeing 777

The Lost Umbrellas of Lexington will be released worldwide on 4/5/2023 and is available everywhere books are sold. Connect with Meredith at: mak79@aol.com