‘It feels surreal’: Halifax author self-publishes her first children’s book

A Halifax author hopes to help young readers navigate big emotions in a gentle way.

Writing a children’s book is not something Alissa Comeau ever planned to do. It’s a passion she says found her, and one she wants to share with the world.

She self-published “My Anger is a Wave - A Crystal Crescent Adventure,” a book that focuses on emotional regulation.

“I often lean on my dog Draco. He’s a very gentle soul. Whenever I’m just going through high emotions or stress, whether it’s from school or work or life, I kind of lean on him,” says Comeau.

She says the book’s ode to Nova Scotia’s breathtaking views was an important element to include.

“I often go to the coast, whether it’s Crystal Crescent Beach, Duncan’s Cove or otherwise. I just go there and let the waves come and go with my emotions,” she says. “I just think it’s very important for emotional well-being to be able to go to nature in that way and just connect.”

The book is illustrated by a Nova Scotian artist, and Comeau says it’s designed as a keepsake-quality hardcover that families can return to over time.

She adds she has been able to connect with families, educators, and community spaces across the region, with a focus on emotional wellness for children using the ocean as an anchor.

“I wanted to give them a tool early on to be able to process these emotions. Anger is natural. It’s not that they’re going to avoid it, but just to move through it gently and with grace and to be able to overcome it in a healthy way,” she says.

Comeau is already working on a second book, while she relishes in the success her first one is having.

The book is available on shelves at Indigo Chapters Bayers Lake, where she will host a book signing on May 2, at 2 p.m.

“It feels surreal, honestly. I knew that maybe some local, smaller shops might pick it up, but to have it here in a big store is just amazing. I’m so excited.”

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