So Careful
Anna Brotherson & Helen Flook
Category: Children's Picture Book
Hardcover | 40 pages | 979-8-90115-011-5
Trim Size: 8.5” H x 10.3” W
Publication Date: April 7tn, 2026
List Price: $18.99 USD
Publisher: Starfish Bay® Publishing
Genre: Realistic Fiction / Family Story
Reading Level: Grade 1-2
Interest Level: Grades PreK-3
Guided Reading Level: J
Lexile® Measure: 460L
Accelerated Reader® Level/Poin: 2.3/0.5

Imaginative Ruby-Anne is tasked with delivering a casserole to Grandma in this unique spin on Little Red Riding Hood. 

Ruby-Anne is a small girl with a big imagination. When her mother asks her to deliver a casserole to Grandma’s house, Ruby-Anne knows from fairy tales that dangers may lurk on the path. She gathers her courage, does her research, and scours the house for resources. But will all her preparations be enough? 
So Careful is a hilarious and warm story that celebrates imagination, risk-taking, and resilience. The quirky, detailed artwork beautifully captures and extends the story.

Born and raised in Tasmania, Anna Brotherson studied linguistics and Classical Greek at the Australian National University. She has since worked as a public servant, Bible storyteller, childbirth doula, and Koine Greek teacher. She developed a love for quality children’s literature during early motherhood, as it afforded her a delightful way to spend time with her children while sitting down. Anna and her family live in Sydney, Australia.

Helen Flook is an illustrator from North Wales, UK. After graduating in Graphic Design from Norwich School of Art, she worked throughout Europe on archaeology sites and managed a RSPB center in North Wales. She later moved to Canada with the intention of becoming an illustrator. Now back in Wales, she has illustrated over one hundred books including two of her own and one award-winning title in 2014.

Key Features:
  • A funny, heart-warming twist on Little Red Riding Hood.
  • Ruby-Anne’s resourcefulness and courage will inspire young readers who face their own anxieties.
  • Dynamic illustrations perfectly capture the fun and emotion of this hilarious adventure.
Themes:
  • Imagination vs. Reality
  • Overactive imagination and anxiety
  • Over-preparation for simple tasks
  • Fairy tale influence on perception
  • Growing up and independence
  • Humor in everyday situations
  • Things don't go as planned
  • Intergenerational relationships and family care
  • The power of stories and literacy
  • Learning to laugh at yourself
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