Helping children discover who they are - one story at a time. 170+ books donated & counting.

Professionals trust and use it.

“We have shared Jen’s book with refugee children and refugee families with children. They have universally loved the colorful pictures of the animal characters (my favorite - the calming donkey). The story of self-discovery and community kindness resonates with the children as well as adults. We look forward to Jen’s next book!”
- Reagan Davis on behalf of the Agency for New Americans

“I am using this book to teach self-awareness and other awareness. It is good for opening discussions about mindfulness when we are anxious…The book also does a great job of being open-ended, allowing kids to explore their own thoughts and create their own narrative.”
- Kid’s Therapist

“One mom loved this book so much she took one home for her own healing journey, then returned to get a copy for each of her children - writing them each a personal message inside. Other families are reading it together at home. It’s been a hit.”
- Lead Case Manager, Local Family Advocacy Organization

“My students loved the book! They loved the pictures and connected well with the positive messages”
- Elementary School Teacher

“Your story and the attention behind your book truly align with our mission. The work you’re doing is beautiful, and we’re excited to have this resource in our space.”
- Lead Clinician, Community Support Organization

“The Boise Pediatrics Clinic loved your books - and so do I! Thank you so much!!"
- Lead Coordinator, Local Hospital

Readers enjoy it.

“I love how you use such a simple story to deliver such a powerful message”

“A book everyone should have in their library!”

“I loved the artwork; she should sell prints! And the paper quality was amazing!”

Communities are using it to help others.

“I donated these books to students at a Minneapolis elementary school as they head into summer after an incredibly difficult year. My hope is that this story brings children a sense of comfort, courage and connection during a time that can feel uncertain.”

- Friend of the school

Community Impact

A woman sitting on a stack of books, reading a magazine, with her feet on another stack of books, barefoot, in front of a white wall.

Running Back To Me was created to help children feel brave, understood, and confident in who they are.

Through individual purchases and donated copies, books are reaching children in our local community and beyond.

Where the books have been donated:

  • Women’s & Children’s Alliance (WCA)

  • Faces of Hope (Boise & Meridian)

  • Agency for New Americans (Boise)

  • St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital

  • Boise School District

  • Saint Alphonsus Inpatient Behavioral Health

  • Giraffe Laugh

  • Saint Alphonsus Hospital

Each donated book is personally coordinated to ensure it reaches children who may benefit most - including those in shelters, schools and counseling settings.

Available Locally:

You can also find Running Back To Me at:

  • G. Willikers Toy Emporium (Boise, Idaho)

  • Toy Pop (Boise, Idaho)

  • White Rabbit Mobile Bookstore (Boise, Idaho)

Printed locally in Boise, Idaho, this project is rooted in community and support by families who believe in emotional wellness for children.

Please contact us if you would like to discuss a specific recipient and/or if you are interested in bulk orders larger than 140 books.

JZ LLC is a for-profit business and is not a registered non-profit organization. Purchases and donations made through this website are not tax deductible.