Susie Tries

Inspired by the real-life story of coach Susan Bradley-Cox, Susie Tries follows an 8-year-old girl as she runs her first triathlon for cancer awareness. Through Susie's example, kids will learn to set — and achieve — ambitious goals for themselves, whether they're supporting a cause they admire or participating in their first race.This fun, colorful picture-filled story is more than just a kid's triathlon book — it's a story of the power of persistence and the joy that comes from reaching a goal.Kids and adults alike will love the upbeat rhymes that make up this story, and everyone will turn the final page learning a vital life lesson about making a difference in their own lives and lives of others.Besides teaching kids about goals, Susie Tries is also a kid's book about cancer. Through the eyes of a young girl wanting to make others aware of this disease, kids will learn their actions can support people with cancer.The author began her journey to fight against cancer by running a marathon and two triathlons, raising $10,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Her inspiration for Susie Tries was her grandfather, who passed away after battling Lymphoma. Triathlons focus on activities children love: swimming, riding a bike, and running. Susie Tries give kids encouragement to run their own race. Because winning is about an accomplishment, not a score, triathlons teach kids self-confidence, motivation, a healthy lifestyle, and compassion for others. Perfect for children between the ages of four and seven, Susie Tries will inspire high goals — like curing cancer — and the persistence to succeed.

Jennifer Mary Watson has a Doctor of Education in Instructional Systems Design and a Masters of Science in Educational Psychology from the University of Kentucky. With a passion for teaching, learning, and instructional design, she has dedicated herself to supporting projects that foster positive youth development. Susie Tries encourages young people to feel empowered by accomplishing goals and fighting for causes they care about. The book was inspired by Jennifer's real-life triathlon coach, Susan (Susie) Bradley-Cox, who has mentored and inspired hundreds of athletes throughout her career. Susie's perseverance and determination greatly inspires and encourages all who she meets to never give up.Jennifer resides in Cary, NC with her daughter Julia. She actively works to raise awareness about cancer -- both through this picture book and her personal work with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. For more information, including the story behind the book, please go to susietries.com.