Reviews & Press

Reviews, reader praise, and media highlights for Secrets That Sparkle (and Secrets That Sting) — a children’s book helping families talk about safe and unsafe secrets with care, courage, and confidence.

Kirkus Reviews

“The book reassures readers they will never be blamed for what happened or for sharing the ‘secret.’ Stephenson-Laws approaches a potentially tricky topic with empathy and actionable guidelines… The author’s reassuring words pair well with the images’ soft colors, resulting in a calming yet encouraging approach to a difficult issue.”

“A thoughtful primer for children that comfortingly and articulately explains a delicate topic.”

✓ GET IT - Verdict from Kirkus Reviews’ Awards & Accolades.

Editorial Review

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Asher I. Johnson, PhD

“With perfect balance of delicacy, protectiveness, and encouragement, the author not only helps the readers understand the types of secrets, she wisely teaches our kids how to trust their instincts. This is the validation children need to not carry the burden of inappropriate secrets while knowing it’s healthy to participate in certain secrets. This book makes it easy for a child to discern between types of secrets as well as informs parents, educators, and anyone else who love children how to approach the topic.”

Professional Review | Clinical & Forensic Psychologist

Animated woman with gray hair, red glasses, and a red polka-dot headband sitting at a wooden table working on a colorful jigsaw puzzle in a cozy, well-lit room with wooden furniture and decorative ceramics.

Joy Stephenson Laws opens up about her heartfelt picture book, Secrets That Sparkle, Secrets That Sting. She reveals the importance of emotional safety for kids, the challenges parents face in supporting open communication, and practical tips for fostering trust at home. Joy’s personal experiences as a parent and attorney shine through as she guides listeners toward healthier conversations with their children.

“Ms. Penny Pickles Puzzle Quest” | November 24, 2025 | Hosted by Jed Doherty

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

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Podcast cover art featuring the episode number 124 and the title "Joy" by Stephenson-Laws, focused on conscious anti-racism with Dr. Jill Wener, MD, against a colorful background with speech bubbles and a heart graphic.

Conscious Anti-Racism Podcast

Episode 124: Joy Stephenson-Laws | December 2, 2025 | Hosted by Dr. Jill Wener, MD

In this episode, Jill interviews Joy Stephenson-Laws, author of Secrets That Sparkle (and Secrets That Sting). This book is a resource for parents, educators, and therapists to start early conversations about body autonomy, unsafe touch, and emotional trust, all in a way that’s age-appropriate and empowering. Dr. Jill and Joy talk about the importance of teaching kids to communicate when they're not feeling safe.