Grace isn't sure who she is, or how to feel good in her own skin and embrace the girl she sees in the mirror. Is she the sporty girl who loves competition, like her friend Emma? The smart one with all the answers, like Lilly? Or maybe the effortlessly funny one, like her new friend Anna? And when it comes to showing up with confidence for anything, from tryouts to her new volunteering gig, the questions only get louder.Everyone around her seems to know exactly who they are, but Grace just feels... invisible.
That is, until she finds a mysterious mirror hidden in her attic (yes, really!) and gets a surprise journaling assignment from her teacher that sends her on the ultimate quest. Suddenly, Grace is on a journey she didn't expect: to not only figure out who she is but to learn how to be kinder to the girl she sees in the mirror.With friendship ups and downs, navigating the pressures of being a young girl, tryouts that test her courage, and some major self-discovery moments (plus a few laugh-out-loud fails), Grace begins to realize that being herself is her true superpower.
For anyone who's ever wondered where they fit in, Grace's journey will feel familiar-and maybe even spark some self-reflection! -as she discovers her unique self through the power of self-compassion, empowering exercises and reflections.
Developed by body image and physical activity researcher and advocate Vanessa Coulbeck, Finding Grace invites young readers to explore self-compassion and body acceptance - and discover their own inner strengths - alongside Grace as she goes on this journey.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Vanessa Coulbeck is a researcher and advocate passionate about empowering girls through body image, self-compassion, and movement. She has worked with national and international organizations to develop educational tools and evidence-informed strategies that promote body acceptance, self-compassion and inclusive physical activity. Drawing from her experience in research, innovation and social impact initiatives, Vanessa aims to inspire real change that supports girls' confidence and well-being. She has shared her work at national and global conferences and continues to lead and advise on initiatives that foster empowerment and positive movement experiences for girls and women.
Coulbeck, Vanessa: - Vanessa Coulbeck is a researcher focused on body image, self-compassion, and physical activity among girls. She has worked with national and international organizations to develop educational tools and evidence-informed strategies that promote body acceptance, self-compassion, and inclusive physical activity. Vanessa's work bridges academic, nonprofit, and innovation sectors, with a focus on real-world impact and well-being. She has presented her work at national and global conferences, including the World Health Organization's Physical Activity Congress, the European Congress of Sport, and has contributed to discussions and shared her work at the United Nations Headquarters. She continues to lead and advise on innovative projects that empower girls and women in movement spaces. Beyond her work, Vanessa loves to travel, explore new cultures, and discover hidden gem cafes. Time with friends and family, sunset walks, and staying active through nature hikes, pilates, and yoga flows are all part of her rhythm. She enjoys hosting themed dinners and cozy gatherings with loved ones, and is often found cooking or baking something new. A big sports fan, she finds joy in watching games and the passion that brings people together. Vanessa also volunteers with organizations and events that align with her passions and values.
