Author of a children’s book emphasizes the distinctions

Little Rock, Arkansas – An alopecia-focused book by seasoned first-grade teacher and children’s author Tracy Peterson was just published.

“Beanies, Ball Caps, and Being Bald” is the true story about a student Peterson taught, Matthew Shelby. It tells about his journey with alopecia, written from his point of view.

The publication of the book at the University of Arkansas was highly anticipated. Jordan Walsh (men’s basketball) and Rylee Langerman (women’s basketball), special guests and student-athletes who both have alopecia, took part in the celebration.

Peterson’s other book, “Cartwheels: Finding Your Special Kind of Smart”, was released in 2020. It is the true story about another one of Peterson’s students, Sloane LaFrance, and her journey with dyslexia.

“These stories couldn’t come to life without the illustrator, Linsdey Witting,” Peterson said. “Lindsey just graduated from UCA and is a gifted artist. She was able to share my vision and bring the words to life.”

Peterson stated that she wants to highlight the bravery of young people and share the messages of each book.

Peterson made a suggestion that more books are being written. One would focus on Type 1 diabetes while the other, from the viewpoint of a first grader, might focus on dyscalculia.

A Little Rock publisher named Etalia Press released the two novels.