By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living
When Woodbridge author and Parenting and Family Communication Coach Mindy Green sat down with her 8-year-old grandson one afternoon, she had no idea their shared moment of frustration would lead to her first children’s book.
“He was getting increasingly frustrated trying to tie his shoes,” Green recalls. “His laces seemed to get longer every time he tried. To lighten the moment, we decided to make our own little book about it.”
That lighthearted idea became Sammy’s Super Stretchy Shoelaces, a story that turns a common childhood challenge into a lesson in patience, perseverance, and problem-solving. Green’s grandson illustrated their first version, and what began as a way to ease tension soon grew into something much more meaningful.
From Real Life to Storytime
“As we worked on it together, I realized we had captured something every child and parent could relate to,” Green said. “Those everyday frustrations and small wins are where kids begin to find their own strength.”
Drawing on her background as a Parenting and Family Communication Coach, Green saw an opportunity to blend her professional experience with a personal story. Her work focuses on helping parents understand their children’s personalities, emotions, and behavior to build stronger connections instead of conflict.
“The heart of Sammy’s Super Stretchy Shoelaces comes straight from that work,” she explained. “Understanding, encouragement, and humor can help kids handle big feelings and build confidence.”
A Community Connection
Since its release in October, Sammy’s Super Stretchy Shoelaces has already found fans across Prince William County. Green has shared readings at her grandsons’ school and during community events, including the Lake Ridge Trunk or Treat, where children eagerly listened to Sammy’s story while picking up coloring sheets, stickers, and even some silly fake teeth.
“I was so touched by how supportive the kids and parents were,” she said. “They were excited to hear that this was my first children’s book.”
The book is available on Amazon in both paperback and hardcover, and Green has requested that it be added to the Prince William County Library system so local families can borrow it soon.
What’s Next for Sammy
Green isn’t done sharing Sammy’s adventures. Sammy’s Super Stretchy Shoelaces is the first in a planned series featuring Sammy, his family, and their dog, Winston. Coming this March, she’ll release a companion activity book designed to help children put the story’s lessons into practice through creativity and play.
“I wanted to make something that encourages kids to express themselves and parents to join in,” she said. “Because at the end of the day, connection is what builds confidence.”
You can learn more about Mindy Green and her work at mindygreencoaching.com.
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Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living and Brides & Weddings magazines. She’s also the CEO of Imagine, a destination marketing agency. When she isn’t working, Rebecca volunteers with the OWL Volunteer Fire Department, advocates for early breast cancer detection, and enjoys time at Disney World or with her grandchildren.
