Spring has finally arrived, bringing with it warmer weather, blooming flowers, and an abundance of quiet life emerging in our gardens. Among the most curious and calming sights are the snails—gliding slowly across damp soil, curling around mossy stones, and leaving behind delicate trails that glisten in the morning light. There’s something mesmerizing about the way they move, unhurried and deliberate, as if perfectly content to take their time. Watching them can feel like witnessing a quiet meditation in motion, and it’s easy to wonder what thoughts they might have, or where they believe they’re going.
This quiet, thoughtful nature is precisely what makes snails such a fitting metaphor in children’s literature. Two beautiful picture books—MY PATH, written and illustrated by Jana Curll, published by Nosy Crow, and SNAIL TRAIL by Ziggy Hanaor, illustrated by Christos Kourtoglou, published by Cicada Books—draw on the snail’s gentle pace and steady presence to explore themes of individuality, emotional growth, and self-acceptance.
In MY PATH, Curll introduces young readers to a little snail who serves as a guide for navigating life’s choices. The story emphasizes that the path one chooses to take is deeply personal and that it’s okay—even empowering—to move in a direction that others might not understand or approve. Through endearing illustrations and a message rooted in self-trust, the book gently reassures children that they have the autonomy to decide their journey. It’s a celebration of independence and the courage it takes to listen to one’s inner voice.
Likewise, SNAIL TRAIL offers a different, equally important perspective. This backlist gem from Cicada Books invites children to consider the role of solitude and introspection in emotional well-being. As the snail in the story takes time to be alone, readers are encouraged to see that feelings of sadness, confusion, or even joy are natural and worth honoring. The book normalizes emotional fluctuations and highlights how peaceful moments by oneself can bring clarity, healing, and strength.
Together, these titles provide a powerful toolkit for children who may be struggling with personal choices—either their own or someone else’s. Whether it’s about accepting that a friend wants something different or finding the bravery to walk a new path alone, MY PATH and SNAIL TRAIL are ideal starting points for thoughtful conversations. With guidance from a caring adult, these stories can help young readers reflect, relate, and grow.
Pair these stories with one or more crafts to extend the time spent with your snails! Some ideas include creating a snail from a paper plate, from paper with popsicle sticks, or even from recycled egg cartons.
These simple, mindful crafts not only reinforce the books’ messages but also allow children to explore their thoughts and feelings in a tactile, creative way. Just like the snails in the stories, every child deserves the time and space to discover their own path—one gentle step at a time.
We hope you enjoyed this perfect pairing from our publishers. Be on the lookout for more book and craft activities in the future!