Bucks County Author, Educator Releases 2 New Books, Online Educational Network on Emotional Development of Children

If you know Deena Fischer, founder of Stages Academy Performing Arts Schools you know she is a driven educator, passionate about the theatrical arts and when she sets her sights on a mountain to climb she does so in the graceful fashion of the ballet pirouettes she used to pull of years ago.

Fischer on Tuesday announced the release of two new, beautifully written and illustrated picture books, “Max is a BIG Deal” and “Mollie Mouse is Worried Sick” as her next professional cliff to.

Both books introduce young readers to charming animal characters who navigate big feelings and everyday challenges with warmth, humor, and heart, Fischer said.

In :Max is a BIG Deal,” readers meet Max Mouse, who struggles with learning what’s a “big deal” versus a “little deal.” With the help of his mom, Max learns to manage his emotions, think before reacting, and find calm in the chaos — a perfect story for helping preschoolers and early elementary students build emotional awareness and problem-solving skills.

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In “Mollie Mouse is Worried Sick,” Max’s friend Mollie faces her own challenge: overwhelming anxiety. With the gentle support of her mother, Mollie learns a simple calming technique to breathe, redirect her thoughts, and face her fears — an essential lesson for today’s young children learning to navigate worry and self-regulation in an ever-changing world.

Together, these books form part of a growing social-emotional learning (SEL) series that uses relatable stories and animal characters to help children understand and manage their feelings, practice empathy, and build resilience.

In tandem with the release of the books Fischer is launching a companion website Bright Lantern Learning bringing her vision to life online, offering a growing library of children’s books, teaching materials, parent resources, and activities that spark curiosity and emotional connection. The site will also feature insights for parents and educators on supporting early childhood emotional development through storytelling and creative play, Fischer explained.

“Stories can be lanterns — they light the way for children to understand themselves and others,” says Fischer. “Through Max, Mollie, and their friends, I want kids to see that big feelings are okay — and that with the right tools, they can always find their calm and confidence. At Bright Lantern, we strive to build emotional confidence – one story at a time!”

Max is a Big Deal and Mollie Mouse is Worried Sick are available now through www.brightlanternlearning.com, Amazon, and select retailers.

Fischer as part of the last act of her new educational play, said she’s in the final stages of launching a podcast through the Bright Lantern Learning website. 

About Bright Lantern Learning

Bright Lantern Learning is an independent children’s educational brand founded by Deena Fischer, founder and owner of Stages Academy Performing Arts Preschools in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Bright Lantern Learning is dedicated to helping children grow emotionally, creatively, and confidently through stories, art, and play. The company creates books and parenting resources that shine a light on emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and the joy of discovery.

For more information or to request a local author visit, contact: info@brightlanternlearning.com or visit www.brightlanternlearning.com.