A Live Reading
An engaging read‑aloud of NINE: The Story of Tony, complete with voices and questions for kids.
A new children's book by Linette Davis
Helping children embrace what makes them different.
NINE: The Story of Tony is a heartfelt picture book about confidence, kindness, and the strength we find in our uniqueness. Perfect for families, classrooms, and counseling settings.
- ✓ Ideal for elementary‑aged children & older
- ✓ Encourages confidence and empathy
- ✓ Great for home, classroom, or counseling
✨ Signed copies available
About the Book
A story that stays with children long after the last page.
This inspiring story gently guides children through the challenges of feeling different and facing bullying. Through the love of his parents and the encouragement of a supportive teacher, one young boy learns that his difference is not something to hide, but something to embrace.
NINE: The Story of Tony follows a young boy born with a missing finger as he discovers the strength in his uniqueness. The book opens the door for important conversations between children and the adults who care for them.
Confidence
Kindness
Self‑acceptance
Anti‑bullying
A peek inside
Warm, vibrant illustrations that invite kids in.
Beautifully illustrated by Keliah D. Smith. Every page is designed to spark joy, conversation, and empathy.
Meet the Author
After decades of collecting stories in her heart, Linette is finally sharing them with the world.
A retired professional turned children's author, Linette discovered her true calling through the simplest of moments: bedtime stories with her grandchildren. Those impromptu tales, filled with laughter and life lessons, became the foundation for her debut book and many more to come.
As a lifelong creator who has tried everything from crafting chocolates to making resin art, Linette brings a unique perspective to children's literature. She writes stories that champion the underdog, celebrate differences, and show young readers that what makes them different makes them special.
"Try it, embrace change, and if something doesn't work, try something else."
Bring this message to your school or community
Engaging author visits that inspire children.
Linette offers warm, interactive visits designed to spark conversation and support social‑emotional learning.
Heart‑to‑Heart Discussion
A conversation about kindness, confidence, and embracing the things that make us different.
Interactive Engagement
Activities and Q&A that get every child involved. Perfect for schools, libraries, and community groups.
What Readers Are Saying
A book families and educators love.
Parent"My son has always felt self conscious about his birthmark. After we read NINE together, he told me he wanted to bring the book to school to show his friends. That was the moment I knew this story was something special."
Teacher"I read NINE to my second graders and the room got so quiet you could hear a pin drop. We spent the rest of the afternoon talking about kindness and what makes each of us unique. It is now a permanent part of my classroom library."
Granddaughter"Grandma reads the best stories and Tony is my favorite. I learned that being different is a good thing. I told my friends about it and now I want her to write a book about me next!"
Counselor"Finding age appropriate books that address bullying with this much heart is rare. I now keep NINE on my shelf and reach for it often during one on one sessions with students who are struggling to feel accepted."
Family"I read NINE to my grandson and he asked me to read it again the very next night. Watching my sister pour her love for children into this book has been such a gift, and the way it speaks to little ones is something special."
Parent"We have read NINE every night for two weeks straight. My daughter asks new questions each time, and the conversations we have had about kindness and confidence have been priceless. Worth every penny."
Order Your Copy
Ready to inspire a child's confidence?
Each book is personally signed by Linette and can include a custom message, making it a meaningful gift for your child, classroom, or loved one. Every purchase helps bring this message to more children through school visits and community programs.
$20
shipping included
Buy a Signed Copy →
Secure checkout powered by Stripe
Prefer to order online?
Get in Touch
Order a signed copy, or invite Linette to visit.
Send a quick note and Linette will reply personally. Please include the number of copies, a custom inscription if you'd like, and your shipping address, or details about your school, library, or community group.