Socko the Flamingo with Tennis Shoes

Socko doesn't start broken-he starts dancing.

Already bold. Already radiant. Already grooving in his tennis shoes.

Where most children's books on self-esteem begin with a problem to solve, Socko the Flamingo with Tennis Shoes begins with joy. Socko doesn't teach kids to become brave-he shows them they already are. His story isn't about fixing what's missing. It's about celebrating what's already true.

Created by visionary author and designer Derek Amarillas, Socko's journey invites children into a modular, emotionally rich universe where confidence isn't earned-it's remembered. Socko doesn't wear a cape. He wears tennis shoes. Because real courage looks like showing up as yourself.

This book is perfect for:

- Children ages 4-9 navigating big feelings or new environments

- Classrooms focused on emotional literacy and social-emotional learning (SEL)

- Parents, educators, and therapists seeking joyful, affirming stories

Whether read aloud at bedtime, shared in a classroom, or gifted to a child discovering their own rhythm, Socko's message is clear:

You are enough.

You are radiant.

You are already dancing.

Socko isn't a lesson. He's a rhythm. And every child is invited to join!