the screen time book
teachers recommend!
When Dashall wishes to live inside his device, he gets exactly what he wanted — and discovers that the digital world is missing everything that matters. A warm, whimsical picture book about screen time, real-world wonder and the irreplaceable joy of a life fully lived.
Ideal for classroom read-alouds, library story time programs and the shelf of every family navigating screens in the digital age.
themes:
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Dashall learns an important lesson about how easy it is to miss the magic of everyday life when you’re always scrolling, immediately relating to students.
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Through Dashall's journey, children explore emotional awareness, empathy, self-regulation and the value of real-world connection — core SEL competencies wrapped in a story they'll ask to hear again and again.
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Dashall learns the sensory magic of nature is one thing the digital world could never match - opening discussions that help connect kids to the wonders of Earth.
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In the end, Dashall realizes that nothing compares to the little joys of life that are available to him at all times if he stops and looks around, teaching kids the fundamentals of mindfulness.
“This story is beautifully written and brings into focus what kids overlook when focusing on technology. Dashall is the perfect book that reprioritizes the magic of life for kids of all ages. Every elementary school and public library should make this a read-aloud with discussions!”
– Karol Delia,
Elementary Teacher, Doddridge County Early Learning Academy
Mikaela “Mik the Messenger” Ann writes impactful and relevant stories for kids that help them connect to themselves, the present, and the world around them. Her breakout title, Dashall and the Digital World, empowers kids to limit their screen time by reminding them that the little everyday joys around them all the time are where you can find the magic of life – not inside a screen.
About the author
