Children don’t just learn from the lessons adults teach them—they learn from the lives they witness, the courage they recognize, and the people who choose to follow their heart even when the road ahead feels impossible. 
And in a world where so many kids are still searching for who they’re meant to become, the stories that leave the greatest mark are often the ones that remind them true success isn’t defined only by accomplishment—but by the compassion, integrity, and heart they choose to lead with along the way. 
And so, one celebrated writer is bringing to life the extraordinary legacy of a medical pioneer to remind young readers that compassion, conviction, and the determination to remain true to who they are can shape a future that changes lives for generations. 
Award-Winning Children’s Author, Joan Schoettler, joins our John Masiulionis and Little Forrest on Episode #272 of PR From The Heart’s Children’s Books Spotlight Series to share her inspiring journey from the classrooms of California State University to becoming a creative catalyst in the world of children’s literature, the release of her new book, A Doctor At Heart: The Story of Groundbreaking Scientist and Teacher Vivien Thomas (published by Simon & Schuster/Beach Lane Books), how Vivien’s extraordinary perseverance, brilliance, and unwavering dedication to learning helped reshape the future of medicine while breaking through racial and systemic barriers for generations to come, why children need stories that remind them their dreams remain possible even in the face of adversity and discrimination, and the life-changing impact of compassionate mentors—plus much more. 
We encourage you, our friends and neighbors, to support Joan’s work by getting your copies of A Doctor At Heart: The Story of Groundbreaking Scientist and Teacher Vivien Thomas and enjoying this empowering read with your little ones: https://bit.ly/4wI8fnN. 
A Doctor At Heart: The Story of Groundbreaking Scientist and Teacher Vivien Thomas 
Text copyright © 2026 by Joan Schoettler • Illustrations copyright © 2026 by Steffi Walthall. Used with permission. Published by Simon & Schuster/Beach Lane Books. All rights reserved.
Stay connected with Joan online and on social media:
Official Website: https://bit.ly/4dCDzeW
Facebook: https://bit.ly/4wKjZpQ
Instagram: https://bit.ly/4wKmZ5C
X: bit.ly/4v6T06w
