Welcome Home: The Story Behind the Book That Started It All

Welcome Home! A Book for Children Moving to a New House

I’ve always believed that stories have power—the power to comfort, to inspire, and to connect. Welcome Home isn’t just a book on my shelf; it's the heartwarming spark that birthed JustForYouBooks.

How It All Began

Back when I was working as a Realtor, I noticed something that tugged at my heart: children moving homes often got lost in the whirlwind. Even the most beautiful new house can feel overwhelming to a child leaving something familiar behind. One afternoon, that worry sparked an idea—and I grabbed pen and paper. Remarkably, Welcome Home came to life within an hour. As I penned that final sentence, tears rolled down my cheeks—because I realized this was the story I needed when I was six and moving into a new home myself.

A Leap of Faith

With a leap of faith and a whole lot of hope, I self-published the book and found the brilliant Janette Hill to bring the words to life with her illustrations. Little did I know, I was stepping into my true calling—becoming a children’s author.

A Story That Gives a Hug

At its core, Welcome Home is meant to ease a child’s nerves when moving. It’s a cozy, encouraging hug in book form—reassuring children that what truly makes a home isn’t the walls or rooms, but the love and people inside.

Why It Matters

• I’ve had Realtors tell me how perfect it is as a “closing gift” to calm anxious little ones. Robert Reffkin (Founder & CEO of Compass) said, “What a great idea to give this book to clients who are moving.” And Kelle Dame from Kelle Dame Interiors shared that it’s “a sweet message… letting kids know that people make a home.” 

• It’s not just a book—it’s a tool of empathy, easing transitions and building comfort during a big life change.

• Realtors will find, this book is the perfect closing gift for families moving with little ones. There is even space on the final page of the book to include a photo of their closing day-another reason to reach out once they've moved in-with a thoughtful photo of their "key day".

  
  

Make a Child’s Move a Little Easier

If you know a little one about to move, consider gifting them Welcome Home. It’s more than a story—it’s a gentle reminder that love, connection, and belonging travel with them, no matter where they land.

Monika Strand is the author of over 50 children's books. Her happy space and niche is creating personalized books for birthdays, baptisms, big brother/sister books, holidays, kids moving and other momentous occasions.

For all your personalized children's book needs, you can find Monika’s books by visiting: justforyoubooks.com.

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