Maatla The Magnet
by Bakang Tshegofatso Akoonyatse
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Pub Date Oct 20 2025 | Archive Date Dec 09 2025
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Description
A little magnet with a big heart discovers that true friendship is the strongest force of all!
Maatla is a bright red magnet who feels terribly alone. The other magnets won’t play with him, and no matter how hard he tries, he just can’t seem to fit in. When he tumbles on an unexpected adventure—from a dusty drawer, under a scary bed (perfect for fans of Monster Under My Bed Book), and onto a sunny dresser—Maatla learns that being different isn’t something to hide. It’s what makes him special. And somewhere out there is a friend who will see him for exactly who he is.
Inspired by beloved titles like We Don’t Eat Our Classmates, The Not So Friendly Friend, and Ruby Finds a Worry, this heartwarming picture book is ideal for children ages 3-7 and is packed with the best elements of social emotional learning, emotional regulation tools for kids, and making friends book for kids. With vibrant illustrations, young readers will explore gentle lessons about overcoming exclusion, self-acceptance, and the magic of true connection.
Woven into the story is a playful introduction to magnetism science for kids—showing how some things are naturally drawn together. It’s a joyful blend of early STEM, emotions books for toddlers 1-3, and bed time story books for toddlers 1-3, making it perfect for classroom read-alouds, back-to-school conversations, and cozy bedtime snuggles.
If your child loves award winning books for 3 year old, Meesha Makes Friends, or The Boy with Big Big Feelings, they’ll be drawn to Maatla’s journey of resilience, kindness, and friendship. This story is also a wonderful resource for parents and teachers seeking books for emotional regulation kids and therapy books for kids.
A Note From the Publisher
Illustrated by Malachy Nwabuzor
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781957810379 |
| PRICE | $22.00 (USD) |
| PAGES | 40 |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 14 members
Featured Reviews
This is a sweet story about friendship with some science mixed in. Love it! Such a cute story about being different and finding a friend. This would be great for teaching kids to cope with moving or friendship and building relationships. It also shows kids how to overcome obstacles. Very cute. The illustrations are adorable too. All science parents would respect a good magnet story too.
Adorable story about friendship and self-acceptance. As a social worker who works with kids, this book would be great to spark conversation with kids about how they feel and can relate to Maatla. Loved this! so cute. Thank you Netgalley and author for the ARC.
a really cute and heartfelt story about friendships and finding the people who make you feel like you belong. i loved how this story explored the idea of not having to force connections—something i think a lot of us can relate to. it’s tough trying to fit in where you don’t feel seen, and this book is a great reminder that your people are out there, and when you find them, it just clicks.
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