Young readers explore conflict resolution, empathy, and friendship in Peace! From the Inside Out, a visually rich picture book that shows how peace starts from within.

When three friends discover they all want to dress the same way for their school’s American History Day celebration, it’s an instant costume crisis.

Holly can’t believe her bestie, Clara, wants to look like a singer from the 1960s – because that’s exactly who Holly plans to be. And if that’s not awful enough, know-it-all Clarence insists he’s going to win the costume contest by dressing up as a 1960s “music dude,” complete with a bandana and a fake beard.

As the good vibes fade, Holly hatches a plan to make everything groovy again. She invites Clara and Clarence to look through the costumes collecting dust in her family’s attic. There’s a pilgrim outfit that could be old-school cool for Clara and some cowboy clothes that might even make Clarence look hip. But Clara and Clarence aren’t in the mood to change their minds… or their costume choices.

Clarence declares he won’t be a cowboy and demands Holly should be a cowgirl. Clara sees the apron and bonnet Holly pushes at her and refuses to budge. With voices rising and clothes flying, Holly’s mom steps in to see what all the ruckus is about.

In a tender moment between mother and daughter, Holly discovers that finding peace doesn’t mean always getting her way. Instead, peace is found within – and with others – through listening, being flexible, and choosing kindness over winning.

A special page for parents, caregivers, and educators offers thoughtful guidance on helping children recognize what they can control, accept what they cannot, and find peace during challenging moments.

Peace! From the Inside Out is the fourth title in Gina Prosch’s award-winning Holly’s Choice series, which also includes Joy! You Find What You Look For, Hope! More Than Wishful Thinking, and Love! It’s Show and Tell. Written for children ages 5 to 11, the series empowers young readers to embrace life with more happiness, optimism, and heart.