Ted's Monstrous Secret

Karyn Miller Illustrated by Mariela Lotfi

A turtle with a unique quality decides to show kindness to others who feel different.

Ted is a turtle with a perfectly flat shell, so he wears a backpack and vest to fit in. But that doesn’t stop others from teasing him. Rather than dwell on his sadness, Ted decides to help other animals who feel different, leaving them special notes as encouragement. From a lonely bat to a brightly coloured lizard, Ted’s kindness spreads through the forest. But when an accident leaves him stuck on his back, he discovers the kindness he has given will return to him in a most unexpected way. A beautifully illustrated and heartwarming tale about self-acceptance and empathy.

This heartwarming tale of self-acceptance will encourage children to embrace their unique qualities and find confidence in who they are.
Ted’s journey explores themes of empathy, inspiring children to support others and show kindness.
Engaging illustrations that convey the warmth and character of this wonderful story.

Karyn Miller is a New Zealand born author who lives in Queensland, Australia. After gaining a Diploma in Creative Writing with distinctions, Karyn found her true calling and passion in life - to craft heartfelt, thought-provoking picture books that will instil curiosity and a love of reading into children all around the world. With several years of experience working with young children as a Teacher Aide, Karyn aims to encourage children who live in a world full of judgement, to be unapologetically themselves.

Mariela Lotfi was born in Mendoza, Argentina and has always been captivated by the enchanting illustrations found in books. After graduating from the Faculty of Visual Arts at the National University of Mendoza, Mariela became a freelance illustrator, expressing her love of animals, people and nature through a variety of artistic techniques. Mariela now lives with her family in Switzerland.

ISBN ：978-1-80036-104-1

Release Date ：September 2025