This book is dedicated to my three children who with such bravery and grace endured the challenges that came with the COVID-19 Pandemic. From vaccines to COVID tests, they did their best to be brave like every other child in this world. But how much better is it to go through challenges, while seeing them in a different light. Our family did this by creating a story we told them about a swab that was just as terrified as they were about getting swabbed. I hope my children and all other children enjoy this book as their imaginations are ignited on a day when the swabs come to life. And remember this can be used for swabs, needles, and so much more.

Preview audio:

storyj.mp/acedv4ipeqbh

Long long ago there was a swab factory. And in this factory there were hundreds, upon hundreds of swabs.

And of all of the swabs in this factory there was one that was very unique. He wasn't known for how long he was, or how big he was, or how aggressive he was, but he was known for his compassion. Although most swabs wouldn't call him compassionate, that's what he liked to think of himself.

Now, during this time the factory was in the production stage. This required the workers to prepare as many swabs as possible.

But one day, the manager of the factory received word that there was a pandemic, and that the medical field needed all of their swabs immediately! So instead of just producing swabs, the manager and all the workers had to detain, contain, and ship off as many swabs as they could.

The swabs heard that it was time to go, and they were filled with joy. Their whole lives they knew they were created for one purpose, to serve the people in need of medical attention.

But way off in the far corner of the factory, there was one swab that sat in silence. His name was Scaredy swab. He knew the pain and sadness that was destined to come, so he sat alone, grieving, as he awaited his fate.

Look at Scaredy swab crying!

Now on the other side of town, there were grandparents, parents, children, and so many other people being impacted by the pandemic. Many of whom, were nervous and scared. Specifically, the little children who had no idea of what to expect as they prepared to visit the doctor to be swabbed for a new virus. People everywhere were in a frenzy.

Honk! Honk! Honk!

"Coming through!"

On the day that Scaredy swab and his friends were delivered to the medical center, there was a parent and a two-year-old boy who had just arrived at the center. The little boy seemed to be filled with joy until he saw a tube with a swab pulled out by the medical professional.

Instantly tears began to run down his face. "No thank you, mom!" He repeated over and over again until he came face to face with a talking swab!