“Two Stones is a charming story that exposes a child’s fear about her parents’ argument. The two stones parallel the lives of her parents in a remarkable way. I am reminded of Japanese aesthetics when the weathering of objects, like stones, makes them more beautiful for their accumulation of experience. Ana learns that her parents have the experience and the love for her that dissolved their argument. The book handsomely designed, brings together Todd Weinstein’s photography and Ron Teachworth’s storytelling.”

—Susan Stewart, Artist

Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

“Two Stones by Ron Teachworth is a beautifully photographed story, about a miracle in the life of a young girl who is having family problems.  The problems are solved with the help of two magical stones that she finds on the beach.  In the story, Analisa worries about her parents’ arguments and wonders whether they might divorce.  The book might be enjoyed just simply for the story or could be used to engage a child or group of children in a discussion about childhood fears, especially the fear of parents divorcing. For middle school students, it would be a good example of a first person narrative.  The photographs are a nice way to show that “illustrations” can be photographs.  It is also a very simple metaphorical fantasy, which I think is a good example for children to emulate.   This would be an easy read for students dealing with family stress.  It has a depth than opens up discussion and it could lead to discussions about family strife, feelings of isolation and fantasy.”

—Christine Lind Hage, Director

Rochester Hills Public Library

“Two Stones is a beautiful story about a young girl worried about fight her parents were having. A touching tale with deeper tones that will engage readers of any age. Gorgeous photography and a powerful video.”

—J. Hager, Young Adult Author

“The children’s book Two Stones, by Ron Teachworth, is a simple, elegant story about a child coping with anxiety after witnessing a fight between her parents. Ana, who is depicted in beautiful photographs by Todd Weinstein, finds solace with a walk on the beach and two magical stones.  Children who read this story would not only identify with Ana’s fears about divorce but will also find the mystery of the stones intriguing. Parents or mental health professionals can use Two Stones as a springboard for discussions about the emotional effects of family conflict. The rich use of symbolism in this book will certainly aid in such discussions. For example, the beach, with its waves and ever-changing shoreline, is a useful metaphor for the ebb and flow of emotions.  The themes of aloneness and connection can foster dialogue about how children cope with upset feelings. During her walk, Ana experiences the restorative effects of being alone in nature. However, it is the reunion with her parents at the end of her walk, which provides her with the sense of safety and connection that she, like any child, needs.”

—Juliet Glinski, Psy.D. Psychologist

White Plains, NY