Paco and the fluffy bear Paco y el oso suavecito

About the Book

Discover the trauma recovery and resilient journey in “Paco and the Fluffy Bear / Paco y El Oso Suavecito,” a touching bilingual Spanish-English narrative by Elena Mendez Knutson that guides young readers through the tumultuous domestic and family violence landscape. This children's nonfiction book sheds light on the complex realities faced by domestic violence survivors, mainly through the eyes of young Paco, who learns to navigate his emotions and regain peace after experiencing upheaval in his home. Through engaging storytelling and compassionate insights, Paco’s story offers a beacon of hope and a resource for healing after abuse. As Paco interacts with his beloved Fluffy Bear, readers will explore the powerful effects of child play therapy, which gives children a gentle method to express feelings and fears that might otherwise be left unspoken. This book not only addresses the challenges faced by children witnessing domestic abuse but also integrates essential principles of faith-based books, providing a spiritual framework that encourages forgiveness, healing, and growth. Each page resonates with the themes of domestic violence resources available for children and their caregivers, emphasizing that no one is alone in their struggles. Elena Mendez Knutson delicately weaves critical life lessons about trust, faith, and recovery, making “Paco and the Fluffy Bear” a crucial addition to any young reader's library, particularly those navigating the aftermath of domestic disturbances. The narrative is thoughtfully crafted to empower children, providing them with the tools to understand their experiences and the assurance that recovery is possible. Parents, educators, and therapists will find “Paco and the Fluffy Bear / Paco y El Oso Suavecito” an invaluable tool in helping children cope with and recover from the trauma of domestic violence. The book's bilingual presentation makes it accessible to a wide audience and facilitates discussions about a hard topic in a way that is appropriate for children. Elena Mendez Knutson's book stands alongside influential works like “The Day My Daddy Lost His Temper” and “Mommy’s Black Eye,” continuing the vital conversation about family violence and recovery in young literature. Her compassionate approach ensures that every child who turns these pages sees a path forward, filled with hope and guided by faith. Join Paco on his journey to find serenity and security in a world where he learns to overcome fear with love and trauma with the tender support of his Fluffy Bear.

About the Author

Fundadora de Sublime Growth

Psicóloga clínica y Trabajadora Social. Magíster en Psicología Clínica Comunitaria. Magister en Trabajo Social Clínico (LCSW). Certificada y especializada en el tratamiento del Trauma (CCTP). Formada en tratamientos basados en efectividad y evidencia científica. Perteneciente a la Asociación Nacional de Trabajadores Sociales de Texas, Estados Unidos, a la Federación Venezolana de Psicólogos y al Colegio de Psicólogos de Venezuela. Elena ha basado la mayor parte de su trabajo en evaluación, investigación, intervenciones clínicas, psicoeducación y trabajo en equipos interdisciplinarios en centros de cuidado de salud y responsabilidad social con valores cristianos.

Elena es conferencista, investigadora, y escritora con un sentido humano y social únicos. Ha dedicado más de doce (12) años a la atención psicológica a niños, niñas, adolescentes, adultos, familias y grupos que han experimentado traumas complejos, poli-victimización, duelo y problemas de salud mental en comunidades multiétnicas incluyendo inmigrantes latinos, hispanoamericanos y refugiados africanos. En su tiempo de descanso Elena dedica tiempo a la reflexión cristiana, oración, ejercicio, turismo, al conocimiento de nuevas culturas y lenguajes y a la música. Desde temprana edad, usa el canto, la espiritualidad y la fe como formas de afrontamiento ante las complejidades de la vida. Elena es popular en Venezuela y en Texas. Muchas personas aprecian su melodiosa voz, amor, fe y servicio al prójimo.

Founder of Sublime Growth

Venezuelan Clinical Psychologist and American Clinical Social Worker. Master in Community Clinical Psychology from Catholic University, Caracas, Venezuela. Master in social work from the University of Houston. Certified and specialized in the treatment of trauma (CCTP). Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Trained in treatments based on effectiveness and scientific evidence. Member of the National Association of Social Workers of Texas, the Venezuelan Federation of Psychologists, and the College of Psychologists of Venezuela. Elena has focused most of her work on assessments, research, clinical interventions, psychoeducation, and interdisciplinary teamwork in health care centers, hospitals, and non-profit organizations.

Elena is a lecturer, researcher, and writer. She shows a unique human and social sensibility. She has dedicated more than twelve (12) years of her life to psychological care of children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. The population that Elena regularly serves present complex trauma, poly-victimization, grief, and mental health problems. Elena's patients are from multi-ethnic communities, including Hispanic American immigrants, second-generation American Hispanics, and African refugees. When Elena is not working, she dedicates time to Christian reflection, praying, working out, traveling, learning new cultures and languages, listening, and playing music. From an early age, she utilizes music, spirituality, and faith to cope with life's complexities. Elena is well-known in Venezuela and Texas. Many appreciate her melodious voice, love, faith, and service to others.