Bumper - The First Bump - Paperback

by Aaron Kershaw (Author), Lori-Ellen Pisani (Associate Editor)

Bumper and the First Bump is a heartfelt SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) adventure about a bright orange truck named Bumper who feels everything a little deeper than everyone else. While other vehicles brush off comments, embarrassment, and hard moments, Bumper struggles because he has no bumpers - and without them, every emotional "bump" seems to hit harder.

When teasing, frustration, and misunderstandings pile up at Willow Bend School, Bumper begins learning an important lesson: being sensitive does not make you weak. With guidance from wise mentors like Miss Maple and Coach Diesel, Bumper discovers how emotions spread, how words can stick, and how real strength comes from learning what to do after life's bumps happen.

Filled with humor, warmth, emotional intelligence, and memorable lessons, Bumper and the First Bump helps children understand empathy, emotional regulation, accountability, and resilience in a way that feels real, relatable, and empowering.

Perfect for readers ages 8-12, parents, teachers, counselors, and SEL classrooms.