Admiral William H. McRaven, renowned for his distinguished 37-year career as a U.S. Navy SEAL and leadership roles, including overseeing the operation that led to Osama bin Laden's demise, has ventured into children's literature.
Drawing from the life lessons he imparted to his own children, McRaven has authored Make Your Bed with Skipper the Seal, a picture book that translates his principles into an engaging narrative for young readers.
In his children’s picture book, McRaven introduces Skipper, a determined seal aspiring to become a Navy SEAL. Throughout his training, Skipper learns invaluable lessons about perseverance, courage, and the importance of small tasks. These lessons mirror the themes from McRaven's #1 New York Times bestseller, Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World.
This children's adaptation simplifies profound concepts, teaching young readers that starting the day with a simple task, like making their bed, can set the tone for accomplishing greater challenges.
The narrative emphasizes that life's challenges are inevitable. However, facing them with determination and a positive mindset leads to personal growth. Skipper's journey illustrates that taking risks, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and supporting one's team are crucial components of success. These moral lessons are seamlessly woven into the story, making them accessible and relatable to children aged 4 to 8.
Illustrated by Howard McWilliam, the book brings Skipper's adventures to life with vibrant imagery, capturing children's attention while reinforcing the story's messages. Parents and educators have praised the book for its ability to convey essential life lessons in an engaging manner, noting its effectiveness in teaching children about responsibility, resilience, and the impact of daily habits.
Admiral McRaven's transition into children's literature showcases his commitment to imparting wisdom across generations. By adapting the stories and morals he shared with his own children, he offers young readers tools to navigate life's challenges with confidence and integrity. This book serves as both an entertaining tale and a foundational guide for building character from an early age.
The Power of a Strong Brand in Children's Picture Books
Admiral William H. McRaven’s success in the children's book market isn't just about the quality of his storytelling.
It’s also a masterclass in the power of branding.
McRaven built a reputation as a disciplined, inspiring leader through his military career and bestselling books like Make Your Bed. By extending that brand into children's literature, he naturally attracted parents who admire his values and want to instill them in their kids.
Rick’s Commentary
In children's picture books, branding plays a crucial role in driving recognition and trust. Whether it’s an author’s name, a distinctive illustration style, or a consistent theme across multiple books, branding helps audiences connect with a story before even turning the first page. Take Beatrix Potter, Dr. Seuss or Georgeanne Irvine. Each has a recognizable brand that guarantees a certain kind of experience.
For authors and illustrators, developing a clear brand means defining what makes their books unique. Are they known for humorous, interactive storytelling? Stunning, realistic wildlife art? Thoughtful, lesson-driven narratives? The clearer the brand, the easier it is for readers to return for more.
McRaven’s Make Your Bed with Skipper the Seal benefits from a strong, pre-existing brand that promises leadership, resilience, and personal growth. Qualities that resonate with parents who see the value in passing those lessons to their children. The book itself becomes more than a story; it’s part of a trusted philosophy.
For aspiring children's book creators, like me, the takeaway is clear: define your brand early, build trust with your audience, and make sure every book reinforces the messages you want to be known for.
It’s not just about writing a good book.
It’s about making sure people know it’s yours.
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