Our Phones

Left Home

A Children's Book Teaching Healthy Digital Habits

Help us bring this humorous and insightful story to families worldwide. Written by a Disney veteran and beautifully illustrated, giving parents a powerful tool to talk with kids about technology.

Backed by:
Kids For Now (UK)Wait Mate (Australia)
Book Illustration
Why This Book Matters

Bridging the gap with humor, heart, and wisdom.

Written by a Disney veteran (Frozen, The Incredibles)

Engaging story with "Minions-level" charm

Includes companion coloring & activity book

Bilingual: Available in English and Spanish

Children reading together

The impact of smartphones and access to social media on our children is undeniable. Screen time affects attention spans, social development, sleep patterns, and mental health. Yet many parents struggle to have productive conversations about technology with their kids.

Our Phones Left Home isn't a lecture—it's an engaging story that children actually want to read. Written by John Edwards and illustrated by Ben Friesen, this book combines professional storytelling with real-world parenting experience to help families navigate the digital age together.

The Challenge Facing Modern Families

Why we need new tools for a digital generation.

The Problem

  • Children receive smartphones at increasingly younger ages (avg. 10).
  • Social media platforms aren't designed for developing brains.
  • Excessive screen time replaces physical play and face-to-face interaction.
  • Parents feel overwhelmed trying to set boundaries without alienating kids.
Phones walking away from family

Our Solution

  • An entertaining narrative that kids genuinely enjoy reading.
  • Characters and situations children can relate to immediately.
  • Practical wisdom woven into the story naturally, not preachy.
  • Activities that reinforce healthy technology habits for the whole family.
Phones having fun together
What's Inside

What Makes This Book Special

More than just a storybook, it's a complete toolkit for modern parents.

Professional Storytelling

Written by John Edwards, a writer for Disney (Frozen, The Incredibles) and ABCmouse.com, blending entertainment with education.

Captivating Illustrations

Ben Friesen's colored pencil artwork gives characters personality, making the visual story as important as the words.

Bilingual Edition

Spanish translation is completed and ready, ensuring families from different cultures can access this message.

Activity Companion

Includes a coloring and activity book with creative exercises, puzzles, and prompts to reinforce healthy habits.

Educational Yet Fun

Not a preachy 'screens are bad' lecture. A balanced, humorous look at making smart choices about technology.

Global Movement

Supported by international organizations like Kids For Now (UK) and Wait Mate (Australia).

Family enjoying time together
Phone character relaxing

Meet the Creators

The team bringing this important story to life.

John Edwards

Author

Writer for legacy Disney properties (Frozen, The Incredibles, Brave). Father of three and teacher for over 15 years.

Ben Friesen

Illustrator

Freelance artist specializing in book illustration. His colored pencil work brings unique personality to every character.

Eva Dietrich

Literary Agent

Aladdin Books and Media Agency. Specializes in children's books and international foreign rights sales.

Brian Schwartz

Publishing Consultant

Selfpublish.org. Oversees layout, design, and distribution through IngramSpark and major platforms.

Where We Are Now

Story completed and refined
All illustrations finished
Layout and cover design finalized
Spanish translation completed
Coloring and activity book developed
Submitted for final approval

Project Timeline

Next 2 Weeks

Final approval completed.

Next Month

Distribution of advance review copies to media, libraries, and influencers.

Dec 27-28, 2025

Grand launch event in Madrid with live entertainment and family fun.

Jan-April 2025

Continued promotion, distribution, and appearance at LA Festival of Books.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Launch

When

Dec 27-28, 2025

Sessions at 12pm & 5pm

Where

Casa Del Lector

Madrid, Spain

Entertainment

Musician Erik Cruz

& Letrimagia Theater

Meet & Greet

Book Signings

with John Edwards

Frequently Asked Questions

Join the Movement Today

Every child deserves a healthy relationship with technology. Your support helps us bring this important message to families around the world.