Pulse BEAT
BRAIN FOOD
Children’s book author Candice Imwalle illustrates the importance of healthy eating
BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
With so many children’s books on the market that teach life lessons, Candice Imwalle was surprised to find that none tackled healthy eating. As a medical sales professional, she regularly encounters patients who suffer from illnesses caused by a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. In effort to help future generations from making poor health decisions, as well as to fill a void in children’s literature, she wrote Sir Morgan and the Kingdom of Horrible Food. The book introduces young readers to the Kingdom of Terrible Food, a place where residents have zero consequences for eating high-fat, high-sugar and high-calorie foods. This changes when a witch casts a spell on the townspeople so that they finally experience the negative effects of their unhealthy choices. Her educational book, full of whimsy and colorful characters – Princess Isabella was named by Imwalle’s daughter Isabella – helps ignite a dialogue between parents and children about the importance of good-foryou foods. Since publishing, Imwalle has shared her book in classrooms across the Valley. Her fictional, yet not-sofar-fetched story resonated with young listeners, many of whom even called out their parents’ unhealthy habits in the Q&A portion. “The message motivated them to tell their parents to be healthier,” Imwalle says. “It was very inspiring.” Imwalle’s children, Cameron (14) and Isabella (almost 11), ensured that the book’s vocabulary was comprehensive for a young audience. In addition to being co-authors, they are also advocates for health. “It’s quite humorous to be in a supermarket with them. They both police each other and even debate over which one eats healthier,” she laughs. With back-to-school season on the horizon, Imwalle reminds parents to remain strong, regardless of the pushback they may receive, when helping their children thrive. Food is a huge factor in that equation. “You know what’s best for your children. Help them make good food choices, but give them a little wiggle room to splurge on occasion. With your guidance, they will grow to be happy, healthy adults.” Imwalle is currently working on a second children’s book (along with her kids) and a dating guide for women over 40. To learn more about Imwalle and her books, visit www.candiceimwalle.com.
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So Scottsdale! August ‘18