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THEO & MAURICE
A GENTLE STORY ABOUT FRIENDSHIP, CHANGE, AND HOPE
When a boy who dreams of flying meets a cloud who longs to experience life on the ground, an unexpected friendship begins.
Theo & Maurice is a beautifully illustrated picture book that helps children explore imagination, connection, and the feelings that come with loving and losing a friend, all in a reassuring way.
Brandon Bestenheider
about the Story
Theo loves to gaze up at the sky and dream of flying. Maurice, a curious cloud, looks down at the world below and wonders what life must be like on the ground.
When the two meet, they make a promise to share their worlds with one another. Together, Theo and Maurice soar through the sky and explore everyday wonders, commonplace activities that seem sprinkled with magic. An unlikely friendship grows through laughter, curiosity, and quiet joy.
But clouds change. And when Maurice begins to fade, Theo learns an important truth about loss and renewal.
Brandon Bestenheider
Why This Book Matters
Theo & Maurice highlights meaningful emotions in a way young readers can understand and feel safe exploring. Plus, there’s plenty of pure fun to be found within the pages of Theo & Maurice!
Parents and educators value this story because it:
- Encourages empathy and emotional awareness
- Helps children discuss change and loss
- Celebrates imagination and curiosity
- Respects children as thoughtful, capable readers
- Offers reassurance without fear
Brandon Bestenheider
A Thoughtful Reading Experience
This is not a hectic or noisy story. It’s a calm, reflective book that invites children to slow down, ask questions, and share feelings.
The language is simple yet expressive, and the illustrations support the emotional journey without overwhelming it. Adults and children alike will find moments that stay with them far beyond the last page.
To Parents, Educators, and Caregivers
Theo & Maurice is especially well-suited for:
- Bedtime reading and quiet moments
- Classroom discussions about friendship
- Children experiencing change or loss
- Families who value meaningful storytelling
Brandon Bestenheider
Created With Care
Written by Brandon Bestenheider, Illustrated by Jonathan Strailey
Together, they bring warmth, imagination, and emotional depth to a story that speaks softly and sticks with you.
Discover a Story Worth Sharing
Some friendships teach us how to fly.
Others teach us how to let go.
The best do both.
Brandon Bestenheider
about the Author
Well, according to the man himself, Brandon Bestenheider is a pizza-familiar primate who calls Los Angeles home. Unassisted by droids, he’s prone to conjuring short stories, screenplays, novellas, and more!
Rather than relying on spectacle or fast-paced storytelling, Brandon focuses on moments of wonder, curiosity, and reflection. His stories often explore themes such as friendship, longing, loss, and hope, using gentle metaphors that allow readers to discover meaning at their own pace.
In Theo & Maurice, Brandon channels a simple yet powerful idea: that friendships, even when they change or seem to disappear, leave lasting impressions on who we are. His writing invites children and adults alike to slow down, look up, and notice the beauty in both imagination and everyday life.
Brandon’s approach to storytelling emphasizes honesty, emotional safety, and warmth, creating books that are meant to be shared, discussed, and remembered.
