"From the moment I met Alyssa Antoci, I knew she was extra special. I had the privilege of speaking at her school and sharing the inspiration behind my first book, "The Little Rose." Following my talk, Alyssa told me that she had begun writing a book when she was 8 years old inspired by a bullying experience. I was impressed that she had taken on such a challenging subject and followed her inspiration at such a young age.
As I've gotten to know her over the course of her publishing journey, I'm continually amazed by her warmth, talent, and desire to help others. I've fallen in love with her and her mission and I'm certain you will do the same when you read her debut book, "Break the Circle: The Purple Marble."
I know that Alyssa will continue to have a profound positive impact on the world through her books, her charity, and her being. She's living proof that you're never too old or too young to pursue your dreams and make a difference. I'm honored to be her mentor, friend, and fan."
Sheri Fink, #1 Best-Selling Author and Founder of "The Whimsical World of Sheri Fink" Brand
"I did read Alyssa’s book a few days ago. I can tell that she put a lot of heart and soul into her writing and clearly had a vision at that time. I especially liked the section entitled, “What the characters learned.” This is a wonderful section for those children who exhibit troubles with critical thinking skills and explicitly lays out each character’s feelings and plan of action (POA) using the words of a child. All wonderful, with this book clearly deserving a place for ALL children to read regardless of their culture, etc.”
Karen L. Schiltz, Ph.D. (PSY 9508)
Clinical Neuropsychologist
Private Practice, Calabasas, CA
P: 818-518-1057 or 805-379-4939
Associate Clinical Professor (Voluntary)
Medical Psychology Assessment Center
Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior
Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences
The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
"The Purple Marble is my new favorite children's book! Centered on the theme of bullying, it's been the perfect lead in to classroom discussion & activities that help children deal with bullying. The way author Alyssa Antoci draws from the experiences & unique perspectives of each character is truly intriguing while relatable to all young people.
As an elementary school teacher for 22 years, I believe The Purple Marble is a must have in every classroom."
Stacy Speckman Flaherty
Teacher at Lincoln Unified School District
"I teach at Brize Norton Primary School in Oxforshire, England and had the privilege of incorporating Alyssa's book, The Purple Marble, in our Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) lessons. Our topic this Autumn term is Say No to Bullying. Reading Alyssa's beautiful heartfelt story to the class was a fantastic beginning to our anti-bullying lessons. It was a perfect introduction to such an important topic to teach all children that bullying should never be tolerated and to always make our friends feel safe. I've known Alyssa for many years and am beyond proud of her courage to share this story. The children loved the colourful pictures and The Purple Marble prompted my students on how we should treat others in and out of school. It is a must read to all children and I'm convinced will make a difference for young generations and old. Well Done Alyssa! Always trying to create a positive impact on others is how we all should lead our lives.
Michele Arbuzow Conner
Teacher at Brize Norton Primary School
Oxfordshire, Uk