The Smart Cookie

The Cool Bean Makes a Splash follows the Cool Bean and his friends as they head to the community pool, where everyone seems eager to show off their biggest dives, fastest swims, and fanciest tricks. When the pressure to impress starts taking the fun out of the day, the Cool Bean discovers that confidence isn’t about being the best—it’s about enjoying yourself, encouraging others, and trying your best. Filled with Jory John’s signature humor and Pete Oswald’s expressive illustrations, this uplifting story reminds readers that everyone belongs, no matter their abilities. As children enjoy this fun-filled adventure, they naturally strengthen reading comprehension, vocabulary, and social-emotional learning while developing confidence, empathy, resilience, and an appreciation for encouraging others instead of competing with them.