Sarah Russi's Book Helps Children Cope with Parental Deployment

BRADENTON, Fla., Oct. 30, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Sarah Russi, a Navy wife and professional dog trainer, has authored a new children's book aimed at comforting toddlers and early readers as they navigate the challenges of a parent's deployment at sea. Titled "Rawry's Daddy Is Underway," the book is designed to help military and maritime families cope with the emotional separation. The story follows a young boy named Rawry, who experiences the difficult feelings of saying goodbye when his father leaves for a mission on a ship. Through the narrative, Rawry learns that difficult emotions are only temporary visitors that eventually pass.

The book, which is specifically crafted for toddlers and early readers between the ages of two and six, uses highly accessible language, rhyming text, and colorful illustrations to explain a complex and emotional concept to small children. Beyond the comforting story, the book also features interactive coloring pages to help children process their separation anxiety and engage with the story's themes. The heartwarming plot follows a young boy named Rawry who experiences the difficult feelings of saying goodbye when his father leaves for a mission on a ship. Deep down in the ocean, where big blue waves sway, Rawry's brave Daddy sails far, far away. When Daddy goes under the waves for a while, it can be kind of tricky for Rawry to smile. But with the gentle guidance of his mother, Rawry learns that difficult emotions are only temporary visitors that eventually pass.

The author, who is also an Army daughter herself, wrote the book specifically for her son, Forrest, to bring comfort, connections, and extra love during his father's deployments.

"Rawry's Daddy Is Underway" is now available for purchase online at various bookstores. With its engaging story and interactive elements, the book is expected to be a valuable resource for military and maritime families, providing a comforting and educational experience for young readers. The book is available for purchase at a price of $14.99 and features 26 pages. It is part of a broader effort to support military and maritime families, who often face the unique challenges of deployment. By providing a relatable and engaging narrative, "Rawry's Daddy Is Underway" aims to help children understand and manage their emotions during their parents' absences.