Indy, One of a Kind by Toni Stanfield

Psychologist and Spiritual Director Releases Heartwarming Children’s Book Celebrating Individuality

Traverse City, MI– After forty-five years of helping individuals heal, grow, and uncover their inner gifts, psychologist and spiritual director Toni Stanfield—inspired by her little Pomsky Indy—has authored her first children’s book, Indy, One of a Kind, Mission Point Press, (October 2, 2025). This tender, insightful story explores the insecurity that little Indy feels about not being able to do what other animals can, while failing to recognize her own talents. With the wise guidance of Olivia the Owl, Indy comes to realize that she is “one of a kind”—a message of self-acceptance and a celebration of differences that resonates with readers of all ages.

Indy, One of a Kind

“I’ve seen how difficult it is for people—adults and children alike—to recognize and own their unique gifts,” said Stanfield. “It was important to me to write a message that even a four-year-old could understand: we all have strengths that deserve to be celebrated.”

A long-time advocate for incorporating children’s books into her therapeutic practice, Stanfield has used stories like Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose and The Peaceful Warrior to help adults grasp complex ideas in a gentle, accessible way. Writing her own children’s book has always been a dream—and now, through Indy, One of a Kind, she brings together decades of professional experience, parental wisdom, and creative joy to create a one-of-a-kind children’s book.

A Work of Love

“As a mother, some of my most treasured moments were those quiet times before bedtime—when a story could open the door to deep conversation about life’s values,” she shared. “I wrote Indy not only for children, but for the adults who read to them, to create a shared space of reflection, encouragement, and love.”

Ultimately, the book is a personal expression of hope and joy. “I wrote this story to uplift myself,” Stanfield admits. “Creating Indy brought me joy; I hope it brings joy—and self-acceptance—to others too.”

In addition to writing Indy, One of a Kind, Stanfield was purposeful in selecting a collaborator for the book’s artwork. She met with professional illustrator Jan Oliver and was impressed with her ability to use watercolor and pen techniques to convey fluidity and movement. Jan was introduced to the book’s protagonists, Indy and Howard the cat, and created illustrations that will transport readers into the world of charming critters who live in lakes and ponds.

Advance Praise

Advance praise for Indy, One of a Kind from Miriam Pico, educator and creator of Mindful and Musical:

“Her book is an invitation for all of us to stop measuring ourselves by what we can’t do and start celebrating what we can! I can’t wait to read this to my students.”

Author, Toni Stanfield

The Author

Toni Stanfield is a psychologist and director of Life Transitions Counseling in Traverse City, Michigan, specializing in grief and loss. With a master’s in clinical psychology and a certificate in spiritual direction, she’s worked in the field since 1979. A longtime mental health advocate, Toni lives in Grand Traverse County with her husband of 46 years and their Pomsky, Indy. Indy, One of a Kind is her first book

Illustrator, Janet W. Oliver

The Illustrator

Jan Oliver is a professional illustrator who specializes in capturing people and animals in natural settings. She employs simplified watercolor techniques to enrich the action and emotions conveyed by the text. Jan is also a painter and art teacher, showcasing her work throughout the Grand Traverse region. She has received awards and recognition for her illustrations and paintings. Visit her website at oliverthomasstudio.com.

The Book

Indy, One of a Kind

Written by Toni Stanfield, Illustrated by Janet W. Oliver

38 pages, 8.5 x 8.5 inches, Color

Juvenile Fiction, Animals, Social Themes, Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance, Health & Daily Living, Mental Health

ISBN: 978-1-965278-49-9, $17.95 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-965278-48-2, $12.95 (Softcover)

Mission Point Press, October 2, 2025

Copies are available for preorder at Bookshop.org, Amazon, and other online retailers. On its October 2 publication date, it will be available for purchase wherever books are sold. For information or to arrange for signings and events, contact the author at toniastan@aol.com.

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