A Big Change Happened: Helping Children through Upheaval

Darby A. Strickland, MDiv, is a faculty member and counselor at the Christian Counseling & Education Foundation (CCEF). She is a contributor to Becoming a Church That Cares Well for the Abused and author of Is It Abuse? A Biblical Guide to Identifying Domestic Abuse and Helping Victims, the children's book Something Scary Happened, and the minibook When Children Experience Trauma. She writes regularly for the Journal of Biblical Counseling. Darby and her husband, John, have three children.

Kristen Howdeshell is an illustrator and one half of The Brave Union, a freelance illustration team. Their artwork is published in many children's books including Seeds and Trees; The Moments with Jesus Encounter Bible; and I Am the Storm. This husband-and-wife duo lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with their four children.

Kevin Howdeshell is an illustrator and one half of The Brave Union, a freelance illustration team. Their artwork is published in many children's books including Seeds and Trees; The Moments with Jesus Encounter Bible; and I Am the Storm. This husband-and-wife duo lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with their four children.

“With eye-catching illustrations and an imagination-activating story, Darby Strickland takes a common fear and crafts a story that will help children in times of change to rest in the unchanging presence and promises of God. Whether you have a Wallace in your home or your life, the truth of God’s care for all his children is something we need on a daily basis.”
Jonathan D. Holmes, Executive Director, Fieldstone Counseling

“A Big Change Happenedⷚ is a sweet reminder to children that theⷚ Lord is always near, guiding, watching over, and offering a veryⷚ present help in the midst of big changes. Every child (and adult!) can benefit from its message.”
Julie Lowe, Licensed Professional Counselor; author of several books, including Safeguards and Child Proof

“In an ever-changing world, A Big Change Happened is a timely story that will help children acknowledge the feelings that come with change, while pointing them to the truth that God knows them, loves them, and is with them always. Although life may change, God never will.”
Sarah Walton, Author of The Long Road Home

“Change can be scary for children, and they need to know they are not alone. In Darby Strickland’s book,ⷚ A Big Change Happened, children hear the truth of God’s nearness in the midst of change through the delightful story of Wallace the whale. This book will be a great conversation starter and a means of encouragement to children who are worried about change.”
Beth M. Broom, Executive Director, Bridgehaven Counseling Associates; executive director, Christian Trauma Healing Network

“This charming book is sure to be a comfort and encouragement for children who are nervous about life’s changes. Whether it's moving to a new house, starting a new school, or working through a change in their regular routine, Wallace’s story doesn’t just calm their fears—it gently directs their hearts toward trusting God during uncertainty. The melody of Psalm 139 is woven beautifully throughout and then brought to the forefront for parents to use to teach their children about God's constant presence and care. This book is a must-have for families going through any transition.”
Eliza Huie, Licensed Professional Counselor; author of Count Yourself Calm, Teens and Anxiety, and Trauma Aware

“Whether a child is navigating a move or other significant changes, Wallace offers a gentle and beautiful story that reassures young hearts of the security, comfort, and magnitude of God’s love. It’s a valuable resource for both families and churches.”
Korrie Johnson, Founder, Good Book Mom; children’s book reviewer

“Darby Strickland’s book is a valuable resource for parents, grandparents, and ministry leaders, helping children navigate life changes. Through Wallace Whale’s relatable questions and the book’s beautiful illustrations, it gently points readers to God’s faithful love and promises. Ideal for encouraging faith during difficult times, this book is both comforting and practical—perfect to keep and share with others. Buy several to keep on hand!”
Jeanette C. Simpson, Director of Children’s Ministry, St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Columbia, SC

“In a world full of uncertainty, children and their caregivers need tools that help them navigate necessary changes and disruptive challenges in ways that promote curiosity and growth. A Big Change Happened gives language and story to help those transitions anchoring them in the forever of God’s love and care.”
Leslie Vernick, Speaker; relationship coach; author of The Emotionally Destructive Marriage and The Emotionally Destructive Relationship

“Change is hard. It doesn't matter if we're big or little, young or old. Inⷚ A Big Change Happened, Darby Strickland uses the endearing Wallace Whale to help children rest in God's presence amidst change. Make this a part of your bedtime routine and your children will have the foundation they need for a lifetime of changes.”
Brad Hambrick, Pastor of Counseling, The Summit Church; author of Transformative Friendships

“This touching story of Wallace Whale’s journey into the unknown is built on the bedrock truths of Psalm 139—God is with us everywhere we go, no matter how new or scary the experience we face. It's an excellent resource for families facing changes large and small: deeply encouraging, beautifully illustrated, and profoundly true. Highly recommend!”
Sarah Reju, Author of Jesus Saves and The Wheelies series