When the world feels big and feelings feel bigger, one small voice learns to whisper a brave truth: "God is near."In this warm, 32-page picture book, young Ava carries her plush bear and a simple prayer through ordinary moments-pancakes with Mom, first-day jitters, playground noise, storms on the window, songs in church, and a new friend at school. With tender prose and cozy, luminous artwork, When God Is Near shows children how to notice God's presence in both joy and worry, teaching a habit of calm trust they can carry for life.Perfect for bedtime or classroom read-alouds, this story gently reinforces Psalm 46:1 ("God is our refuge and strength") and models short, child-friendly prayers. Parents, teachers, and ministry leaders will love how it opens simple conversations about anxiety, kindness, and prayer-without being heavy or preachy.Kids will learn to: Pause, breathe, and remember: God is close in every momentFind courage at school, church, and with new friendsTurn everyday thank-yous and worries into short prayersShare God's comfort with others who feel aloneA hopeful keepsake for ages 4-9, ideal for family devotions, Sunday school gifts, and faith-building story time.