Book of the Week: Stay Safe with Ruby and Reuben by Sneha Sabu

Stay Safe with Ruby and Reuben by Sneha Sabu is a vibrant, interactive guide that teaches young children essential safety skills in a clear, empowering, and compassionate way.

Safety, Awareness, Empowerment.

Editorial Review

Understanding boundaries and personal safety is crucial, especially in today’s world, where children must confront complex social environments. Sneha Sabu’s Stay Safe with Ruby and Reuben addresses these issues with simplicity and tact, providing children a safe space to explore potentially uncomfortable topics in a way that empowers them. With interactive questions, practical scenarios, and clear guidance, the book gives children both the vocabulary and the confidence to express themselves and recognize unsafe situations. This proactive approach is essential, as studies show that open communication about safety and boundaries fosters greater self-assurance and security in children.

Through relatable characters Ruby and Reuben, Sabu walks young readers through situations they might encounter at school, during sleepovers, or with strangers. Each scenario is paired with concrete actions—such as shouting, running, and telling a trusted adult—that children can practice and memorize. The activities, like identifying “safe” and “unsafe” situations, engage kids in a manner that reinforces these lessons without instilling fear. I particularly appreciated the sleepover scene where Ruby cleverly uses a “secret code” to communicate trouble to her parents; this technique not only emphasizes safety but also reassures young readers that they are never alone.

Some readers might find the direct approach too intense, especially for younger or more sensitive children. However, those who recognize the importance of early safety education will deeply appreciate this book’s realism and sensitivity. The book shares a spirit similar to I Said No! by Zack and Kimberly King, which also encourages open discussion about personal boundaries. Stay Safe with Ruby and Reuben stands out with its vibrant illustrations and age-appropriate language, effectively balancing seriousness with warmth.

This book, like a well-tuned safety net, weaves compassion, strength, and clarity to protect young minds, underscoring the power of knowledge in fostering resilience, kindness, and peace within diverse communities.

Buy the Book and Make a Difference

Purchasing this book is a powerful way to make a difference: every sale directly funds nonprofit organizations dedicated to protecting children from sexual abuse. In addition, proceeds help provide free copies to children who otherwise couldn’t access it, amplifying the book’s positive impact.

This book has earned recognition for its mission, establishing credibility with nonprofits and schools alike. The author is committed to expanding its reach and works closely with partners to distribute it for free to children who need it most. With every new partnership, the book’s message reaches further, empowering more young readers with essential knowledge and support.

In June 2022, the author partnered with a nonprofit to circulate the book across 17 states in India. By 2024, multiple partnerships enabled the distribution of 10,000 free copies to children in six states of Northeast India, where child sexual abuse rates are alarmingly high. The initiative’s success has also inspired 26 schools in the region to incorporate the book into their curriculum.

By buying this book, you’re not only supporting a life-changing cause but helping to spread its vital message to children who need it most.

For links to purchase the book and for more details, view it on Goodreads.

Books for Humanity Global’s Book of the Week Award

Stay Safe with Ruby and Reuben deserves this award for its impactful approach to promoting a universal message of child safety and resilience. Sabu’s book combines educational value, empathy, and active learning, which not only benefits individual readers but also contributes positively to families and communities at large. Its focus on empowering children with the knowledge and language to tackle situations makes it a powerful resource for fostering safe, informed, and respectful societies.

About the Book of the Week Award

Discover our carefully chosen Book of the Week—a compelling read that offers fresh perspectives and enriches the human experience. Here, we highlight a unique book that captures the essence of storytelling, whether through gripping narratives, thought-provoking themes, or inspiring characters. Get into our selection and explore why it’s a must-read for book lovers across the globe. Don’t miss out on our picks that celebrate the power of literature to connect, uplift, and transform.

To nominate a book for the award, visit our Awards page.