A Comforting Tale for Sensitive Souls: Connie Rey on Mango’s Big Surprise

In The Adventures of Binky and Mango: Mango’s Big Surprise, Connie Rey gently explores what it means to adapt to change, accept new friendships, and find love in unexpected places. This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces readers to Mango, a ginger cat set in his ways, and the whirlwind arrival of Binky, a lively black kitten who turns Mango’s world upside down.

Told in charming rhyme, the story resonates with both children and grown-ups navigating life’s transitions, particularly those involving new routines, big feelings, or the arrival of a new sibling or friend.

We caught up with author Connie Rey to learn more about the inspiration behind Binky and Mango, what it means to be a “gentle story” writer, and how her experience as an educational psychologist shaped this delightful tale.

What inspired you to create Binky and Mango’s story, and why was it important to explore change from a sensitive child’s perspective?

The inspiration came from wanting to give a voice to highly sensitive children, kids who feel emotions deeply and can be easily overwhelmed by change. I wanted to explore change from a sensitive child’s perspective because so often, children who react strongly are misunderstood. Through Binky and Mango’s story, I hoped to show that these feelings are valid and natural and to provide a gentle way for parents and caregivers to understand, support, and co-regulate with their child during moments of uncertainty or surprise.

Mango is such a relatable character - he likes routine, quiet, and comfort. Was he based on anyone you know?

Yes, Mango is loosely based on me, but I come from a line of highly sensitive people, so they could be based on most of my family! I drew from my own experiences and observations. But the story isn’t just personal; we’re seeing more children today who seem to have sensitive nervous systems and react strongly to changes in their environment.

Research on sensory processing sensitivity shows that some people are naturally more attuned to stimuli, more aware of subtleties, and more deeply affected by new experiences. By creating Mango, I wanted to show that these traits are normal and can be supported with understanding, patience, and co-regulation.

This story offers such a soothing and respectful approach to big emotions. How did your background in educational psychology inform your writing?

My 20 years as an educational psychologist definitely shaped how I wrote this story. I’ve always been interested in how children experience big emotions, and as a psychologist and a mum to a highly sensitive child, I’ve seen firsthand how intense feelings can be misunderstood. Many people assume that sensitivity or strong emotional reactions are signs of autism, but research shows that many children are highly sensitive without being autistic.

Through this story, I wanted to offer another lens to understand behaviours, one that’s validating, respectful, and gentle, showing that sensitivity is a natural way some children experience the world.

What do you hope highly sensitive children and their families take away from Mango’s Big Surprise?

I hope highly sensitive children see themselves in Mango and feel that their big feelings are valid and understood. I also want families to recognise that sensitivity is a normal trait that needs a gentle approach and is not a problem to fix. The story emphasises that it’s not always about teaching children strategies (they may adopt them in time), but it’s also about how parents adapt, stay calm, and provide supportive presence. By co-regulating with their child, parents can help them navigate change and big emotions with confidence and reassurance.

The illustrations are absolutely adorable! How did the collaboration with illustrator Jenny Yevheniia Lisova come about?

Working with Jenny Yevheniia Lisova was an absolute joy! We connected through ‘Bear with Us Productions’, who offer support to those who are self-publishing. I wanted illustrations that could capture the warmth, emotion, and gentle humour of Binky and Mango’s story, and Jenny’s style was a perfect fit.

I chose cats as the characters rather than children because animals can make it easier for kids (and adults) to connect with emotions and behaviours without feeling personally exposed or judged. Cats are relatable, expressive, and endearing, which helps convey big feelings and sensitive experiences in a gentle, approachable way.

Jenny really brought Binky and Mango to life, perfectly reflecting the emotional depth of highly sensitive experiences.

You included a powerful parent note and a heartfelt letter from Binky and Mango at the end. Why did you feel that was important to include?

I included the parent note to draw attention to the concept of high sensitivity, which is sometimes being overlooked in today’s neurodevelopmental landscape. I also wanted to reassure children and normalise big feelings, letting them know that anxieties around change can be experienced by lots of people and that those feelings are okay. Finding ways to calm those feelings is key, and they don’t have to do this alone.

What was your favourite scene or moment to write in this book?

My favourite part to write was the scene where Mango is being comforted by Brenda. He’s trying to explain why he’s so upset, and with her gentle reassurance and unconditional love, he’s able to calm down and reflect on how his behaviour might have appeared to others. I love the illustrations that accompany this moment. They are heartwarming and relaxing, and they really convey a strong sense of care, acceptance, and psychological safety.

It’s a scene that shows how children can feel secure enough to express big feelings and learn from them when they are supported with empathy and understanding. It captures the essence of co-regulation and the power of supportive presence.

Are there any routines, rituals, or special “quiet corners” that helped you as a child, or that you still turn to now?

Quiet time has always been essential for me, both as a child and now. Doing something I enjoy, like writing, allows me to escape, process my thoughts, and feel grounded. Living in the countryside at the edge of a forest gives me another special “quiet corner”. Being in nature helps me reconnect, slow down, and feel calm. I believe it’s so important for children, especially highly sensitive ones, to have spaces and activities that allow them to recharge, reflect, and feel safe.

Can we expect more adventures from Binky and Mango in the future?

Yes! I’m currently in the process of writing two more adventures featuring Binky and Mango. I’m excited to continue exploring their world, diving into new experiences, and highlighting more moments of big feelings, sensitivity, and the gentle ways children and parents can navigate them together.

Where can readers follow you and learn more about your books and resources for sensitive children?

Readers can follow me on Instagram, @GentleStoriesByConnie, to learn more about my books, upcoming releases, and, in time, resources for supporting highly sensitive children. I share tips, insights, and inspiration for both children and parents, as well as glimpses into the world of Binky and Mango.