The Stinky Sock
By J.I. Willett & Katherine L. Wall
Category: Children, Facts of life, Friendship, Emotions & Feelings
32 Pages
Apr. 2026
“I always wanted to make a difference in someone’s life and this gave me that opportunity.”
~ J.I. Willett
Award Winning Author
J. I. Willett is a Healthcare Chaplain and Amazon International #1 Best-Selling author in KDP of “Affairs of the Heart” (a spiritual memoir), “Dying without Crying” (a care book for those preparing for hospice or death) “Bye Bye Butterfly:A Book About Grief, Loss and Letting Go” (hellos and goodbyes for children), and “The Stinky Sock” (family friendship and loyalty, co-authored with Katherine L. Wall). Janice has spoken publicly for Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County, and other healthcare and faith-based organizations, and has facilitated caregivers and bereavement groups. Ms. Willett has been featured on radio, TV and in newspapers; has written blogs for a UK medical website, and has provided video messages and scripting for her local hospital.
Co-Author Katherine L. Wall is a student, athlete, and creative; with a big heart, courageous spirit, and a deep love of family, the world and the people in it. She is also the granddaughter and favorite person of her co-author, Janice Willett.
Where to Buy & Order Online
In world where everyone is looking for something outside themselves, here is a story to help kids see they have everything they need in their own home. Every child needs a safe space, and Fred shows them it’s not hard to find if you look in the right place.
The Stinky Sock is a funny and heartwarming picture book for preschoolers and early learning about a lonely sock searching for its’ perfect match. With humor, warmth, and a gentle message about friendship and belonging, this read-aloud story is perfect for ages 3-8, bedtime reading, and classroom sharing.
Reader Reviews
What makes Stinky Sock especially special is its gentle lesson. After traveling far and wide, the sock discovers that the one thing he was searching for all along—his perfect match—was right at home. This simple but powerful ending teaches children an important message about family, belonging, and appreciating what we already have in our lives.
– Erica Reynolds, Ed.D.
In a world where everyone is looking for something outside themselves, here is a story to help kids see they have everything they need in their own home. Every child needs a safe space, and Fred shows them it’s not hard to find if you look in the right place.
– Hannah Kerr, BSN, CCRN
More from JI Willett
Become a Better Version of Yourself Today.
Own the First Aid Kit for the Soul. These are the Books You Will Always Want to Have at Your Side.
Bye Bye Butterfly
Dying Without Crying
