By: Paul White

Some books are written to entertain. Others, to educate. But Tammie Sue Landers’ debut children’s book, Do You Have an Unsafe Secret?, was born from something far more raw and personal, the kind of heartbreak that could have stayed hidden, but instead became a call to action.

This book isn’t fiction. It’s a mission.

Landers was shaken to the core when abuse struck within her own family, involving someone she loved dearly. What followed wasn’t just grief, but a deep, urgent need to protect others. She didn’t write Do You Have an Unsafe Secret? because she wanted to be an author. She wrote it because she felt compelled to speak out.

“This story came out of real trauma involving my niece and my granddaughter,” Landers shared in a recent interview. “I kept asking myself, how can I help prevent this from happening to someone else’s child?”

That single question sparked a project that has since rippled into schools, churches, and homes across the country, creating conversations around one of society’s most difficult and often avoided topics: child abuse and secrecy.

A Child’s Guide to Speaking Up

Do You Have an Unsafe Secret? is gentle, but it doesn’t shy away from the truth. With warmth and clarity, Landers helps young readers understand the difference between safe secrets (like surprise parties) and unsafe secrets, the kind that may cause fear, confusion, and emotional harm.

She introduces this concept with carefully chosen language and a nurturing tone, making the book accessible to children as young as five. Alongside simple, friendly illustrations, the book poses direct but vital questions:

• Does someone make you feel scared or uncomfortable?

• Is someone touching you in a way that doesn’t feel right?

• Do you feel afraid to tell someone about it?

If a child answers yes, they’re gently guided with empathy, not fear, to talk to a trusted adult. The book even includes a tear-out page where children can circle answers silently and hand the page to a “safe person” if they’re too afraid to speak.

“I wrote this to give kids language,” Landers explained. “They often don’t know how to describe what’s happening, or they’re too scared to say it out loud. This book can help open that door.”

The Power of Faith and Family

As both a mother and grandmother, Landers says her love for children fueled every page. But her Christian faith gave her the strength to face the darkest parts of the story.

While the faith-based elements are woven subtly throughout the book, they are deeply intentional. At the end, children are invited to say a prayer if they choose, or simply feel comforted knowing someone is praying for their safety.

It’s not just a story, it’s a lifeline disguised as a picture book.

A Hard Book to Write and a Harder Truth to Face

Writing: Do You Have an Unsafe Secret? wasn’t easy. Landers admits the process forced her to revisit traumatic memories and question herself. Could earlier conversations have helped prevent what happened?

“Reliving those moments was difficult,” she said. “I kept wondering, could I have had these conversations with my grandkids sooner? Would that have made a difference?”

But instead of letting that question weigh her down, she used it as motivation.

The book was written quickly once she made the decision to start, but getting it published took time. Landers struggled to find a publisher that was willing to take on such a sensitive topic, especially one directed at children.

A Trusted Tool for Parents, Therapists, and Educators

While the primary audience is children ages 5–10, the book is also a tool for adults. Therapists, pastors, and parents have already begun incorporating it into their work.

Landers’ own therapist bought multiple copies to use with clients. Her church has integrated the book into its ministry outreach. Friends and family have shared stories of their own, some for the very first time, after reading it.

The book includes specific advice for parents, including how to spot signs of abuse, how to create a safe space for dialogue, and how to respond if a child opens up. There’s even a section called the “Protection Page,” outlining safety tips and tools to help caregivers stay alert.

What’s Next for Tammie Landers?

Landers isn’t stopping here.

She’s already working on her second children’s book, which will focus on other tough-but-important topics that kids struggle to talk about, things like bullying, emotional abuse, and boundaries.

Her vision? A full educational series that could become part of everyday learning in schools, churches, homes, and therapy settings.

But for now, she’s hoping that Do You Have an Unsafe Secret? reaches the hands of every child who needs it and every adult who can help.

“I want this book to be available in as many places as possible, not just in homes, but in libraries, classrooms, counseling offices, even doctors’ offices,” she says. “Because silence can be harmful. And speaking up can make a difference.”

Do You Have an Unsafe Secret? is available now in paperback. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or simply someone who cares, this is a book you may want to read. Because every child deserves to feel safe. Every child deserves to be heard.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is intended for general informational purposes and does not substitute for professional advice. The topics discussed, including child abuse, trauma, and related strategies for intervention, are sensitive in nature. For personalized guidance or support, readers are encouraged to seek assistance from qualified professionals, including therapists, counselors, or child protection experts.