The book, "Naughty No More," written by Drs. Jodi Ann and Michael Mullen, along with their two kids Andrew and Leah, hit the shelves during the beginning of April. The Mullen's had a special gathering for students and friends of Oswego, Friday, April 26.

     "Naughty No More" is not your typical, chapter-by-chapter book, but is written through the point of view of the Mullen's kids, Leah and Andrew.
Jodi described is as "a workbook for children who want to make good decisions."

     The Mullen's began working on this piece of nonfiction in Aug. 2012 and it is now available through Amazon and Balboa Press. "Naughty No More" focuses on a simple and kid-friendly lifestyle parents and children can take an interest in. Structurally, the book contains real life situations in which kids can decide what the right choice is to make.

     "What we were trying to do (with this book) is help others invest and take time to help their kids future," Michael explained. "We learned how to really work together as a family and set up times when we would work on a certain part of the book every Sunday and accomplish a goal together."

     Jodi Mullen is a child therapist and would question what she would do in each scenario of the book and go from there. Both she and Michael have counseling backgrounds and use this to their advantage when creating the theme of the book, which the family agreed would be about kids and their behaviors. Not to mention, the delicious, healthy and fun recipes which are offered throughout the book too.

     "The book is also great for counselors or people looking for a better way to understand children's behaviors," Jodi said.

     The Mullen's plan on writing another book, but for now are happy to have accomplished a family-oriented book. "Naughty No More" is sectioned off into various chapters of real-life emotions, situations and activities for kids and parents to do to make the best possible decision. The rivers end bookstore, 19 W. Bridge St., will be hosting the Mullen's book party at 6 p.m., June 12.

Mullen family background:

     Andrew: Is a 9-year old who loves the family's two cats. He enjoys playing basketball, football, soccer and lacrosse. He also enjoys reading. Andrew thinks he may either want to be an engineer or make special effects in movies.
     Leah: Is 13-years-old. She enjoys writing, figure skating, dance, jewelry making, singing, and acting. Leah wants to be an actress, chef or author when she grows up. Publishing this book was a great start for her! She describes herself as funny, nice, silly and a little weird.
     Jodi: She is a professor, counselor, author, parent coach and play therapist. She owns Integrative Counseling Services and at work, she gets to play with kids to help them feel better. She particularly likes to play outside.
     Michael: He is also a counselor and a professor at SUNY Oswego. He does consulting work for businesses and coaches professionals. He has also coached high school and college basketball and currently works coaching in youth sports.