As students in Fairfield head back to class, Keith Stoeckeler had this message for his little ones: Be yourself and be kind.

It’s the message in his new children’s book, “The Sparkly Bun” – a story about individuality, self-esteem and self-expression. Also, instead of clothes, everyone is wearing burgers.

"I thought...what if they're all burgers and we can mess with the buns – their clothing. They're all different, and I started getting really into it."

Stoeckeler says the book came as a surprise to his family, especially his daughter, the main character.

"For her to see her dad's name on the cover, her personified in a children's book – really fun process I was able to capture,” he said. “The message has resonated with her that she understands – ‘I don't need everything I see, things cost money.'"

MORE: "The Sparkly Bun"

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