Waiting for Max: A NICU Story

This heartfelt and imagination-filled picture book helps families navigate the NICU journey from a sibling's perspective--offering comfort, connection, and a big dose of hope.

Louise can't wait to meet her new little brother, Max! But he arrives earlier than expected and must stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) until he's strong enough to come home. Waiting is hard. Really hard. So Louise uses her BIG imagination to dream up creative plans to bring Max home.

Inspired by author Emily Rosen's own NICU experience, Waiting for Max gently validates the big emotions that come with welcoming a premature baby. With whimsical illustrations and an honest, child-centered voice, it's a reassuring story for big siblings, loving families, and anyone supporting NICU journeys.

Here's what makes Waiting for Max special:

- Sibling-Centered Storytelling: Offers comfort and age-appropriate perspective for young siblings navigating the NICU experience.

- Empathy Through Imagination: Shows how creative thinking and play can help kids process fear, sadness, and uncertainty.

- Gentle Guidance: Encourages meaningful conversations about medical situations and family changes.

- Authentic & Hopeful: Written and illustrated by NICU-connected creators, with a heartfelt author's note for added context.

A perfect gift for NICU siblings and family members, Waiting for Max reminds readers that love and patience can bridge any distance. At its heart is the message that no matter how long it takes, some things truly are worth the wait.

Author: Emily Rosen
Publisher: Collective Book Studio
Published: 10/21/2025
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.68lbs
ISBN: 9781685552800
Audience: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 08/25/2025
Kirkus Reviews 09/15/2025

About the Author
Emily Rosen is a mom, a freelance creative director and copywriter, and a children's book author. She has built her career working for top advertising agencies and brands and strives to use her creativity for good--especially to empower women, mothers, and kids. Inspired by her son Max's time in the NICU, she wrote her first children's book to help families like hers. When Emily's not writing, she loves going for a run around the neighborhood, singing karaoke with friends, and reading to her two kids. Proudly born and raised in Cleveland, OH, she now lives in Los Angeles, CA, with her husband and their family. Learn more about Emily and her work at emilyrosencreative.com.

Esther Diana is a freelance children's illustrator based in Madrid, Spain, originally from Seville, where she studied Fine Arts at the University of Seville. After completing studies in the UK and Italy, she began her career as a concept artist in the game industry. Esther has since illustrated books and children's products, working primarily in digital formats while enjoying sketching and blending digital and traditional techniques. A lover of art, books, and libraries, she finds inspiration in nature and countryside walks. In her free time, she enjoys the company of her family and her lovely ginger cat.