No Pockets? No Problem!
A Mrs. Crockess and Ivy Adventure
Mrs. Crockess and her best friend, Ivy, are in a race against time to reach the music shop before it closes. But there’s a problem – Mrs. Crockess has no pockets to carry her ever growing list of essentials: money, keys, phone, map, bone, lip balm… the list goes on!
With inventiveness andteamwork, this dynamic duo must tackle one quirky challenge after another.
Will their clever thinking and unbreakable friendship see them through, or will they miss their chance to rock out?
A delightful tale of persistence, problem-solving, and the magic of friendship.
Perfect for
Giggling Kids and Their Grown-ups!
No Pockets? No Problem! Coloring Pages
About the Author
Julia Kolouch
Meet Julia Kolouch, organizer extraordinaire and proud dog mom who has mastered the art of juggling three grown children, a husband, and a dog named Winston (who, much to his dismay, has no pockets). Julia’s journey as a children’s book author began at the tender age of 5 when she boldly declared her future as a teacher. Fast forward a few decades, and she has not only earned degrees from Purdue University and Lesley University but also amassed a staggering collection of over 2,000 picture books – inspiration for her new adventure as an author!
When she’s not solving life’s little puzzles, Julia can be found in Indiana with her family and a treat in her pocket for Winston.
Meet the Illustrator
Petros Bouloubasis
Petros Bouloubasis is a talented freelance illustrator who graduated from the Graphic Design Institute of Athens, Greece. His work has been widely published and exhibited across the globe, including in countries such as Greece, the USA, Spain, Germany, the UK, Japan, Australia, France, Korea, Belgium, Iran, Turkey, Slovakia, and Canada.
Petros has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious “State Prize for Illustrated Children’s Book” in 2007. He was a 2025 nominee for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Awards (ALMA).
Learn more about Petros at petrosbouloubasis.com
drumroll,
Please!
“Julia Kolouch’s playful language and engaging storytelling will keep readers entertained throughout the journey. This gentle lesson in patience and friendship, balanced with the loving bond between a girl and her dog, is accompanied by whimsical and humorous illustrations that will leave readers yearning for more adventures of Ivy and Mrs. Crockess.”
Fay Mentzer, PhD., Clinical Assistant Professor, Elementary Education, Purdue University
Who hasn’t been there?
“We just want to rock out with our best friends and a stream of problems arise to try to slow us down. With No Pockets? No Problem! Julia has crafted an homage to persistence, problem-solving, and the joy of living life’s adventures with a best friend. You will be drawn in by the vibrant art and stay for an enchanting tale of two friends tackling obstacles in their quest to make beautiful music together. A delight to snuggle in and read with your favorite story time pals.”
Michelle Salcedo, M.Ed., Author of Uncover the Roots of Challenging Behavior and international Early Childhood Speaker
ZZZZIPP! YIPPEE!
“The Adventures of Mrs Crockess: No Pockets? No Problem!” is a rollicking tale of adventure, rich with problem solving and vocabulary—and FUN! Grown-ups will love reading this book with children, and children will want to hear it again and again. A story that will capture the imagination, sense of humor, and love of adventure in people of all ages, you’ll want this book on your shelf!”
Heather Bernt-Santy, M.Ed., Host of “That Early Childhood Nerd” podcast and Program Chair of Early Childhood, Ivy Tech Community College, Lafayette, Indiana
Perfect for young readers
“No Pockets? No Problem! is a lovely storybook, perfect for young readers. Julia Kolouch has written a fun story with loveable characters and wonderful illustrations to keep little ones engaged. I very much appreciated the rhythm and repetition throughout that, research tells us, are components of early literacy development. No Pockets? No Problem! will definitely be a new addition to my children’s library!”
Richard Cohen, M.A., Creator of the viral social media sensation, “Zen and the Art of Early Childhood” and Professor of Early Childhood Education & Development, Connecticut State Community College
lovely addition to my toddler’s bookshelf
“This cute and whimsical story made my family smile and giggle with each page. As a mother to a toddler, this book has such a relatable feeling of having so much to carry while not having enough space. My favorite part is when Ivy and Mrs. Crockess make their journey to the store and it’s closed. Mrs. Crockess doesn’t give up easily, she’s persistent – just like my toddler. The artwork is inviting and entices you to study each page. I especially enjoyed the fun text and embellishment of the sounds which really brought them to life. The book was a joy to read and it’s a lovely addition to my toddler’s bookshelf that can grow with her for years to come.”
Jamie Shafer, Mom and Independent Business Owner
parents are pockets
“We all need places to store our missions, and memories. Some tasks are hard, especially for the smallest of animals, especially ones without pockets. Patiently positive Ivy knows this as she guides the pocketless Mrs. Crockess on her mission for guitar strings. They remain undaunted, despite setbacks, and Ivy is the perfect mentor to her friend Mrs. Crockess as they both learn about the rewards of persistence and ingenuity.
My fondest memory is my mother reading Alice in Wonderland to me when I was 4. Some lucky child will receive the same gift when their parents read them The Adventures of Mrs. Crockess and Ivy. Parents are pockets. They store their child’s missions and memories, until they learn to pass them on to others. Like Ivy.
And now, like you.”
Michael Morgan, PhD., Poet and Creator of Literary Pug
this heartwarming tale will captivate young readers and dog lovers of all ages
“No Pockets? No Problem! is a delightful picture book that follows the adventures of Ivy, a spirited young girl, and her loyal dog, Mrs. Crockess. The duo shares a love for music, often rocking out to their favorite tunes. However, their fun hits a snag when a string on Ivy’s guitar breaks. Together, they embark on a journey filled with challenges to find a replacement string. This heartwarming tale will captivate young readers and dog lovers of all ages with its humor and charm. The story beautifully illustrates the power of friendship and perseverance, leaving readers with a warm and satisfying conclusion.”