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NEW YORK, May 22, 2025 — One of the most important lessons parents can teach their children is how to properly brush their teeth. Timed for National Dental Care Month, Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic (The Collective Book Studio; May 6, 2025; Hardcover; ISBN: 978-1685559281), by Dr. Michael “Mike” King, with art by Shahar Kober, tells the story of Ruby Finkelman, a young girl living in the Village of Kvellville.
Ruby is smart, funny, and a leader among her friends. One day, she admits she dislikes brushing her teeth, which leads other children in Kvellville to stop making their beds, cleaning their rooms, and showing respect. Soon, even adults start to act out, creating a chaotic mess.
This prompts Ruby to realize that her actions set off the disorder. Determined to make things right, she rushes home to brush her teeth and tidy up. Her positive actions inspire other children to help restore order. Before long, everyone in Kvellville is acting like a mensch again, and Ruby knows the real magic lies in doing what’s right.
1. Establish a routine: Children should brush their teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime, as part of their daily routine. Supervise their brushing and help them ensure they are brushing all the surfaces of their teeth.
2. Brush for two minutes: The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth for at least two minutes to remove plaque and maintain oral health effectively. Using a timer or playing a song can help children brush for the full two minutes.
3. Lead by example: Children learn by watching, so brush your teeth with them to show them how to do it.
4. Make brushing fun and engaging: Play toothbrushing songs, use brushing apps, or let them brush a doll’s teeth first. Allow your child to pick their toothbrush and toothpaste (with your approval).
About the Author
Dr. “Mike” King is a pediatric dentist and comedian who charms young patients with humor and magic. He penned children’s books Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic, Flossopher and the Brushing Trees, Enamel the Camel, and the touching Dad Spelled Backward, detailing his path to fatherhood. He resides in NYC with his family. For more information, please visit
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
