Two books from one mother's bedside.

Vivian Hartman wrote down what she learned caring for her daughter Sophia, so the next parent wouldn't have to learn it alone.

One tells the story. One walks beside you.

Sophia's Angels of Mother's Love

Written at Sophia's bedside. The story of Sophia, her family, and the love that became Sophia's Angels.

About the book

A Lay Mother's Guide for Healing

Everything Vivian did to care for and comfort Sophia, written down as a workbook for the next parent.

About the workbook
Cover of Sophia's Angels of Mother's Love by Vivian Hartman

The book

Sophia's Angels of Mother's Love

By Vivian Hartman

Vivian wrote this book at Sophia's bedside. It's the story behind Sophia's Angels: a deeply personal journey through childhood illness, family, hope, advocacy, and the love that inspired a mission to help other families. Written from lived experience, so Sophia's story and the lessons born from it can keep helping others.

Cover of A Lay Mother's Guide for Healing by Vivian Hartman

The workbook

A Lay Mother's Guide for Healing

By Vivian Hartman  /  213 pages

When Sophia's doctors feared the worst, Vivian stayed at her bedside and used everything she had taught herself to comfort her daughter. Sophia made it home for Christmas.

This workbook is what Vivian learned in those days, written down so another parent can keep it close.

  • Comfort techniques you can use with your child
  • What to expect during a hospital stay
  • A glossary that translates the medical terms you'll hear

Written from a mother's experience, not as medical advice. Use it alongside your child's care team.

"You are amazing and you are not alone."

Vivian Hartman

About Vivian Hartman

Vivian is Sophia's mother and the founder of Sophia's Angels. During Sophia's illness she organized bone marrow drives and cancer care seminars, and taught herself reflexology, aromatherapy and visualization so she could comfort her daughter at the bedside.

After Sophia died in 2005, Vivian spent eighteen years asking California lawmakers to close the gaps her family fell through. In October 2023 that work became law: AB 847, Sophia's Act.

She has been featured on CNN, ABC, NBC and CBS, and was named a KTLA Remarkable Woman. She writes the way she talks to parents: plainly, as one of them.

Learn about Sophia's Act

Questions about the books

Which one should I read first?

If you want to know Sophia and where this work began, start with Sophia's Angels of Mother's Love. If you're caring for a child now and want something practical to keep nearby, start with the workbook. They stand on their own, and they also read well together.

Do I need to buy a book to get help from Sophia's Angels?

No. Our parent course and family resources are free, and so is calling us. Nothing we offer depends on buying anything.

Is the workbook medical advice?

No. It's written from Vivian's experience as a parent. Your child's doctors and nurses lead their care. The workbook is meant to help you understand what's happening, comfort your child, and speak up for them with confidence.

Can I send a copy to a family I know?

Yes. Call us at 818-362-8677 and we'll help you get a copy to them.

Need support right now?

Our free parent course and family resources are here for any family who needs them.

Or call us: 818-362-8677

You never have to buy anything to get help from Sophia's Angels.

Want to help us reach more families?

Every gift carries Sophia's story to another parent at another bedside.

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