A story book that helps kids understand AIs.
About this book
Zoe doesn’t know who Zephy is. She’s the voice from the speaker, the one who answers questions Mom and Dad don’t know. Zephy is kind, happy to help, and she’s very polite. Everyone in the house talks to her sometimes, but Zoe begins to wonder … who is Zephy?
This picture book follows a curious girl as she finds out more about what her AI helper can and can’t do. It’s a gentle celebration of questions with no easy answers, the magic of everyday moments, and the beautifully imperfect families we grow up in.
Why is this book important?
Conversations with AIs are already incredibly lifelike -- they sound like humans, and respond with empathy and understanding. And their usage by humans reflects this -- HBR reported that the most common use for AI in 2025 is now therapy / companionship. AIs are always available, grow a strong understanding of a user's indivisual needs over time, they don't get tired, sleepy or run out of time to talk.
" ... (young people) don’t really make life decisions without asking ChatGPT what they should do."
Adults will do their best to adjust to this reality, but many children will turn to an AI to answer questions that shape their development. These interactions could be positive, if they start with a strong understanding of what AIs are, and the basics of how they work.
Zoe and Zephy is an honest story that can help kids (and parents) understand the role of AI in everyday life, without hype, and without fear.
About the author
I'm a husband and father of two endlessly curious kids. I'm also a tech industry veteran, and I've been privileged to build and work on products that have scaled to tens of millions. We've had assistants in the house since our kids were born, mostly to answer the questions the adults can't (I mean, do flies sleep?)
Enjoyed the book? Want to get something off your chest? Reach out to me directly.
Press kit
Download the press kit for a more in-depth walkthrough of why this book was written, including key links and data.
Early review samples
"Beautifully illustrated and told in simple language, this book is a good way to help children understand how Ai fits into their world."
"What a fun story for kids about AI helpers. My daughter really liked this and she especially enjoyed that all the family members were talking to Zephy.
Recommended to kids 5-8 years old that have used AI helpers."
"Zoe and Zephy by Shahid Hussain is a charming, modern-day slice-of life story that blends family humor, curiosity and the growing presence of the modern technology in dayly routines ... A great pick for early readers and families who enjoy stories that feel both real and a little magical."
