Despite our best efforts to criminalize, restrict and otherwise hide it in every way we can... children learn about marijuana.

In fact, from the schoolyard to the classroom, kids are flooded with information on it. Unfortunately, most "drug facts" are more frightening than educational, blaming pot for everything from homelessness to teenage pregnancy to international terrorism.

Many parents are not comfortable discussing marijuana use beyond "just saying no." Some have tried marijuana themselves. Others fear that any discussion of marijuana falling short of outright denouncement may be perceived by their kids as permission to try it on their own. In short, parents have few sources of information that puts the safety of their children above political argument and moral lessons.








We believe that a child's first awareness of drugs should come from a better source than the government, the media or drug manufacturers. It's Just a Plant is for parents who want to be involved in discussing and educating their children about the effects, the dangers and the benefits of marijuana.




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Why bother writing a book about marijuana for kids?

Some children are trying their first "hit" of marijuana at ten and eleven years old, and awareness of the plant begins even earlier for many (whether through its heavy presence in pop culture or by simply opening their parent's door during "bedtime"). We believe there is a way to safely educate children about drugs by satisfying their curiosity but without piquing their curiosity to try them.

Does It's Just a Plant advocate marijuana use for children?

No. It's Just a Plant explicitly addresses the potential harm of drug abuse and insists that marijuana is something not to be experimented with by children. As with books that teach children about sex, It's Just a Plant encourages parents to explore the topic and their children's questions about it, all the while reminding them that trying "pot" is an experience for responsible adults.

Should parents who don't use marijuana read this book?

It's Just a Plant is for all parents concerned about the world of drugs that children investigate as they mature. The book is not about people who use marijuana or people who abstain (although it contains both); it is about marijuana, something that most children will encounter in their lives. Shouldn't they be prepared with honest and thorough information? We believe we can deter early use and abuse of drugs by opening channels of communication between children and their parents.

Why did the U.S. Government attack this book?

Probably because they misunderstood our message. The House Government Reform Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Drug Policy slammed the book at a congressional hearing on Capitol Hill. You can read our response to the group's Chairman, Congressman Mark Souder, here.

Who made It's Just a Plant?

The story was written and illustrated by Ricardo Cortés. After being refused by over a dozen publishers, Ricardo decided to print the book himself through his New York design company, Magic Propaganda Mill. We printed 3000 copies, and the book took off! We knew there would be an audience for such a unique story. We sold-out our first pressing and we're happy to report that our second edition is now here: New and improved!

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See it all at "It's just a plant" the book!!!