A Kind World
Wow! So much wonderfulness has happened with my Kind World Publishing family! KWP, launching for the Spring 2022 publishing season started it all. And with its mission of connecting the world through stories—stories that express kids’ big feelings, big questions, and big dreams, stories that celebrate curiosity and build bridges, there was no way I wouldn’t fall in love and jump in head first! Our fearless leader Patricia Stockland (and tough-as-nails CEO, Reese) asked me to be a contracted designer and art director after we’d worked together on Capstone projects. I was onboard immediately. KWP’s goal, aesthetic, and publishing expertise is everything you want in a publishing partner.
There’s so much swirling around the Kind World…world this past couple of seasons, I’m taking this opportunity to circle the wagons and share everything we’ve put out into the universe…so far!
Starting from the beginning, I’m psyched to share the recap of the wonderful books I’ve been able to be a part of.
Maddie and Mabel
Spring 2022
Story by Kari Allen
Art by Tatjana Mai-Wyss
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
Meet Maddie and Mabel, two spunky sisters who navigate their relationship with humor and heart. Maddie is the big sister. Mabel is the little sister. But who is actually in charge? Mabel who never stops asking questions? Or Maddie who can be bossy and demanding? Readers will see that being in charge might not be as important as working together. The first book in this early chapter book series introduces two relatable characters that make mistakes as they learn important life lessons.
“A real charmer.”
— Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
“A lovely easy reader about the power of family stories and the bond sisters share.”
— School Library Journal, Starred Review
“Throughout the amiable, episodic text, readers can see each girl’s point of view, and the expressive illustrations have their own breezy charm . . . An inviting, amusing series debut.”
— Booklist
“Maddie and Mabel play, fight, and make up with grace and charm in Kari Allen’s positive early reader about resolving conflicts and cherishing one’s family.”
— Foreword Reviews
The Struggle Bus
Spring 2022
Story and Words by Julie Koon
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
Sometimes things are really tough. It’s just too hard, you’ve had enough. Grumble, rumble, bump, and roar, The Struggle Bus is at your door. Strap in and hold on tight! Through all the ups and downs, you have what it takes to do hard things. Rolling, rollicking rhymes take readers on a journey of perseverance, where challenges are faced and mountains are climbed.
“The Struggle Bus is perhaps the best SEL text I have read this year.”
— Kids Read — NetGalley
“This would be a wonderful addition to any library, counselor’s office, or teacher’s classroom. I highly recommend this book!”
— Carolyn C., Librarian — NetGalley
SCARY FAIRY IN WICKED WOOD
Spring 2022
Story by Jana Bauer
Art by Caroline Thaw
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
Scary Fairy blows into Wicked Wood on a fierce Southern Wind and immediately begins disturbing the peace. She discards Squirrel’s acorns to make her new bedroom. She uses Hedgehog as a hair brush without even asking! The inhabitants of Wicked Wood are not pleased. But when Scary Fairy finally packs up to go home, the animal friends realize a little disturbance might be just what they need.
“Reminiscent of classic children’s books, Bauer’s tales put strong-willed characters into whimsical situations to teach moral lessons . . . The nostalgic Scary Fairy in Wicked Wood conveys timeless wisdom through charming children’s fantasy stories.”
— Foreword Reviews, Starred Review
LUMBER BABY
Fall 2022
Story by Patricia Stockland
Art by Amy Jindra and Tim Palin
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
For all those exhausted, overwhelmed parents and their never-sit-still toddlers who despise sleep comes a cute and quirky tale of getting the bedtime routine just right. Never underestimate the power of an attention-deprived older sibling to creatively problem-solve the bedtime battle. Visual humor and lyrical rhyming text depict the utter chaos of living with the joyful, rambunctious Lumber Baby and will have the whole family in stitches as they turn each page.
A delightful tale both of individuality and family endurance, Lumber Baby captures the best of boisterous toddlerhood and of ingenuity, especially in the face of exhaustion. For anyone who has experienced sleepless nights with little ones, who has given up on traditional bedtime routines, or who just enjoys a laugh at the antics of happy kids marching to their own beat, this book is for you.
“A very cute story for kids, parents, and fans of buffalo plaid.”
— Mel Kownacki, Librarian — NetGalley
“I am absolutely in love with this book. It would be so good as gifts for parents when they have their second baby! It’s funny and sweet and just so much fun.”
— Megan M., Librarian ― NetGalley
VIVA’S VOICE
Fall 2022
Story by Raquel Donoso
Art by Carlos Vélez
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
Five-year-old Viva learns there is a need for girls with powerful voices everywhere when she helps Papi raise his voice on the picket line.
Viva’s Papi is a bus driver and Viva loves going to work with him. The sounds of the traffic and the voices of the passengers are music to Viva’s ears. When she finds out that Papi’s union is going on strike, she convinces Papi to take her along to the picket line. When quiet Papi is too nervous to give his speech, Viva uses her powerful voice to give him the confidence to find his own. A first introduction to labor unions, strikes, picket lines, and workers’ rights, this powerful picture book is both educational and endearing.
Debut author Raquel Donoso has crafted a beautiful story about courage, family, and using your voice to help others. Viva’s story is based on Donoso’s own childhood experience, in which her father’s union went on strike.
“Inspiring and bold.”
— Kirkus Reviews
“Energetic illustrations depict a vivacious young voice in an important and empowering role.”
— NYPL Best Books of 2022
“A Latinx girl with a big voice inspires her picketing father to use his at a rally for workers’ rights. Rambunctious Viva has had a mighty voice since she was born. She especially loves to greet her bus driver father’s customers as they enter the vehicle. But when he goes on strike for better pay and benefits, she can’t ride with him anymore. As Viva’s soft spoken father tries to step on the platform to make a speech, the brave girl stands alongside him and gives him a boost of courage. In this simple text, Donoso introduces readers to the concepts of workers’ rights, protest, and strikes through the eyes of a precocious little girl. The accessible narrative is complemented by vibrant, candy-colored illustrations. Viva has a vivacious personality; Vélez adeptly infuses her facial expressions with mischief and energy. She is constantly in motion, and the energy jumps off the page. The pictures present a bustling city full of life. When Viva accompanies her father to the picket line, she sees the workers and eye-catching signs and right away jumps into the fray, happily using her loud voice for good. Spanish words and phrases are sprinkled throughout. VERDICT This sweet and accessible primer on strikes is a solid choice for picture book collections.”
— SLJ
I’VE NEVER MET MY GRANDPA
Fall 2022
Story by Shannon Zigmund
Art by Mackinzie Rekers
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
A realistic story of a child’s curiosity about death and lost loved ones.
This sweet and poignant story paints a picture of a little girl’s curiosity to know her grandfather, who died before she was born. What was he like? Will she ever be able to meet him? She starts off on her own discovery journey, gathering stories and memories, finding Grandpa’s old things and trying out some of his favorites. As she pieces it all together, she realizes that maybe she doesn’t have to meet her grandpa to really know him after all.
Based on her own loss and parenting experience, debut author Shannon Zigmund has crafted a touching, timeless, and accessible tale of how a young child can come to know a loved one they’ve never met. Shared stories, memorabilia, traditions, and daydreaming weave together to create the fabric of a family member who is gone but certainly not forgotten. Readers everywhere can relate to the experience of both grief and love, and of realizing that we each hold pieces of one another in our hearts and lived lives.
“I will absolutely recommend this book to people who may need it.”
— Rachel T., Educator — NetGalley
“. . . a book that the world needs.”
— Elizabeth S., Reviewer — NetGalley
aFRaID OF YOUR nEIGHBOR
Fall 2022
Story by Katherine E. Volk
Art by Małgorzata Zając
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
A story about fear of the unknown, how easy it can be to follow a crowd, and how it only takes one friend to model kindness.
The forest has a new neighbor. No one has met him, but Frog’s ball is missing and he’s certain the neighbor must have stolen it! Most of the animal friends plan an attack . . . but Mouse has other ideas. She is determined to hear the other side of the story and give the new neighbor a chance. When the ball is returned, will the animal friends learn an important lesson?
Originally published in Belgium and The Netherlands by Clavis Books, the English translation of Afraid of Your Neighbor is now being published in North America. This clever fable cautions against the dangers of prejudice and models a heartening example of standing up for what’s right―both timely lessons sure to resonate with readers of all ages.
“I absolutely love this book.”
— Jamie Schmidt, Reviewer — Vine Voice
“. . . a phenomenal book for young kids.”
— Katy, Reviewer — Goodreads
Maddie and Mabel Take the Lead:
Book 2
Fall 2022
Story by Kari Allen
Art by Tatjana Mai-Wyss
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
The follow-up to the Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection book Maddie and Mabel
Best sisters Maddie and Mabel are back and navigating new firsts in the second book of this heartwarming series. Who does it right? Who does it best? Who goes first? Who follows? From climbing trees to dancing to starting school, the girls work through their differences together. Follow along with Maddie and Mabel as they approach new experiences with excitement and trepidation. Together, they have just the help they need to solve any new problems that come their way.
An excellent follow-up to the applauded series debut Maddie and Mabel, the second book in this collection, Maddie and Mabel Take the Lead, continues the timeless themes of sisterhood and sibling relationships in writing that is reminiscent of Frog and Toad and with illustrations that are equally as enduring in their endearing relationship. Author Kari Allen and illustrator Tatjana Mai-Wyss have crafted another delightful installment of this early chapter book series. Readers will continue to be charmed by this touching tale of siblings and friendship.
“. . . a great example of easy-to-read text with nuanced and thoughtful themes!”
— Jessica H., Librarian — NetGalley
Maddie and Mabel know they can:
Book 3
Spring 2023
Story by Kari Allen
Art by Tatjana Mai-Wyss
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
Sisters and friends Maddie and Mabel learn the importance of perseverance in the third book of this Junior Library Guild selected early chapter book series.
Best sisters Maddie and Mabel return in their third book, ready for new adventures and challenges. When Mabel has a big idea and Maddie faces a big challenge, the sisters know they’ll succeed together. But how long will it take? Who gets to decide? If you don’t get it the first time, how many times do you try again? From a risky big idea to learning to ride a bike, the sisters are there for each other through failures and frustration, together for the wait as well as the wins.
The third entry in the applauded Maddie and Mabel series, Maddie and Mabel Know They Can adds lessons on perseverance and compassion to the timeless themes of sisterhood and sibling relationships. With Kari Allen’s gentle and timeless writing, reminiscent of Frog and Toad, and delightful illustrations by Tatjana Mai-Wyss, this early chapter book adds new tales of sisterhood and friendship to this charming series.
ABUELITO
Spring 2023
Story by David Corredor Benavides & Nelly Buchet
Art by Ana Sanfelippo
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
A story about coping with loss and the magical comfort of friendships, both old and new.
Alejo loved his Abuelo. They did everything together and were the best of friends. They had so much fun that one little neighbor couldn’t help but notice and admire their strong bond. But one day, Abuelo wasn’t there anymore. He got too sick to come home. Nothing makes Alejo feel better; doing all of things he used to do with Abuelo just makes him feel more lonely. But, maybe, just maybe, one special little neighbor can help.
This collaboration from debut author David Corredor Benavides and award-winning picture book writer Nelly Buchet tells a heartwarming story of beautiful friendships, of grieving and coping with the loss of a loved one, and supporting one another through gentle acts of kindness. Alejo’s story was inspired by Corredor Benavides’ unforgettable adventures with his own grandfather, as well as Buchet’s admiration of such a magical relationship.
THIS ART IS FOR THE BIRDS
Spring 2023
Story and Art by Susan Bednarski
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S SITE:
Can four determined pigeons get their friend’s artwork into a museum? Never underestimate the power of persistence and pigeonuity.
Alex the Crow is an artist, and his pigeon friends think his work belongs in the museum. But how will they get it there? With persistence and pigeonuity, the four friends hatch a plan to help their friend achieve his dream. The New York art world will never be the same!
With gorgeous traditional watercolor illustrations, debut author-illustrator Susan Bednarski crafts a story celebrating the joy of art. The innocent enthusiasm of the characters adds charm as they creatively problem solve and believe that anything is possible. Readers can spot famous artworks and landmarks as the pigeons pursue their bird-brained schemes to share Alex’s art with the world. This picture book is both a great story time read aloud and also a useful tool for teaching growth mindset in a classroom or library setting.
