A WAY WITH WILD THINGS

Illustrated by Sara Palacios 

 

Published by Bloomsbury

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Also available in French and UK editions.

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Poppy loves nature, and can be found carrying on conversations with ladybugs or singing with cicadas, but good luck spotting her indoors and around people! She's a master of camouflage, always finding a way to blend into her surroundings. Some might call her a wallflower.

At a party, Poppy stays out of sight. But when a very special bug lands on the cake, Poppy can't resist popping out to see it. Soon, the rest of the guests notice the beautiful dragonfly, and Poppy, too. Maybe she's not a wallflower after all, but a wildflower.

This poetic and evocative story celebrates the shy and introverted kids among us, as well as the other small creatures to be found if we look closely enough.

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ALA Notable Children's Book

Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Books 

 

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★ “Theule's gentle storytelling reveals that what others may consider weaknesses, like Poppy's quiet and keen observation, may actually be our greatest strengths. Palacios' cheery illustrations are bright and playful but softly textured, a perfect match for our protagonist's bright-eyed yet introverted curiosity.” ―Kirkus Reviews, starred review 

 

★ “Palacios echoes the tenderness of the narration with a palette reminiscent of old-fashioned botanical prints.” ―Publishers Weekly, starred review

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