A PEP TALK FOR THE GROWNUPS WHO SHOW UP

please share this with anybody you know who works with young people

Normally, this time of year would look a little different.

I’d be visiting classrooms. Speaking at conferences. Cheering on the grown-ups who cheer on young people.

This year, though? I have illustrations due for a new book. That’s exciting and all, but… I miss you!

So instead of being with you all in person, I made this:

It’s part pep talk … part resource … part reminder… all let’s do good stuff together.

A video packed with encouragement for anybody anywhere who cares about kids.

It’s about tiny big changes, a few vocab words I picked up while visiting schools, and why you are the secret to making this a better world for kids.

It’s the pep talk I would give to you if I could be right there with you.

If you’re a teacher, parent, librarian, or just someone who cares about the next generation: please watch and share.

Show it to your coworkers, your community, your dog…

anyone who needs a little spark today.

Plus: bonus pep from a few surprise guests:

I hope this can be a reminder that you’re not alone. You matter. There’s lots of good we can all do together. In fact, the world is already better just because you’re in it.

I made this because I couldn’t be in your school or community right now.

But maybe, with your help, it can still find its way there.

Let’s make some tiny big change together.

Please share this with anyone you know who works with children or cares about children!

1. Free classroom resources for all my books live at wondersparks.com.

2. SOCKTOBER is coming! Kids around the world are leading sock drives this fall and I need your help. This year, I’m inviting students to design new Socktober flyers anyone can use. One classroom with the winning designs will get a signed book bundle plus a virtual visit from my wife and I! (Info is in the video)

3. STORY CONFERENCE! One of my favorite events of the year. Join me in Nashville October 9-10. Tickets on sale now!

I am back! So grateful for this community. Have missed you! Thanks for being here.