A 2025 Notable Social Studies Trade Book For Young People
"This needed story celebrates individuality and is a reminder that every child moves at their own their own pace, and that it’s okay to find happiness in solitude. Heartwarming and thought-provoking, this book encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities and appreciate the diversity of the world around them. VERDICT A valuable addition to any library or classroom collection." —School Library Journal
"Casting America as both the new kid at school and this story’s narrator, McKinnon and Phuong roll out a historical welcome wagon. In Phuong’s cool-hued, portrait-forward images, characters emerge from books to encourage the protagonist." —Publishers Weekly
Bob McKinnon lives in a village north of New York City with his wife, three daughters, and dog—who makes him feel very welcome every time he steps through the door. He is the author of the New York Times best seller Three Little Engines a modern retelling of the classic The Little Engine That Could story. Bob writes and teaches about issues related to the American dream and directs an organization whose mission is to inspire people to reflect on who and what has contributed to where they end up in life. Learn more about his work and his own American dream story at www.movingupusa.com.
Thai My Phuong is a Vietnamese illustrator who graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. She has a deep passion for visual storytelling and teaching for international publishers, magazines, brands, and universities. Phuong currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband.
View titles by Bob McKinnon
A 2025 Notable Social Studies Trade Book For Young People
"This needed story celebrates individuality and is a reminder that every child moves at their own their own pace, and that it’s okay to find happiness in solitude. Heartwarming and thought-provoking, this book encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities and appreciate the diversity of the world around them. VERDICT A valuable addition to any library or classroom collection." —School Library Journal
"Casting America as both the new kid at school and this story’s narrator, McKinnon and Phuong roll out a historical welcome wagon. In Phuong’s cool-hued, portrait-forward images, characters emerge from books to encourage the protagonist." —Publishers Weekly
Bob McKinnon lives in a village north of New York City with his wife, three daughters, and dog—who makes him feel very welcome every time he steps through the door. He is the author of the New York Times best seller Three Little Engines a modern retelling of the classic The Little Engine That Could story. Bob writes and teaches about issues related to the American dream and directs an organization whose mission is to inspire people to reflect on who and what has contributed to where they end up in life. Learn more about his work and his own American dream story at www.movingupusa.com.
Thai My Phuong is a Vietnamese illustrator who graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. She has a deep passion for visual storytelling and teaching for international publishers, magazines, brands, and universities. Phuong currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband.
View titles by Bob McKinnon
