A Way With Wild Things

A Way With Wild Things is a gentle, poetic story about noticing nature, finding belonging, and honoring quiet ways of being.

Meet Poppy—if you can spot her among the wildflowers. She feels most at home outdoors, chatting with ladybugs and singing with cicadas. Indoors and around crowds, though, Poppy prefers to blend into the background, camouflaging herself like the small creatures she loves. Some might call her a wallflower.

But when a beautiful dragonfly lands on a birthday cake, Poppy can’t help but step forward—and in that moment, both the dragonfly and Poppy are finally seen. Maybe she isn’t a wallflower after all, but a wildflower.

This evocative story celebrates introverted and sensitive children, curiosity about small creatures, and the magic that appears when we slow down and look closely at the world around us.

Why we love it

• Affirms quiet, observant, and introverted kids
• Encourages noticing insects and small wonders in nature
• Poetic language paired with expressive illustrations
• A gentle reminder that there are many ways to belong

Great for

• Preschool and early elementary readers
• Sensitive and nature-loving children
• Families and classrooms exploring emotional awareness
• Thoughtful, meaningful gifts