SAMANTHA THORNHILL is a poet, educator, and author of children's books, including
her most recent publication, A Card for My Father. Her work has been published in over
two dozen literary journals and anthologies. She has taught poetry to acting students at
the Juilliard School and creative writing seminars at the Bronx Academy of Letters. She
also facilitates workshops for the Dialogue Arts Project, which ventures into
professional settings and uses creative writing as a tool to navigate uncomfortable
discussions about social identity. Samantha is a native of the twin island nation of
Trinidad & Tobago and lives in Brooklyn, NY. You can learn more about her at
samanthaspeaks.com.

SHIRLEY NG—BENITEZ is a children's book illustrator who creates art using watercolor,
gouache, pencil, and digital techniques. She also loves to make 3—D creatures from clay
and fabric. She lives in the Bay Area of California with her husband, their two daughters,
and their pup. Please visit her website at shirleyngbenitez.com and follow her on social
media at @shirleysillos.

Key Selling Points

This book:
— Presents a new story in this popular early chapter book series with a diverse cast of
characters in relatable and realistic situations.
— Helps young readers navigate big feelings like sadness, anxiety, and disappointment.
— Tackles tough topics like a parent losing a job or closing a beloved business in an
approachable and kid—friendly manner.
— Includes an activity page that prompts readers to write about favorite places in their
neighborhood and what makes them special.

The Confetti Kids series:
— One of the few early chapter book series to feature characters of many backgrounds.
— Features approachable and realistic stories at just the right level for children who are
starting to read independently.
— Offers young readers "window and mirror" stories that expand their experiences while
also reflecting their own experiences.
— Each book contains three short chapters with familiar underlying themes: feeling out
of place, experiencing new things, social interaction, imagination, and making new
friends.
— Detailed, supportive illustrations; high—frequency words; and repeated phrases support
comprehension for emergent readers.
— Leveled for Emergent readers, grade 1, guided reading level I.