In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with sisters Beth and Kathleen Rooney to discuss their debut picture book, “Leaf Town Forever” – a remarkable story born from the unexpected creativity of children during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The book originated from a fascinating real-life scenario at a Montessori school, where children, required to stay socially distanced, invented an entire civilization using autumn leaves. This ingenious play became the inspiration for a unique picture book that captures the resilience and imagination of children during challenging times.
What makes “Leaf Town Forever” truly special is its innovative storytelling approach. The Rooney sisters chose to write the entire book in haiku, a poetic form consisting of just 17 syllables. This creative decision not only condensed their story but also beautifully captured the seasonal transitions experienced by the children in their narrative.
The collaborative process between Beth, a photojournalist, and Kathleen, an established author, was remarkably smooth. They described their writing method as a playful “volley” reminiscent of their high school badminton days, with each sister contributing and refining the text.
Their journey wasn’t without challenges. Working with illustrator Betsy Bowen required patience, with the entire process from manuscript to published book taking nearly two years. However, the result was a stunning visual representation of their story that brought tears to their eyes.
“Leaf Town Forever” is more than just a children’s book – it’s a testament to human creativity, adaptability, and the power of imaginative play. It shows how children can transform limitations into opportunities for connection and storytelling.
Parents and educators will find this book not just entertaining, but also a powerful conversation starter about community, resilience, and finding joy in unexpected places.
We also have a listen back to a conversation we had with Janice Milusich about her book Be Careful What Your Hear.
