"An enchanting story about the beauty of birdsong, and one boy's discovery of the magical, mindful moments that can be found in nature." --
Tessa Strickland Book order
Tessa Strickland, writing as Stella Blackstone, is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of the independent children's publisher Barefoot Books. She is the author of numerous bestselling picture books for young readers. Her editorial work has involved collaboration with authors and illustrators globally, contributing significantly to the landscape of children's literature.






- 2023
- 2022
Explore harvest festivals from around the globe! Nine pages of rich, educational endnotes dive deep with more information about the 12 cultures explored in the book and invite young readers to ask questions about food and the labour that produces it.
- 2022
Delightful illustrations and clear step-by-step instructions take little ones through a series of simple yoga poses. Happy Tiger playfully invites young children to pretend to be a tiger, moving their feline bodies into specific yoga poses known for increasing feelings of happiness.
- 2022
Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions take little ones through a grounding series of basic yoga poses. Simple, descriptive language invites young children to pretend to be a bear, moving their furry bodies into specific yoga poses designed to both energize and inspire bravery.
- 2021
Rhyming text and detailed illustrations make the book accessible to younger readers, while educational endnotes about the 13 celebrations add interest for older children. Gold ink and festive illustrations capture the joy of the season and make this book a beautiful gift. Engaging and informative for anyone who wants to learn about the holiday.
- 2021
Yoga Tots: Calm Bunny
- 16 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Charming illustrations and step-by-step instructions take little ones through a soothing series of basic yoga poses. Simple, descriptive language invites young children to pretend to be a bunny and then a snake, moving their bodies into specific yoga poses inspired by these creatures.
- 2021
Charming illustrations and step-by-step instructions take little ones through a simple sun salutation. Playful, descriptive language invites young children to pretend to be a puppy, moving their doggie bodies into specific yoga poses.
- 2020
A Rainbow of Rocks
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
A rainbow of rocks -- from red to violet and beyond! Eye-popping close-up photos of real, vibrant rocks and minerals in a rainbow of colors are brought to life by lyrical, rhyming text about the many facets of geology. Includes educational notes perfect for STEM learning.
- 2020
The Bread Pet
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Cora promises to keep Uncle JB's Bread Pet alive but didn't anticipate its exponential growth! She needs to come up with a solution -- and fast! This whimsical STEM story of family, creativity and community will inspire young makers to experiment and share their gifts with others. Includes sourdough starter and sourdough bread recipes.
- 2019
Let's Celebrate!
- 40 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Lyrical, sensory nonfiction text and vibrant illustrations invite readers to experience a child's-eye view of 13 special days around the world, such as the Spring Festival, Inti Raymi, Eid al-Fitr, Dia de Muertos and the New Yam Festival. Includes a global festival calendar and educational notes about why we celebrate.