Author & Illustrator Profile
David Wisniewski
13 Books
David Wisniewski was an author and illustrator known for his dramatic picture books created with intricate cut-paper art. His books draw on folklore, historical legends, and gripping adventures to captivate young readers. He received the Caldecott Medal for his visual storytelling in Golem. Beyond his adaptations of traditional tales, he created lively original stories such as Sumo Mouse and The Secret Knowledge of Grown-ups. His unique artistic style and engaging narratives continue to stand out on children's bookshelves.
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The truth has been hidden for centuries, but the time of mystery is finally over. Prepare yourself to open the top secret files that reveal the bizarre, hilarious, and completely real reasons why grown ups tell you what to do. Have you ever wondered why they actually want you to eat your vegetables, comb your hair, or avoid blowing bubbles in your milk? It has nothing to do with vitamins or good manners. Follow a fearless counterspy who disguises himself as everything from a giant nose to a chocolate milk scuba diver to uncover the shocking evidence. You will encounter startling emergencies, dangerous gangs, and secrets so weird they will blow your mind. Read this highly confidential report carefully, but whatever you do, do not let your parents catch you reading it.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
Feline crime has hit the bustling streets of Tokyo, and the city needs a hero. Enter Sumo Mouse, a champion of justice who is not your average lean and mean crime fighter. He is round, profound, and completely ready to wrestle any wrongdoer who gets in his way. When the sinister Doctor Claw launches a villainous scheme to take over the city, the cats think they have finally won the eternal battle. But they have not counted on the incredible power of a sumo wrestling rodent. Through action packed, comic book inspired collage art, you will cheer on this chubby superhero as he stomps, pushes, and throws the bad guys out of town. Will the villain pin our hero to the mat, or can Sumo Mouse smash the evil plans and save the day?
6-8 Years
26 Pages
Eight hundred years ago in the great trading empire of Mali, a young boy named Sundiata faces challenges that seem impossible to beat. Unable to speak or walk, he endures social disgrace and the cruel plots of a rival queen who forces him into exile. But Sundiata possesses the heart of a lion. Through sheer courage and determination, he struggles to overcome his physical obstacles and grow into a powerful leader. When his homeland is violently overrun by intruders, the eighteen year old warrior must return to defeat dark sorcery, reclaim his rightful throne, and protect his people. Beautifully illuminated by intricate cut paper illustrations based on traditional African motifs, this incredible historical legend brings a majestic kingdom to life. You will witness the inspiring rise of a boy who refused to be defeated.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
The majestic Pacific Northwest is home to ancient forests, deep waters, and powerful spirits. When a young Tlingit princess named Kchokeen faces a terrible accident and nearly drowns, she is miraculously rescued by a mysterious guardian spirit of the ocean. This spirit gives her an extraordinary gift and a vital connection to the natural world. Soon, her peaceful community is threatened by the arrival of hostile strangers who want to exploit their land. Relying on her new bond with the ocean, Kchokeen must find the courage to summon a massive wave and protect her people from destruction. Featuring magnificent cut paper artwork filled with traditional Native American motifs, this original tale immerses you in a rich culture and a thrilling rescue. Will the sea answer her call in time?
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
An ancient and evil curse has been cast upon Elfwyns family, and because of it, she is born completely blind. But Elfwyn refuses to let the darkness define her. Growing up in a world rich with Viking lore and magic, she discovers that she has a unique destiny to fulfill. When she learns of the mysterious Hidden Folk, she realizes they might be the key to breaking the dark magic that holds her family captive. Armed with incredible bravery and a sharp mind, Elfwyn sets out on a legendary quest to face down the wicked enemies of her people. Brought to life through majestic cut paper illustrations, this powerful saga takes you on a sweeping journey into the icy north. You will witness how true vision comes from within. Can Elfwyn break the curse and restore the light?
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Meet Tough Cookie, a hardened private eye living at the bottom of the cookie jar. In his prime on the police force, he busted the Ginger Snaps and crumbled the Macaroons. Now, he faces his crunchiest case yet: Fingers has snatched his old partner, Chips. Teaming up with his best girl, Pecan Sandy, Tough Cookie hits the crumbs and sets out to stop Fingers before it is too late. This hilarious spoof brings classic detective mysteries to the kitchen, packed with sweet puns and nonstop action. You will follow a chewy champion of justice who refuses to crumble under pressure. Can Tough Cookie solve the case and put Fingers away for keeps, or is this the way the cookie finally crumbles?
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
42 Pages
The emperor of Japan faces a difficult choice: which of his twin sons should rule the kingdom next? To decide, he sets an almost impossible task. The brothers must journey far and wide to capture the five eternal elements guarded by fearsome demons. Tozaemon, the fierce warrior, brings his mighty weapons and unmatched bravery to the fight. Toemon, the quiet wise man, relies on his careful thought and deep knowledge. As you follow their dangerous quest, you will see how each brother tackles terrifying challenges in completely different ways. Winning the elements is only half the battle, because true leadership requires knowing how to use them. Through brilliant cut paper artwork and a gripping adventure, this original tale tests the limits of strength and intellect. Who will prove worthy to take the throne?
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Danger surrounds the Jewish people of sixteenth century Prague, and they desperately need a protector. In secret, a saintly rabbi gathers earth and uses his powerful knowledge to miraculously bring a massive clay giant to life. This is the Golem, a towering force of incredible strength designed to watch over the community and defend them from terrible harm. As you step into this dramatic historical legend, you will witness the awesome power of the giant as he patrols the shadowy streets. But bringing a creature of clay to life carries heavy responsibilities, and even the best intentions can lead to unexpected consequences. Featuring stunning cut paper illustrations, this powerful story pulls you into a world of magic, courage, and history. Can the Golem keep the people safe without losing control?
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Get ready to shriek with absolute laughter. Within these pages lurk five hilarious horror spoofs just waiting to tickle your funny bone. You will face the shaggy shenanigans of Frankensteins Hamster, survive the howling madness of Curse of the Werewuss, and endure the galactic giggles of Attack of the Space Toupees. This collection takes all the classic scary movies you know and twists them into wild, laugh out loud adventures perfect for young readers who like their frights mixed with a heavy dose of comedy. Grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and let the wild scenes unfold. Every single story bubbles with weird monsters, goofy heroes, and ridiculously spooky fun. Do you have the courage to face the silliest monsters in town?
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
82 Pages
When a fierce ocean storm crashes into a massive cargo ship, a giant crate filled with bathtub toys tumbles into the churning waves. Suddenly, one small yellow plastic duck finds himself bobbing all alone in the middle of the vast sea.
Far away from the safe, warm bathtub he was meant for, Ducky must brave towering waves, passing sharks, and lonely nights beneath the stars. But this brave little toy refuses to give up hope. Based on an amazing true story of toys lost at sea, this incredible journey follows Ducky as he rides the ocean currents, waiting for the day he can finally wash ashore and find a home.
Featuring spectacular cut-paper artwork, this thrilling tale shows that even the smallest explorer can survive the biggest adventures.
6-8 Years
37 Pages
Have you ever wondered what's inside a toolbox? Get ready to explore the exciting world of workshops and the amazing tools that help us build and fix things! This book is packed with rhyming words and colorful pictures that show you all about hammers, screwdrivers, saws, and more. You'll learn what each tool is for, how it helps create cool projects, and why they're so important. Discover the secrets of a busy workshop, from measuring and cutting to joining and tightening. It's a fun way to learn about the helpful tools we use every day!
6-8 Years
37 Pages
Shadusa is incredibly strong, and he wants everyone to know it. When he gathers firewood, he hauls twice as much as anyone else in his Nigerian village. When he hunts, he carries home two antelopes at once. His muscles are so massive that he decides to call himself Master Man, believing he is the strongest person in the entire world. His wife warns him to stop his foolish boasting, reminding him that no matter how mighty you are, there is always someone stronger. But Shadusa refuses to listen and sets out to prove his absolute power. This traditional Hausa superhero tale brings roaring action and sharp humor together, exploring the mythical origins of thunder. You will journey alongside a boastful warrior as he gets a tough lesson in humility. Will Shadusa finally meet his match?
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
A terrible drought threatens your village, and the village priest insists that fate cannot be changed. But Pik, a brave young Maya ballplayer, refuses to watch his people suffer. To save his home, he does the unthinkable: he challenges the powerful Rain God to a high stakes game of pok-a-tok. This is a fierce and dangerous sport played with a heavy rubber ball, and Pik must use all his skill, courage, and cunning to outmaneuver a divine opponent. Accompanied by spectacular, intricate cut paper artwork that brings ancient Maya architecture and culture vividly to life, this original tale plunges you into a thrilling contest where the ultimate prize is rain. If Pik loses, the drought will destroy everything he loves. Does a single boy have what it takes to defy fate, defeat a god, and bring life giving water back to the thirsty land?
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages