Book cover for Shrinking Violet by Laurel Snyder

Shrinking Violet

2026 Released
56 Pages
0-1 Hours
Audiobook Unavailable
Paperback Unavailable
Chronicle Books LLCISBN 9781797200811

"Simply gorgeous in every way." —Shannon Hale, New York Times bestselling author

An inspiring modern fairy tale about a brave girl who shrinks and grows depending on how she feels, showing how all of us—no matter our size—are so much bigger than our fears. From Theodor Seuss Geisel Award-winning author Laurel Snyder and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator LeUyen Pham.

Violet knows what it’s like to be afraid: when you’re afraid, you feel helpless and small. But when Violet is afraid, she doesn’t just feel small—she actually shrinks! It’s tough to stop feeling frightened when you’re only a few centimeters tall. But when Violet’s best friend is in danger, she’ll have to learn to deal with her fear in a new way—and save the day in the process.

Shrinking Violet is a beautifully illustrated story about fear and bravery for anyone who has ever felt scared and small. Readers will root for Violet as she finds her voice, stands up for her friend, and, most importantly, discovers the tremendous power of her own inner strength.

BIG FEELINGS: Feeling small and afraid is a universally relatable experience. The shrinking metaphor at the core of Violet’s story will resonate deeply with young readers and demonstrate that being (or feeling!) small isn’t a weakness—it’s normal and completely okay.

EMPOWERING HEROINE: Violet is a strong female character who solves her own problems by learning to control and ultimately accept her feelings. Her story will feel familiar and wonderfully relatable to kids, and Violet is a positive role model in whom all young readers (especially girls!) can see themselves represented.

ALL-STAR CREATORS: Author Laurel Snyder, Theodor Seuss Geisel Award winner, and illustrator LeUyen Pham, Caldecott Honoree, are children’s literature superstars with many bestsellers to their names. They're also real-life friends! This is the first project they've collaborated on, and they've combined their all-star talent to make a truly special story.

Perfect for:

  • Young readers experiencing worry or anxiety about scary things happening around them or in the world
  • Parents and caregivers looking for books that will help assure kids that it's okay to be afraid sometimes
  • Readers seeking stories that have a classic fairy tale feel
  • Gift-givers seeking a beautifully illustrated and deeply moving story

Laurel Snyder

Laurel Snyder is the author of many picture books and novels for children, including National Book Award nominee Orphan Island, the Geisel Award winner Charlie & Mouse, the Sydney Taylor Award winner The Longest Night, and the National Jewish Book Award honoree The Witch of Woodland. A graduate of the Iowa Writers' Workshop, she lives in Atlanta with her family. She can be found online at laurelsnyder.com.

More by Laurel Snyder

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