Book excerpt: New York Times–bestselling author of The Dot: An inspiring picture book that “celebrates individuality, self-expression, and the joys of being a dreamer” (Publishers Weekly). While the world tells us to sit still, to follow the rules, and to color inside the lines, Happy Dreamer celebrates all those moments in between when the mind and spirit soar and we are free to become our own true dreamer maximus. In Peter Reynolds’ signature voice and style, this empowering picture book reminds children (of any age) of how much their dreams matter, and while life will have ups and downs, he enlists readers to stay true to who they are, to tap into their most creative inner selves, and to never ever forget to dream big! The creativity guru and creator of Be You!, The Word Collector, and other beloved titles inspires readers to find their own unique path to happy, and to always follow their dreams. “Delightful . . . Out-of-the-box thinkers will know they are not alone and all will be inspired to become unique ‘dreamers maximus.’” —School Library Connection