A publicist sent me some information about an unusual children’s book that will appeal in a way to crafters since the images in the book are physically crafted by the author. The author/crafter is Rebbecca Dudley, and the title of the book Hank Finds an Egg. Here’s a trailer, and I’ve pasted the press release information below it.

HANK FINDS AN EGG BY REBECCA DUDLEY

“[a] rare picture-book pleasure: a wholly original take on storytelling.”

– Pamela Paul from The New York Times

(July 17, 2013) Peter Pauper Press, Inc. (www.peterpauper.com) kicks off its expansion into children’s literature with the charming, wordless picture bookHank Finds an Egg by Rebecca Dudley (June 2013, $16.99, Ages 3-8).

Dudley, an accomplished builder, photographer, and artist, weaves a heartwarming tale not with words, but with meticulously detailed dioramas, all designed, created, and photographed by her. When Hank walks in the woods and comes across an egg lying on the forest floor, he immediately gets to work trying to return the egg to its nest, getting increasingly more creative to accomplish the task. As the story unfolds, readers young and old will delight in the richness of detail in each picture—the shape of each leaf, the ripples on each tree trunk, the emotions displayed through Hank’s gentle and kind demeanor. Hank Finds an Egg is a wonderful tale that will inspire readers of all ages to believe in themselves and the goodness of others.

Mara Conlon, Senior Editor, explains, “It was love at first sight when we were introduced to the adorable character Hank, and we couldn’t be more excited that he’s launching our children’s picture book program.” And the launch is off to a strong start indeed, with Hank Finds an Egg having already received two starred reviews (Publishers Weekly and Booklist), as well as other numerous glowing reviews from The New York Times and School Library Journal.

Peter Pauper Press has two more picture books scheduled for Fall 2013 and four in the works for 2014. Conlon gives more details regarding the publisher’s commitment to children’s literature, “Children’s books can instill a sense of exploration, wonder, creativity, kindness, and self-confidence. All of our upcoming titles do exactly that—each in their own way. Through their inspiring work, the talented authors and illustrators that we have on our roster are creating books that provide a strong foundation from which young children can learn, grow, and flourish.”

Hank Finds an Egg will be available in stores nationwide as well as through online retail outlets.

About the author: Rebecca Dudley is a builder, creator, photographer, and artist. She makes everything that appears in her diorama illustrations—the trees, leaves, ponds, skies and the creatures themselves. She has a small architectural practice, and lives in Evanston, Illinois with her husband John, dog Josephine and her many magical Storywoods characters, Hank included. This is her debut children’s picture book. Please visit her blog at www.storywoods.blogspot.com for more Storywoods adventure featuring Hank and his friends.

About Peter Pauper Press: Founded in 1928, Peter Pauper Press is one of America’s leading publishers of fine gift books, humor books, compact references, travel guides, journals, quality stationery, holiday cards, and innovative children’s activity books. The company publishes approximately 100 books and ancillary products per year.