DESCRIPTION - America’s Dreaming, 2024

From New York Times bestselling author Bob McKinnon comes a story about seeking inspiration from our past to become our best selves in the future.

Have you ever felt alone? Have you ever desperately wanted to fit in? America understands how you feel.

America dreams of adventures, making new friends, and being strong. But America's first day at a new school turns out to be a nightmare.

Fortunately, America's new teacher introduces the Welcome Wagon--a cart filled with books about real-life historical figures who also had trouble feeling accepted. When America falls asleep that night, Amelia Earhart, Sojourner Truth, Martin Luther King Jr., and Emma Lazarus jump off the pages to share their stories--inspiring America to return to school the next day and make their dreams come true.

While we never see America, Bob McKinnon's lyrical writing and Thai My Phuong's unique, sweeping art helps readers see the world through America's eyes and encourages us all to be as kind as we are brave, because everyone always deserves to feel welcome.

DESCRIPTION - America Gives Thanks, 2025

In this stand-alone companion to America’s Dreaming, New York Times bestselling author Bob McKinnon and celebrated illustrator Thai My Phuong craft a beautiful, sweeping story about the importance of speaking up for what really matters.

Have you ever wondered why people complain so much?

America is very excited for their class’s upcoming field trip to Washington, DC. But when the other kids start complaining about how not excited they are, America is confused. Their teacher, Mr. Downs, uses this as a learning opportunity: sometimes complaining—when done right—can actually be useful.

As the class walks through historic halls like the Supreme Court and around the National Mall where they visit celebrated monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, historical figures come alive for America (that portrait of Ruth Bader Ginsburg is definitely winking). Each figure offers tales on how complaining can lead to long-lasting change and hope for a better world. For that, America is so thankful.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bob McKinnon lives in a village north of New York City with his wife, three daughters, and dog--who makes him feel very welcome every time he steps through the door. He is the author of the New York Times best seller Three Little Engines a modern retelling of the classic The Little Engine That Could story. Bob writes and teaches about issues related to the American dream and directs an organization whose mission is to inspire people to reflect on who and what has contributed to where they end up in life. Learn more about his work and his own American dream story at www.movingupusa.com.

Thai My Phuong is a Vietnamese illustrator who graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. She has a deep passion for visual storytelling and teaching for international publishers, magazines, brands, and universities. Phuong currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband.