A Monster of a Problem

The footprints are strange. The creature is stranger. But the truth is beautiful.

Something mysterious has arrived in Land Beyond. Giant three-toed footprints trail up from the pond, through the square, and into the hearts of every creature in the village. No one can figure out who, or what, left them behind. The sparrows whisper. The raccoons worry. The ducklings report strange waves near the shore of Lake Guess. Lopher the gopher is convinced a terrible monster has come to threaten them all. Before long, uncertainty has the whole town in a panic, ready to defend against something they have never even seen.

But while everyone else hears of threats from a frightening creature, a mindful turtle named Scoot notices something the others have missed: a breathtaking work of art left right in the middle of the forest. Delicate petals folded into waterlilies. Pink geese placed with gentle finesse upon a scene of the lake they all love. Whoever made these footprints left behind more than tracks. They left behind a gift. Now Scoot must find the shy, hidden artist before fear from uncertainty turns the whole town against a soul that just wants to give thanks with art.

Will the creatures of Land Beyond see a monster, or will they discover something far more wonderful hiding in plain sight? A Monster of a Problem is a whimsical, heartwarming picture book in rhyming verse that celebrates creativity, kindness, and the courage it takes to see through new eyes. Perfect for readers of all ages and for every child who has ever felt different.