illustrated by Lisa Powell Braun

Written in lyrical prose with beautifully detailed illustrations, Wake, Sleepy One follows the California poppy’s incredible journey, from seed, to flower, to the rare super bloom.

"Gorgeous illustrations, that fill the page, show the desert habitat where the California Poppy blooms in the spring—if the conditions are right. […] An ode to a beautiful plant. This book could be wonderfully shared in a Botany class or used in a science unit for younger children. It seems like a must-have for schools and libraries in California. 5 Stars."
—Youth Services Book Review

"Two full spreads of stellar backmatter add to its usability in the classroom, and make this a perfect resource for learning about desert landscapes!"
—Goodreads with Ronna

"Packed with interesting information conveyed through whimsical writing. . . For young nature enthusiasts or browsers, [Wake, Sleepy One] is ideal narrative nonfiction."
—School Library Journal

"The use of onomatopoeia and personification liven up the description of the flower’s life. . . At the back of the book, readers will find a glossary, labeled diagram of the flower parts, additional information related to the poppy, locations to find poppies, and some resources."
—Children's Literature Comprehensive Database

Follow the golden poppy's journey as it slowly wakes inside its seed, stretches its roots, and unfolds its delicate petals. Watch as it transforms the land into an ocean of orange—the amazing "super bloom."

A lyrical ode to California's most treasured wildflower, Wake, Sleepy One gently captures the quiet strength of the poppy in all its breathtaking wonder.

Lisa Kerr

Wake, Sleepy One: California Poppies and the Super Bloom