Books by Elisa Kleven

Lizzy loves the big apple tree in her yard more than anything. So when the first day of school comes, she picks a beautiful apple, turns it into a makeshift doll she names Susanna, and takes it along to keep her company. But her teacher tells her that dolls aren't allowed at school. Even worse, her sister says that Susanna won't last forever. Then Lizzy's mom shows her a way to turn Susanna into a real apple doll. And with the help of Susanna the Apple Doll, Lizzy overcomes her shyness at school and makes plenty of new friends to bring home to play in her beloved apple tree. Detailed, delightful collage illustrations accompany this sweet story about one girl's success in bringing together her home world and her school world. Instructions for making an apple doll just like Susanna are included!

From an author whose work is said to “burgeon with joy,” here is a gentle mystery about a silent, gallant lion and a sweetly cheerful bird—two friends who are attracted to each other through the universal language of art. Elisa uses watercolor, gouache, ink, colored pencils, pastels, markers, and crayons to collage this charming and colorful tale. “Illustrated with mixed-media collages so richly colored and textured that readers will want to feel the pages.”—Kirkus Reviews (pointered review) “A sweet and captivating book with gorgeous illustrations. Its story line and artwork both have unusual and unexpected qualities that work together to generate a magical, light mood.”—School Library Journal (starred review) ABA-CBC Children’s Books Mean Business and Kansas State Reading Circle

“The best book yet from this talented author/illustrator, and one that children will love.” — School Library Journal, starred review “Consistently beautiful.” — The New York Times A deluxe reissue of a classic picture book about creativity, courage, and imagination, perfect for children who love art, storytelling, and meaningful adventures. A gust of wind sends a handmade paper princess flying. “Wait! I didn’t finish you,” cries the little girl who made her. “I’ll finish myself,” calls the princess as the wind carries her away—over a meadow and river, to a carnival and a playground, and finally back home. This beloved picture book by Elisa Kleven follows one small paper princess on a vibrant, imaginative journey of self-discovery. Told with lyrical simplicity and illustrated in Kleven’s signature mixed-media collage, the story celebrates creativity, resilience, and belonging as the princess learns to find her own way in the world. Here’s what makes The Paper Princess a timeless treasure: • A Beloved Classic Returns: Back in print after years of reader demand, Elisa Kleven’s cherished story continues to inspire a new generation of children. • A Princess Unlike Any Other: This imaginative heroine doesn’t rely on castles or crowns. She discovers her strength through creativity, curiosity, and determination. • Stunning Mixed-Media Artwork: Elisa Kleven’s signature collage illustrations create vibrant miniature worlds filled with texture, color, and playful detail. • A Story About Courage and Belonging: Through her journey, the princess learns that confidence and character grow from within. • A Deluxe Gift Edition: Featuring foil stamping and sculptural embossing, this edition makes a beautiful keepsake for families and classrooms. The Paper Princess is a beautiful picture book about imagination, creativity, and finding your way, perfect for young readers, classrooms, and anyone who believes in the power of art and storytelling.