WHEN YOU DREAM BIG! by Peter H. Reynolds, Orchard Books, March 3, 2026, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-8)
A girl learns how to follow her heart in When You Dream Big! a new picture book by Peter H. Reynolds.
She glanced down… her ten toes reminded her to keep moving in the right direction: forward. Always forward.
It’s Dream Big Week at school! Everyone is excited to share their dreams for the future — except Charley. She has no idea what she wants for her future. But on her walk home, Charley learns that even if she doesn’t know exactly what she wants to be when she grows up, she knows what KIND of person she wants to be. —Synopsis provided by Orchard Books
Peter H. Reynolds is known for his picture books that celebrate social and emotional awareness, In When You Dream Big! he flips the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” to “Who do you want to be when you grow up?”
It’s a subtle difference, but it forces a strong shift in thinking. Suddenly, goals seem more attainable and thoughts of the future are less daunting.
Reynolds captures this all with accessible text and stylized illustrations. Kids and adults alike will love this beautifully illustrated read that’s perfect for young readers and soon-to-be graduates.
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