Wallflowers

The cover of a children's book titled 'Wallflowers' by Mackenzie Joy, featuring three children with different skin tones surrounded by colorful wallflower illustrations.

Story & Artwork by: Mackenzie Joy

People call you a wallflower. Sometimes they call you shy. Sometimes they call you quiet, or maybe even scared. People think these are bad things, because sometimes they are LOUD. But you are happy just the way you are. And maybe you don’t need to learn to be loud, they just need to learn to listen.

Mackenzie Joy beautifully pairs her gorgeous illustrations with minimalist text in this heartwarming book that doesn’t just acknowledge shy children, but celebrates them—because every wallflower deserves their chance to grow. 

Published by: Clarion Books

“Just right, respectful and reassuring, for both the always and the sometimes quiet.” Starred Review from Kirkus Reviews

“In simplistic, inspirational verbiage that speaks directly to so-called “wallflowers,” Joy affirms those who “love watching and listening” and finding “a quiet spot where you can be you.” Publishers Weekly

Activities

Black and white wallpaper pattern featuring various flowers, leaves, and small character with curly hair and a smiling face. The pattern includes clusters of blooms and foliage, with a zipper at the bottom, and the text "wallflowers by mackenzie joy" in the lower right corner.
A line drawing of a baby standing next to a blank picture frame with the text 'if you were a wallflower, what would your wallpaper be and how would you bloom? Draw and color!'. The top right corner has a logo with the words 'MAK TEA' and an illustration of a teapot and teacup.
A coloring activity sheet featuring a child's outline standing beside a blank picture frame. The sheet asks, 'if you were a wallflower, what would your wallpaper be and how would you bloom? Draw and color!' The top right has a logo with 'MAK TEA' and an image of a soap bubble. The bottom right displays the word 'wallflowers' and the author's name, Mackenzie Joy.