Here's to the Silly OnesMedia Kit-
Here’s to the Silly Ones is a celebration of those who live life to its silliest – a sweet, lyrical ode to the carefree joy of childhood.
3-6 years, Preschool to Grade 1
8 1⁄2” x 8 1⁄2”, 32 pages
ISBN: US$21.99 JUV070000 Poetry JUV002180
/ Mice, Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, etc. JUV019000 JUVENILE FICTION / Humorous Stories
Pub. Date: August 18, 2026 -
About the illustrator: Valerie loves to draw anything that involves an ink or pencil line. She has illustrated for Yolimwon Publishing (Korea), Paseka Publishing (Czech Republic), Loyola University Press, Chicago Magazine, and True South Puzzle Company. She currently lives in Tennessee with her husband in a very old (and needy) house with two very large (and messy) magnolia trees. Her secret obsession is ancient history and Herodotus.
https://vhamill.com/
https://www.instagram.com/valerie_hamill_illustrations/ -
“Delightful! A whimsical, uplifting book paired with exquisite illustrations that encourage little ones to engage. The thick glossy paper and sturdy cover are icing on the cake. A perfect read aloud gift for baby showers or birthdays.” - Elizabeth Wilder, WA
“This adorable book celebrates the vital need to play, no matter your age. Parents and children alike will love the message and laugh at the antics of these mice and their olives!” - Leah Marshall, MA
“This book is definitely going to be a go to gift for children in my life! What a wonderful message to children!” - Amy Ryan, OK
“So re-readable! This is a sweet, encouraging celebration of playfulness and imagination, with sharp rhyme and fun illustrations. I can see this as both a lap read and an interactive one, as well as an inspirational uplift for adults!” - Stephanie Jones, WA
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The inspiration for Here’s to the Silly Ones was twofold. First, it’s a description of my daughter. There’s something really special about seeing a kid skip in a context that absolutely does not call for it, or the over-the-top joy they get out of simple creation: baking, coloring, making up dance moves, etc. Witnessing these moments of joy led directly to some of the lines in the book, but it also goes a little deeper. Seeing that reminded me that I can also be silly and joyful. I like to say having a kid helped me rediscover my silly.
Second, it’s a parody of Apple’s famous Here’s to the Crazy Ones commercial, often cited as the best branding spot of all time by advertising creatives. From my perspective, I “fixed” it. Yes, being a little off-kilter helps, but the commercial is missing a key ingredient: the joy!
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