She was a perfect baby, and she had a perfect name. Chrysanthemum. When she was old enough to appreciate it, Chrysanthemum loved her name. And then she started school. “I’m named after my grandmother,” said Victoria. “You’re named after a flower.” Chrysanthemum wilted. Life at school didn’t improve. In fact, it got worse. Then the students were introduced to their music teacher, Mrs. Twinkle. Mrs. Delphinium Twinkle. And suddenly, Chrysanthemum blossomed….
<p>Kevin Henkes is an award-winning author and illustrator of many books for children of all ages. He received the Caldecott Medal for <em>Kitten’s First Full Moon</em>; Caldecott Honors for <em>Waiting</em> and <em>Owen</em>; two Newbery Honors–one for <em>Olive’s Ocean</em> and one for <em>The Year of Billy Miller</em>–and Geisel Honors for <em>Waiting</em> and <em>Penny and Her Marble</em>. His other books include <em>Egg, </em> <em>Old Bear, A Good Day, Chrysanthemum</em>, and the beloved <em>Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse</em>. Kevin Henkes lives with his family in Madison, Wisconsin. www.kevinhenkes.com</p>