About the Book

Papa Loon’s call rings out across the water—Ooo! Aaa! Woo woo! But Little Loon’s voice is much smaller. Peep! Eep! Squeak! As he grows, Little Loon tries again and again to find his own sound.

Adapted for the youngest readers, Little Loon Finds His Voice introduces babies and toddlers to loons, lake habitats, animal sounds, and the natural world through a tender story of growth and discovery. Rhythmic language and expressive calls make it a warm, engaging read-aloud for families, classrooms, and storytime.

This sturdy board book edition brings the award-winning picture book to little hands, with full-color illustrations of misty lakes, northern wildlife, and one small loon learning to call out in his own way.

Here's what makes Little Loon Finds His Voice a meaningful early read:

  • Animal sounds for babies and toddlers: Expressive loon calls and rhythmic text support early language, listening, and read-aloud engagement.
  • An early nature learning read: Introduces young children to loons, lake animals, wildlife, and the wonder of the natural world.
  • A reassuring growth-and-confidence theme: Little Loon’s journey helps children connect with courage, patience, and self-expression.
  • Durable board book format: Designed for little hands, repeated readings, baby gifts, toddler shelves, and nature-loving families.
  • Award-winning origin: Adapted from a Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year STEM Selection and PubWest Book Design Award winner.

Little Loon Finds His Voice is a nature board book and animal sounds book for babies and toddlers—perfect for families looking for a warm read-aloud about wildlife, confidence, and finding your voice.

Meet the Author

Yvonne Pearson’s debut picture book, Sadie Braves the Wilderness, was published in May 2017. In 2018 she won the Loft-McKnight Fellowship in writing for children. Yvonne has been selected for the Loft Center for Literature’s Shabo Award for a picture book and won two Artist Initiative Grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board for children’s literature projects. Yvonne lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her husband. She loves hiking, reading, quilting, cooking and spending quality time with her grandchildren.

Meet the Illustrator

R.A. Smith is an illustrator and graphic designer based in Sonoma County, California. Her illustration work includes the picture books Fun in the Mud, Little Loon Finds His Voice, Our Friend Moon, and Our Friend Earth. She has also illustrated adult nonfiction titles including Embrace the Work, Love Your Career, Balance Is Bullsh*t, Reflect and Reset, and Simple Acts of Care. Regina is passionate about bringing stories to life through pictures and thoughtful design. Her work is rooted in traditional drawing and painting, combined with vector graphics. She collaborates with local entrepreneurs and authors, as well as independent publishers.

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