Think Smart, Be Fearless

by Sharon Mentyka

Published 15 October 2019
How do fearless ideas begin? Travel along with young Bill Gates on his life's journey full of curiosity, discovery, hard work, and most important, fearlessness--the inability to see limits. The book invites young readers to pursue their passions and awaken a sense of ambition and responsibility for others as they grow.

Think Smart, Be Fearless tells the inspiring story of Bill Gates, one of America's most fascinating entrepreneurs, starting from his early years as a precocious, inquisitive child who faced challenges fitting in with his classmates. Young Bill, known as Trey in his family, was a bit of a troublemaker, bored at school and prone to acting out. That all changed in high school with his discovery of the early world of computers. His instincts immediately told him that computers were the future. With the support of his family, who encouraged him to think smart and be fearless, Bill grew to become a technology visionary, who changed the way everyday people interact with computers, and a philanthropist whose inability to see limits is working to reduce poverty and improve global health worldwide.

Complete with back matter that includes a more in-depth look into Bill Gates's life, a timeline of significant events in his life and in computer science, and a glossary for inquisitive kids.

The Heart of the Storm

by Sharon Mentyka

Published 1 March 2022
"With dynamic illustrations and text full of can-do attitude, this exuberant picture book is a celebration of the hard work and practice it takes to become a top-tier athlete."
A Mighty Girl

“[Sue Bird] is the W.N.B.A,” said Crystal Langhorne, who converted 161 of Bird’s passes into buckets. This picture book biography of Sue Bird follows her journey from an energetic yet shy young girl to one of the most versatile and inspirational athletes of our time and a leader whose legacy extends off the court.

As a little girl, Sue Bird couldn't stop moving. As soon as she could walk, she ran, jumped, or climbed instead. Sue love all kinds of sports as a child, but the rhythm, energy, and grace of basketball quickly won her heart. The Heart of the Storm follows Sue Bird's journey from her childhood, full of energy and determination, to becoming one of the most versatile, inspirational athletes of all time and a leader on and off the court.

From her championship high school team to two NCAA titles with the UConn Huskies to four WNBA championships with the Seattle Storm and five Olympic gold medals, Sue Bird's grit, authenticity, and heart fuel her growing into greatness and accomplishing her dreams.

"An in-depth look at a modern sports role model, perfect for sports fans' shelves."
School Library Journal

A Flash of Color and Light

by Sharon Mentyka

Published 15 October 2024
The first-ever picture book biography of world-renowned glassmaker Dale Chihuly—with stunning watercolor illustrations that reveal the history of the art—for aspiring artists ages 5-9.

Travel along with Dale Chihuly on his life’s journey full of curiosity, discovery, teamwork, and perseverance as he overcomes challenges to become a glass artist of international acclaim.

Dale Chihuly’s early life presented many challenges, such as tragic losses in his family at a young age and an accident that left him blind in one eye, yet his resilience, hard work, and optimism taught him life-long skills that became inseparable from his body of work—incomparable glass creations that provide rich material for the book’s gorgeous illustrations.

In addition to the narrative story, curious readers will enjoy additional reading material which includes: 

  • Additional biographical information about Dale Chihuly
  • Brief history of the evolution of glassmaking 
  • A timeline of Dale Chihuly's life
  • A glossary