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Where Do Stories Live?

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Hardcover
$18.99 US
8.75"W x 11.25"H x 0.4"D   | 15 oz | 24 per carton
On sale May 05, 2026 | 40 Pages | 9798217003198
Age 4-8 years | Preschool - 3

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In this charming and meditative story by author-illustrator Meenal Patel, a young girl embarks on a journey to discover the stories all around her.

When Avni receives a journal as a gift, she questions what is worth putting on its blank pages. Through observation, contemplation, and adventure as they walk to their aunt's house, Avni and her younger sister Isha discover the magic of storytelling hiding in butterfly wings, homemade meals, and shared laughter.

This sweet picture book aims to encourage children to recognize and treasure the stories that make up their own lives.
Praise for Where Do Stories Live? by Meenal Patel:

★ “A warm, beautifully illustrated picture book that guides young readers to discover that stories are everywhere: around us, within us, and woven through our cultures and families.” —School Library Journal, starred review

“Sure to spur wonder and contemplation—and to inspire young writers.” —Kirkus Reviews

“This gentle picture book is perfect for a lapsit. A wonderful addition to collections looking to highlight not just the stories in books, but those that are all around us.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

“Readers will be left reflecting on the ways stories shape our lives. A fitting contemporary to Jacqueline Woodson and Davina Bell.” —Booklist

“The book achieves one of the highest purposes of children’s literature: making the specific—Minnesotan coneflowers or a Gujarati wedding photo—feel universal, and the small—a spring wildflower or a mama’s hug—feel big.” --Minnesota Monthly
Meenal Patel is an artist, author, and designer who at the age of four declared that she wanted to be a butterfly when she grew up. Her work celebrates everyday joys, the moments that connect us, and the strength of community. When she’s not creating books, Meenal loves painting with her nieces, baking birthday cakes, and hiking in forests with her husband and beloved dog, Dosa. Her favorite way to read and tell stories is through pictures. She's still working on becoming a butterfly. Visit her at meenalpatelstudio.com. View titles by Meenal Patel

Classroom Activities for Where Do Stories Live?

Classroom activities supplement discussion and traditional lessons with group projects and creative tasks. Can be used in pre-existing units and lessons, or as stand-alone.

(Please note: the guide displayed here is the most recently uploaded version; while unlikely, any page citation discrepancies between the guide and book is likely due to pagination differences between a book’s different formats.)

Photos

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About

In this charming and meditative story by author-illustrator Meenal Patel, a young girl embarks on a journey to discover the stories all around her.

When Avni receives a journal as a gift, she questions what is worth putting on its blank pages. Through observation, contemplation, and adventure as they walk to their aunt's house, Avni and her younger sister Isha discover the magic of storytelling hiding in butterfly wings, homemade meals, and shared laughter.

This sweet picture book aims to encourage children to recognize and treasure the stories that make up their own lives.

Praise

Praise for Where Do Stories Live? by Meenal Patel:

★ “A warm, beautifully illustrated picture book that guides young readers to discover that stories are everywhere: around us, within us, and woven through our cultures and families.” —School Library Journal, starred review

“Sure to spur wonder and contemplation—and to inspire young writers.” —Kirkus Reviews

“This gentle picture book is perfect for a lapsit. A wonderful addition to collections looking to highlight not just the stories in books, but those that are all around us.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

“Readers will be left reflecting on the ways stories shape our lives. A fitting contemporary to Jacqueline Woodson and Davina Bell.” —Booklist

“The book achieves one of the highest purposes of children’s literature: making the specific—Minnesotan coneflowers or a Gujarati wedding photo—feel universal, and the small—a spring wildflower or a mama’s hug—feel big.” --Minnesota Monthly

Author

Meenal Patel is an artist, author, and designer who at the age of four declared that she wanted to be a butterfly when she grew up. Her work celebrates everyday joys, the moments that connect us, and the strength of community. When she’s not creating books, Meenal loves painting with her nieces, baking birthday cakes, and hiking in forests with her husband and beloved dog, Dosa. Her favorite way to read and tell stories is through pictures. She's still working on becoming a butterfly. Visit her at meenalpatelstudio.com. View titles by Meenal Patel

Additional Materials

Classroom Activities for Where Do Stories Live?

Classroom activities supplement discussion and traditional lessons with group projects and creative tasks. Can be used in pre-existing units and lessons, or as stand-alone.

(Please note: the guide displayed here is the most recently uploaded version; while unlikely, any page citation discrepancies between the guide and book is likely due to pagination differences between a book’s different formats.)