iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Sharks in Kansas? Who knew? Thankfully researchers and scientists have made amazing discoveries. Author Melissa Stewart and illustrator Becca Stadtlander share what they've learned in a satisfying book for those who must know everything. @mstewartscience.bsky.social Read more: bit.ly/4dTRz51

Vicki Palmquist recommends Sharks in Kansas by Melissa Stewart and Becca Standtlander, published by Random House Studio

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

We've closed the book on this year's Alphabet Forest. Here's my wrap-up, shared with my Substack subscribers (and you), in hopes that Alphabet Forests are planted and grown across the country. Read more: bit.ly/3UIa3Pm

The Alphabet Forest at the Minnesota State Fair

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Once Upon a Wardrobe is filled with wonder and love and light. As Meg says, "The way stories change us can't be explained. It can only be felt. Like love." bit.ly/4qCMkvT

book recommendation for Once Upon a Wardrobe: Reading Ahead by Vicki Palmquist on Substack

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

This gorgeous book about Ruth Muskrat Bronson stresses collaboration, education, and family: gadugi, “a Cherokee word that means working together for the good of the community." For my book-loving community ... #NativeAmericans #civilrights #Cherokee My book recommendation: bit.ly/4qnxhGj

Book cover for Ruth Muskrat and the So-Called Indian Problem

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

So many reasons to apologize and so many ways to NOT do it. You'll want to share this book. Read my recommendation: bit.ly/3SpqcZa

I'm Sorry You Got Mad by Kyle Lukoff and Julie Kwon.

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

What a delectable book! Storytelling, heartwarming illustrations, and tasty facts, you'll enjoy The ABCs of Wisconsin Cheese. @SusanApps-Bodilly @ReneeGraef #Wisconsin #cheese #dairy #cows Read my recommendation: bit.ly/454ALUo

ABCs of Wisconsin Cheese by Susan Apps-Bodilly and Renee Graef, published by the Wisconsin Historical Society Press

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

I invite you to read Styx and Stones, a new novel by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge. I can’t stop thinking about it. Read my recommendation: bit.ly/4yJffSp

Book recommendation for Styx and Stones by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

A how-to guide for assembling birthday box kits for elementary-aged kids for Food Shelves. We did this at a recent birthday party in lieu of giving gifts to our friends. #friends #gifts #birthdayboxkits #FoodShelves bit.ly/4x0rAAh

A group of friends prepared Birthday Box Kits for elementary-aged children in lieu of exchanging gifts.

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

I am that person who thrusts a picture book into the hands of unwary visitors to our home. Don't miss this one. Sun, Moon, and Stars by Nancy So Miller. Read my recommendation (link in comments). bit.ly/4b23mNx

The picture book Sun, Moon, and Star: A Folktale from Korea by Nancy So Miller recommended by Vicki Palmquist on Reading Ahead

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

Learn from this gorgeous and factual book about two very different butterflies, the monarch and the mourning cloak. Replete with information, poetry, and terrific illustrations by Melissa Stewart and Sarah S. Brannen. Be inspired to create your own nature journal. Highly recommended. bit.ly/4y2QAbs

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 27/05/2026

An inspiring introduction to grafting apples, something about which I knew very little. A warm and affectionate look at generational farming. Apples for All: bit.ly/4fF8QAI

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 19/05/2026

This week's book recommendation is just right for bicycle enthusiasts, kids who wonder how things work, and history buffs. @sarahnelsonbooks #bicycles bit.ly/4umVDkE

Birth of the Bicycle by Sarah Nelson, illustrated by Iacopo Bruno, published by Candlewick Press

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 15/05/2026

You'll enjoy this satisfying video about the history of Little Golden Books from the folks at The Look Back on PBS Wisconsin. bit.ly/492KzR9

Wisconsin PBS The Look Back video about Little Golden Books

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 13/05/2026

Did you read Little Golden Books as a child? A little history, a little wonder, and some tempting new titles. Read my article: bit.ly/4ue5itG

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My Little Golden Books

Did you read Little Golden Books as a child? A little history, a little wonder, and some tempting new titles.

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 06/05/2026

Yes, Houdini was a magician and an escape artist. But that’s not what this book is about. Harry Houdini was a reader. One of us.

Book recommendation for Houdini's Library by Barb Rosenstock and Mar Delmar, published by Alfred A. Knopf

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 28/04/2026

Sometimes science fiction is just a gossamer curtain away from reality. Is this book sci-fi? Highly recommended. Read my recommendation: bit.ly/4tGKNpk

Vicki Palmquist recommends Meet Me at Blue Hour by Sarah Suk

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 21/04/2026

When I read that author and illustrator Matthew Cordell was inspired by a “cheery, multicolored, multiscented ballpoint pen” to create the art for this book, I had to read 102, own a copy for myself. vickipalmquist.substack.com/p/102

Book recommendation for 102 by Matthew Cordell

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 14/04/2026

This important book will help readers young and old think deeply about our frequent wildfires and what comes afterward. A new book from Louise M. Aamodt and Elly MacKay. Read my recommendation: bit.ly/4tQPywi

A Forest Begins Anew, a new book by Louise M. Aamodt and Elly MacKay

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 09/04/2026

Planning your summer trip itinerary? Are you a Book Person? Have I got a book for you. Book recommendation: bit.ly/41rSCme

Novel Destinations by Shannon McKenna Schmidt and Joni Rendon

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 24/03/2026

This is an inspiring, engaging book for this time of year, when the birds return to our neighborhoods and schoolyards. #birds #birdwatching #birders #lightpollution My book recommendation: bit.ly/4sv7FaH

The picture book The Class with Wings by Paul Fleischman and Hannah Salyer Cameron Kids Abrams

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 20/03/2026

Reading Seen and Unseen will give you a deeper reference for developing an agenda for doing your part to insure that more stringent laws are passed, to make certain people in America are never treated this way again. Book Recommendation: bit.ly/4uCsbHX

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 12/03/2026

There is so much to discuss in this wisely written novel, both for children and adult groups, reading buddies and book clubs. Vaunda Micheaux Nelson has crafted a gentle book, but one that is breathtaking in its scope. bit.ly/4b7oK4d

Vicki Palmquist recommends the book Radiant by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson.

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 05/03/2026

Because I am interested in how authors write their stories, I will often read two or more of their novels in succession so I can observe and learn. Do you do the same? bit.ly/4rg3heh

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25 Library Terrace, The Sewing Machine

Because I am interested in how authors write their stories, I will often read two or more of their novels in succession so I can observe and learn.

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 14/02/2026

In a world that craves understanding, there’s a book for that. This is one of those books. The finest kind. bit.ly/4rjHhA4

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 03/02/2026

At a time when the federal government is terrorizing my community, I am seeking out books that reassure me that family and friends and neighbors are caring and kind. I invite you to read Ohana Means Family. bit.ly/4ceV3yW

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 14/01/2026

Our memories provide the texture of our lives, helping us make sense of who we are. My book recommendation: bit.ly/49AQo7L

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 09/01/2026

Oh, what we can accomplish when we work together ... My recommendation: bit.ly/49LFjlr #healthcare #fundraising #Wisconsin @margipreus.bsky.social

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 30/12/2025

Talking about, reading from, and sharing books … another perfect Jolabokaflod for our memories. We share the books featured at our 2025 evening of reading with friends. bit.ly/3YBGVIp

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 23/12/2025

In my list of books to DO something with, you'll be inspired by Joyce Sidman and Melissa Sweet to create your own letter poems. This book shines! #poetry #letterpoems #inspiring Book recommendation: bit.ly/4j8DPoq

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 16/12/2025

For a book that opens the door widely to joy … and inspires making handmade gifts … Chris Monroe's Chico Bon Bon lights up my heart. #joyofgiving #monkeywithatoolbelt #trashtotreasure #joy #holidays bit.ly/4pAtXGr

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 09/12/2025

This time of year, I like to recommend books that make ideal holiday gifts. As a kid, I especially liked books that could DO something. As an only child, I really liked books that would play with me. Here’s a series by that American humorist, David LaRochelle, that fits perfectly. bit.ly/4plSsHn

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 02/12/2025

Some author-illustrator give insight into people, nature, events, and accomplishments that I can find in no other way. In Old Blue is My Home, Lita Judge shares her insight into the experience of families who live in their cars. Recommendation: bit.ly/4rxVU2Y

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 26/11/2025

This book makes me weep for its beauty. So much about our lives to remember, and honor, no matter how many years we have. Experience this soul-stirring book by Joy Harjo and Michaela Goade. bit.ly/4p6trzV

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 20/11/2025

AmazeWorks volunteered and sponsored the Alphabet Forest at the MN State Fair last August. It's our turn to support them. Their funding has been cut drastically. They help educators and librarians bring books about belonging into classrooms and libraries. Give to the Max Day! give.mn/2djq9f

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 19/11/2025

Some people make you feel good. You can count on them. Other people are more challenging to accept. This is a book about the people who are just right. bit.ly/49tYUXS

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 14/11/2025

Fundraising for AmazeWorks. They work with schools to educate teachers about promoting a culture of belonging in the classroom using children's books. AmazeWorks has lost too much funding this year under our current administration. Please contribute by December 5th. give.mn/2djq9f and bit.ly/3JPiF1o

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 12/11/2025

Who among us hasn't looked a graphic novel and thought, "I could write one of those."? You know? Maybe you can. bit.ly/3XnV0bt

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 06/11/2025

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 05/11/2025

If someone from the government came to your house and said, “You’ll have to abandon this house," what would you do? This novel, set on Rondo Avenue in the 1960s, helps us understand how a Black neighborhood reacted. bit.ly/4oSEnQS

The House on Rondo by Debra J. Stone, published by the University of Minnesota Press

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 29/10/2025

Do you know about cowboy poets? The poetry form is so respected that Badger Clark is a hero for people in the Western United States. This is his story. My book recommendation: bit.ly/4oGmpRF

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 22/10/2025

Ready for a charming, uplifting true story about Nelson Molina, who enthusiastically saved so many items from the trash that he opened a museum? Read my recommendation: bit.ly/43z51pN

Gifts from the Garbage Truck by Andrew Larson and Oriol Vidal

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 15/10/2025

Did you create towns when you played outdoors, hoping to build familiar and exotic shops, homes, and places to explore? Did you want it to last forever? Enjoy Leaf Town Forever by Kathleen Rooney and Beth Rooney, illustrated by Betsy Bowen. bit.ly/3W6obPS

Leaf Town Forever by Kathleen Rooney and Beth Rooney, illustrated by Betsy Bowen, published by University of Minnesota Press

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 16/09/2025

I believe everyone should read this book whether they’re aged 10 or 100. It’s that good. It’s about art changing science. My recommendation: bit.ly/4poQsys

Joyce Sidman The Girl Who Drew Butterflies Reading Ahead

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 09/09/2025

What if your grandpa never talked to you much? What if your mother insisted you take a cross-country road trip with him? What if this summer vacation changes your life? Pablo Cartaya's book will have you eagerly turning the pages. bit.ly/4m7Sksq

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 05/09/2025

We'll celebrate Grandparents Day on September 7. Not everyone is fortunate to know and love their grandparents, but for those who are this book will sing a beguiling melody. #grandparents #grandmothers #indigenousfamilies #picturebooks @kimrogerswriter.bsky.social My recommendation: bit.ly/3HJM78h

Just Like Grandma by Kim Rogers and Julie Flett, published by Heartdrum

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 26/08/2025

I'm excited. Haven't had the experience of reading a serialized novel, like Charles Dickens, RL Stevenson. Breakfast Serials publishes serialized Secret School by @avi-writer.bsky.social, illus by @brianfloca.bsky.social. 1st chapter today; new chapter every Tuesday. I'm subscribed. bit.ly/45RtAPk

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The Secret School - Chapter 1

written by Avi - illustrated by Brian Floca

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 26/08/2025

Barbara Carroll Roberts’ evident love of gardening and insects and not-sports and reading and kids and families and friends gives us a page-turning book that I spent happy hours reading. #gardening #humor #friendship Read my recommendation: bit.ly/45Q49h3

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Vicki Palmquist @vpalmquist.bsky.social · 19/08/2025

For as long as I can remember, I have had an affinity for trees. When I saw a new book by one of my favorite authors, David LaRochelle, was called How to Draw a Tree, illustrated by Colleen Muske, I couldn’t wait to read it. #nature #trees #artist bit.ly/4fMMr2s

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