About the Book

It all started with a crooked stick…

On Farmer Johnny's farm, a rare and radiant young peacock named Snow Pea watches over her fellow peeps. They spend their days playing in golden fields and dancing in the rain — but what the peeps look forward to most is the full moon, and with it, the arrival of Poppy the Grand Pea.

Each month, beneath the glow of the Pink Moon, Poppy appears carrying a crooked talking stick etched with stories, adorned with feathers and sea glass, and filled with wisdom gathered from across time and place. As the peeps gather around the fire, Poppy shares a tale — this month, from ancient Rome, about a bird named Pavo who longed to be something he was not, only to discover he was already enough.

Through Poppy's storytelling, Poppy draws from a rich global tradition of passing wisdom through story — encouraging children to listen, reflect, and find meaning for themselves. The symbolic talking stick reminds young readers of the power of both speaking and being heard, while the rhythm of the full moon creates a sense of wonder, continuity, and connection.

A lyrical, beautifully imagined tale of self-acceptance, inner strength, and belonging — perfect for reading aloud on any night the moon feels just a little bit closer.