Picture a storyteller who turned a turkey’s Thanksgiving woes into a beloved children’s classic—meet Wendi Silvano! This award-winning American author has been delighting young readers for over two decades with her whimsical picture books and early readers. Best known for her hilarious Turkey Trouble series, Silvano’s knack for clever wordplay and heartwarming stories has earned her a special place in children’s literature.
A former teacher and mother of five, Silvano infuses her work with a playful spirit that resonates with kids and parents alike. From disguises to holiday hijinks, her stories are as engaging as they are educational, making her a go-to for classroom read-alouds and cozy bedtime tales.
The Making of Wendi Silvano
Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Wendi Silvano grew up in a world of stories, spending her childhood in Peru, Oregon, and Grand Junction, Colorado. With a B.A. in Early Childhood Education, she spent eleven years teaching preschool and elementary school, honing her understanding of what captivates young minds. Her love for children’s literature, sparked in her own childhood, led her to writing. Today, she crafts her tales from her home in Western Colorado, surrounded by stunning red sandstone canyons and a menagerie of quirky pets—none, she insists, as clever as her fictional turkey.
Wendi Silvano’s Unforgettable Stories
Silvano’s Turkey Trouble series, launched in 2009, is her crowning achievement. The first book, Turkey Trouble, follows a quick-witted turkey who dons hilarious disguises—like a horse, cow, and pizza deliveryman—to avoid becoming Thanksgiving dinner. Its clever narrative and Lee Harper’s vibrant watercolors won the International Reading Association’s Children’s Choice Award in 2010. Sequels like Turkey Claus, named one of YABC’s Top 10 Picture Books of 2012, and Turkey Trick or Treat keep the fun going with holiday-themed antics.
Beyond turkeys, Silvano’s portfolio shines with variety. Just One More, another Children’s Choice Award winner, captures the irresistible urge to ask for “one more” of everything. Her early readers, magazine stories, and educational materials showcase her versatility, often blending humor with lessons on problem-solving and creativity. Silvano’s style—packed with puns, animal sounds, and relatable characters—makes her books perfect for ages 3–6, encouraging giggles and sparking imagination.
Collaborating with illustrators like Lee Harper, Silvano brings her zany worlds to life. Her stories often center on farm animals navigating human traditions, reflecting her knack for turning everyday scenarios into laugh-out-loud adventures. Whether it’s a turkey sneaking into an Easter egg hunt or delivering valentines in disguise, Silvano’s tales are both timeless and fresh.
Why Wendi Silvano Matters
Wendi Silvano’s impact lies in her ability to make reading a joyous adventure. Her books, staples in classrooms and libraries, teach kids about resilience and ingenuity through humor. The Turkey Trouble series, with its universal appeal, has inspired countless school projects where kids craft their own turkey disguises. Her work also bridges generations, as parents and teachers cherish the stories’ wit and warmth.
As a former educator, Silvano understands the power of storytelling in early learning. Her books, praised by outlets like School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly, are more than entertainment—they’re tools for building literacy and confidence. By celebrating creativity and quick thinking, Silvano leaves a lasting mark on young readers.
- Born: Salt Lake City, Utah
- Key Works: Turkey Trouble, Turkey Claus, Just One More
- Awards: Children’s Choice Award (2010), YABC Top 10 Picture Books (2012)
- Hobbies: Reading, hiking, playing piano, eating chocolate
Snag Turkey Trouble and dive into Wendi Silvano’s playful world of feathered fun!