As a writer, I strive to create books that will ignite curiosity in kids
and inspire meaningful connections that they can have with others and the natural world,
​while subtly deepening their understandings about how it works.

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Book summary

Chicken Frank wants to convince his barnyard friends that he is a dinosaur. Cluckity-roar! 

But when results of a DNA test inspire Frank to hold a reunion with toothy relatives, Frank might be on his way to becoming a tasty chicken nugget.

This humorous exploration of evolution, extinction, and scientific debate shows family and friends can be found in unexpected places.

​Find Chicken Frank, Dinosaur! 
​at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

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UPCOMING books from Candlewick/MIT Kids Press

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Eager readers crave 
Chicken Frank, Dinosaur!

​"An amusing and engaging story with a solid educational message about the science of evolution. The bright and humorous illustrations complement the text of the story really well, and children are sure to be both entertained and informed as they read it."
​-- San Fransisco Book Review

"A book for young readers that will stir some fun into the pedagogy."
-- Kirkus Reviews

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Teachers and Librarians!

Grab your FREE Educator Guide
​
14 pages packed with lesson plans, arts, crafts and more. ​

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Bonus worksheet

tails8_skwenger_2025_worksheet.pdf
File Size:	5657 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

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​Creating Chicken Frank.

A ​Craft Activity

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For instructional video: see KidLitTV Crafts and Activities

chicken_frank_character_cupcakes3-egg_free_2022.pdf
File Size:	1239 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

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SPOTLIGHT REVIEWS

​May 2024  Dynamic Book Duos

Jan 2022  Patricia Newman STEM lessons

Apr 2021  Sara Kruger's First Lines Reviews

​Oct 2021 Archimedes Notebook with Sue Heavenrich
​
Oct 2021 PB Buzz with Mindy Alyse Weiss

Sept 2021 Vivian Kirkfield's Perfect Picture Book Friday