“Hi there! Come sit a spell down by the pond.”
Warm, painterly read-aloud picture books for ages 3–8 — where being different turns out to be the gift. Book One is here.
The Series
Three critters, one big heart.
A growing collection from the pond. One friend is ready to meet today — two more are on their way.
★ BOOK ONE · ON SALE JULY 1, 2026
Bubba the Bucktooth Bullfrog
He's got big dreams, a bigger smile, and two buckteeth that stick out in style! Join Bubba for a fun-filled swamp adventure as he learns that being different is something to be proud of.
Meet the pond hero
Say hi to Bubba! He’s the bravest, buck-toothiest, biggest-hearted bullfrog in the whole swamp — and the very teeth he used to hate are what made him a hero.
Peek Inside
Take a peek inside the swamp.
Every page is painted at golden hour, just like a real Southern evening by the pond.
The heart of the series
Born different. Made to help.
Every critter deep in the woods is born a little different — the very thing they got teased for, or wished away, turns out to be the gift that lets them protect the ones they love. Bubba’s buckteeth. Earl’s glide. Cookie’s sideways eyes. The thing that made him different made him a hero. Because being different is something to be proud of.
Bring Bubba homeJoin the launch list
Be first when Earl & Cookie arrive.
Join the launch list and we’ll send you a free Bubba coloring page right now — plus a heads-up the moment the next friend hatches.
No spam, just pond news. Unsubscribe anytime.
A note from LesleyMeet the author
Lesley Birkert
Lesley writes warm, painterly picture books about the critters deep in the woods — and the simple, powerful truth that the thing that makes you different is the thing the world needs most. He'd love to read Bubba's story with your class or family.
For teachers, librarians & grown-ups
Beautiful enough to gift. Sturdy enough to share.
Perfect for read-aloud.
Kindness, courage, self-acceptance.
A keepsake-quality picture book.
Order single copies or in bulk.