Elaine by Wilder, Anden

A quirky chicken named Elaine journeys through the big city in search of artistic inspiration in this funny picture book about self-discovery--a perfect story to inspire young readers to explore their own creative pursuits!

Meet Elaine: a big city chicken with a lot of love for the world. And what she loves the most is her city: the hustle and bustle, the tasty pizza, and best of all, the art. But when Elaine looks around, she sees all sorts of different artists. Painters. Sculptors. Performers. But what kind of artist is SHE?

Come along with one ingenious chicken as she goes in search of what makes a true artist. Told with vibrant illustrations and witty text, this is a story about the beauty of sharing yourself with the world.

Author: Anden Wilder
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Published: 10/20/2026
Pages: 48
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.15lbs
Size: 10.10h x 10.10w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9780593906071
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 08/01/2026
Publishers Weekly 08/17/2026
Booklist 10/01/2026

About the Author
Anden Wilder is an award-winning illustrator and the creator of the picture books Tulip's Mess and Scamp. She attended the Maryland Institute College of Art and graduated with a degree in painting. With a great love for reading and children's literature, she went on to receive a Masters Degree in Educational Psychology and Early Childhood Literacy. She is a mentor for aspiring illustrators at SCBWI and is a professor of illustration at the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design. She lives in Denver, Colorado with her family.