Andrew Lepine: Where Curiosity is the First Step Toward Courage.
This children’s author crafts imaginative tales blending curiosity, humor, and world folklore (Icelandic and Japanese Yōkai). His books teach young readers to be bold, ask questions, and discover that the most significant adventures start with a fearless spirit and a little wonder.
Andrew Lepine writes children’s books that spark wonder, curiosity, and a sense of adventure. With Yasemin Arkun’s lively illustrations, his stories mix humor, heart, and a big dose of imagination—something that really pulls kids in.
At the heart of Lepine’s books, there’s this belief: curiosity is what gets you started on being brave. He shows kids that even the tiniest questions can lead to some wild discoveries. You see this in Where Are the Fish?, where Daphne the dolphin sets off on a quest for answers and ends up learning so much more.
Lepine has a thing for folklore from everywhere. He grabs old legends—think Iceland’s Yule Cat or the Japanese Yōkai—and turns them into fresh stories with a modern twist. Family, kindness, facing your fears—those themes run through everything he writes. AJ and the Yule Cat hit close to home for him; he actually dedicated it to his nephews. Folks say his writing has this lyrical, sing-song quality, packed with rhyme, so his books just beg to be read out loud.
“Daphne the dolphin detective is a modern classic. This delightful mystery teaches children that curiosity is the first step toward courage. Daphne’s yellow hat is a new symbol of bravery for young readers.”
Parent Reviewer
“Yasemin Arkun’s magical illustrations make Daphne’s underwater journey vibrant and alive. The book is a visual masterpiece that fosters empathy for ocean creatures through stunning color and movement.”
Folklore and Family: A.J. and the Yule Cat “A truly wonderful holiday read! Lepine transforms the Icelandic Yule Cat legend into a cozy tale. It perfectly balances winter magic with a heartwarming message of family togetherness and kindness.”
Family Blogger
“Excellent for educators! This book uses a humorous mystery to build critical thinking and perseverance. It powerfully reminds children that the quest for an answer is as rewarding as the discovery itself.”
Elementary Teacher
“A beautiful blend of slapstick humor and adventure! Readers can’t stop giggling at the ‘finely dressed birds.’ Lepine creates memorable characters that jump off the page and stick with you.”
Verified Purchase
“Andrew Lepine is a master of modern folklore. Blending dolphin detectives and Japanese Yōkai, his work is a lyrical invitation for young readers to explore the magic beyond the visible world.”
