This Is a Window

"Perfectly captures the rich, fulfilling world of childhood fun to be found in the seemingly mundane." —Kirkus Reviews

The power of children's imaginations takes center stage in this gorgeous, playful rhyming picture book about a group of kids who build a make-believe world in their homes.

Just look at what you can build out of ordinary stuff when you follow your imagination! Children and their caretakers will love this beguiling child-led tour of a make-believe world constructed from everyday household and backyard objects. Words and pictures work together cleverly to spark eureka moments: that “ship” is really a table, that “dark cave” is really a laundry basket, and more, as a day full of building, playing, and pretending turns into bedtime. Children will use their own imaginations and storytelling skills as they figure out what the book’s busy characters are up to in the gorgeous collage-style art. With perfect rhymes that make it an irresistible read-aloud, this delightful book is a classic in the making perfect for a wide audience of parents and childcare professionals, especially anyone seeking a book that celebrates creative play.A Los Angeles County Library Staff Pick
A Favorite Children's Book of 2024 -- Growing Book By Book

“Engaging….a beautiful illustration of the notion that ‘play is the work of children.’ …. Completely child-centered, cheerful….A strong choice for preschool story times and for educators looking for themes of cooperation, curiosity, and creativity….charming." —School Library Journal

“Lively….Who needs toys when your imagination can perform alchemy? With its simple language, celebration of imagination, and large illustrations, this would be a good read aloud for storytimes.” —Youth Services Book Review

"A celebration of childhood, wonder and imagination. KIds can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary....Readers will feel the joy of youth and creativity through the pages." —Little Bookworm Club

"As a child who grew up with an imaginary friend, I really appreciate this book. It’s a lovely ode to childhood and a celebration of a child’s creativity.” —Houston Library FindsLauren Paige Conrad is a self-taught illustrator based in Asheville, NC. She received a BS in textiles from the University of Georgia in 2008 before going on to study fashion design at FIDM San Francisco. After working in product development and with small-scale textile studios, Lauren turned to illustration in 2016. Lauren works in cut paper, gouache, colored pencil, and Neocolor crayon. Lauren is the illustrator of Your One and Only Heart, written by Rajani LaRocca.