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Paula Puia
Author
Growing curiosity through nature, story, and little hands.
Paula Puia is a children’s picture book author who creates nature-centered stories that blend gentle storytelling with early STEM learning.
Her work follows siblings Amato and Ariana and their nurturing Nonna, exploring themes of curiosity, patience, and discovery through hands-on interactions with the natural world. Through these character-driven stories, Paula introduces young readers to foundational scientific concepts including plant life cycles, environmental adaptation, propagation, and plant care.
Her books form a concept-driven picture book series, with each title focusing on a distinct STEM concept while maintaining a consistent emotional core rooted in observation, inquiry, and real-world experience. Designed to stand alone while building a cohesive learning progression, her work is well-suited for both classroom integration and shared reading at home.
Paula’s storytelling is informed by her hands-on experience as the founder of Elevated Succulents, where she works directly with plants and leads interactive STEM workshops for children. Through these workshops, she introduces young learners to planting, observation, and the science of caring for living things—an approach that directly shapes the authenticity and educational depth of her books.
Inspired by time spent with her grandchildren, Paula writes stories that encourage children to slow down, ask questions, and discover how science is present in the world around them.
Books
Stories that grow curiosity—where nature, science, and storytelling meet.
TREASURE AT THE SEASHORE
772 words • Ages 4–8 • STEM Infused Contemporary picture book
A STEM-integrated picture book centered on environmental discovery and hands-on plant care.
During a seaside walk, Amato and Ariana collect driftwood and seashells—objects shaped by the ocean over time. What begins as a simple treasure hunt becomes something more when Nonna encourages them to transform their finds into living homes for succulents.
As they clean, prepare, and plant, the children engage in observation, sequencing, and hands-on problem-solving. Through this process, they discover that living things require the right conditions—and thoughtful care—to grow and thrive.
Sample cover – final design may vary
THE DAY THEIR TREASURES MULTIPLIED
590 words • Ages 4–8 • STEM Infused Contemporary picture book
A concept-driven STEM picture book introducing plant propagation and reproduction.
When leaves begin to fall from their succulents, Amato and Ariana worry the plants are failing. But as they observe more closely, they notice something unexpected—tiny roots forming at the base of each fallen leaf.
With Nonna’s guidance, they learn that succulents can reproduce through propagation, where a single leaf can grow into a new plant. As new growth fills their space, the children carefully transplant and share the plants, transforming their initial concern into discovery—and discovery into abundance.
Sample cover – final design may vary
THE DAY THE SUCCULENTS GOT THIRSTY
611 words • Ages 4–8 • STEM Infused Contemporary picture book
An inquiry-based STEM picture book exploring water storage and environmental response in plants.
On a hot summer day, Amato and Ariana notice their once-plump succulents looking wrinkled and dry. Concerned, they begin to investigate what the plants are telling them.
Through observation, touch, and guided exploration, they discover how succulents store water within their leaves and how heat and sunlight affect plant needs. As they respond with care, the children learn to recognize signs of water stress and understand how living things adapt to changing environments.
Sample cover – final design may vary
THE DAY THE SUCCULENTS BLOOMED
650 words • Ages 4–8 • STEM Infused Contemporary picture book
A STEM-focused picture book exploring seasonal adaptation and plant life cycles.
As winter approaches, Amato and Ariana bring their succulents indoors and begin to notice subtle but concerning changes—colors fading, growth slowing, and watering needs shifting. Wondering if something is wrong, they look to Nonna for answers.
With gentle guidance, they learn that the plants are entering a natural period of rest. Then, in the quiet of winter, delicate flower stalks begin to emerge, eventually blooming and forming seeds. Through this transformation, the children witness a key stage in the plant life cycle and discover that growth continues even when it cannot yet be seen.
Sample cover – final design may vary
Series Positioning
This concept-driven picture book series introduces foundational plant science concepts through the everyday experiences of Amato, Ariana, and their Nonna.
Each title focuses on a distinct STEM concept—environmental interaction, seasonal adaptation, propagation, and water regulation—while maintaining a consistent narrative voice centered on curiosity, observation, and discovery.
The series is designed to stand alone while offering strong scalability across both trade and educational markets.
Workshops
Ideal for classroom discussion in science, nature and family connection
Through interactive succulent workshops, Paula helps children explore planting, patience, and the science behind caring for living things.
• Hands-on succulent planting workshops for young learners
• Introduces early STEM concepts through real plant care
• Encourages fine motor skills, observation, and responsibility
• Designed for ages 2+ with beginner-friendly instruction
• Ideal for classrooms, community programs, and family events