About Randi

Randi Sonenshine grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, where she spent much of her childhood exploring forests, streams, and ponds in a pair of trusty tennis shoes and a red canoe. Whether she was poking around in the woods, peering into the water, or wondering what might be hiding under a log, there was always something new to discover. These days, she's still just as curious about the natural world—and through her books, she loves sharing that sense of wonder with young readers.

That curiosity has inspired three nature-themed picture books: THE NEST THAT WREN BUILT, THE LODGE THAT BEAVER BUILT, and THE DEN THAT OCTOPUS BUILT (Candlewick Press). Her books have earned starred reviews, been named Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selections, and landed on numerous notable book lists. She's also the author of THE INSIDE NAME (Apples & Honey Press), a historical fiction chapter book and National Jewish Book Award Finalist. Her short stories and poetry have appeared in publications including CRICKET Magazine.

But for Randi, the fun doesn't stop when a book is published! One of her favorite things about being an author is getting to meet her young readers. A sought-after author visit presenter, she believes stories are meant to be experienced, not just heard. Her lively, interactive presentations are packed with fascinating facts, unexpected props, and hands-on activities.

That same love of learning and discovery carries over into Randi's work as a literacy specialist and instructional coach. When she's not dreaming up stories, she gets to spend her days working alongside amazing teachers and students in all kinds of classrooms.

Randi lives with her husband and a sock-eating poodle in northwest Georgia, where she does her best writing accompanied by birdsong and a good pot of Earl Grey tea. (The poodle is considerably less helpful.)

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