Inspired by the question word posters found in classrooms everywhere, if who i am is what i’m not turns the six foundational inquiry words into a whimsical and rhythmical journey that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and self-discovery. Through lyrical language and surreal illustrations, grammar becomes imagination—and inquiry becomes adventure.

A perfect bedtime story or a creative classroom companion for reading, writing, and SEL discussions, this book helps young readers explore how asking questions shapes the way we understand the world—and ourselves.

Written by a father of eight - yes eight - if who i am is what i’m not was born at bedtime—crafted to make his own kids laugh, think, and feel seen. Originally written as a high school classroom poem assignment, if who i am is what i’m not was expanded and illustrated to entertain and encourage all eight of his children and will become a bedtime favorite in the author’s own home. While the younger ones giggle through the rhymes and questions, the older kids are drawn to the artwork and love challenging themselves to read it without tripping over the words.

Perfect for teachers seeking fresh ways to inspire curiosity, reflection, and rich language connections, this book transforms familiar classroom words into something lyrical, memorable, and visually stunning. With mind-bending, imaginative illustrations and poetic rhythm on every page, it’s a creative companion to anchor charts and language lessons—inviting students to explore not just how we ask questions, but who we are becoming when we do.

Whether shared in the classroom or curled up at night, this book invites families to slow down, laugh together, and enjoy the playful side of asking big questions.