Lizzie Finds Her Spark! is a joyful, confidence-building story set in the heart of New Orleans, where every child is invited to see themselves as a thinker, a problem-solver, and a future innovator.
Lizzie is an inquisitive kid who loves her neighborhood filled with music, movement, and flavor. Like many children, she has big questions about the future especially one that keeps tugging at her curiosity: What will I be when I grow up? Inspired by her mamá’s journey to the United States in search of opportunity, Lizzie begins to imagine a path of her own, one rooted in exploration, courage, and a growing love for science, technology, engineering, and math.
As Lizzie explores her city with her friends Ryan and Marigny, and her loyal dog Pepper, young readers of all genders and backgrounds discover that STEM isn’t just for one type of kid. Through three relatable, real-world experiences, children learn alongside the Spark STEM Squad as they spot STEM in everyday life:
🚋 A streetcar ride that shows how things move, connect, and are designed to help people
💊 A pharmacy visit that introduces observation, measurement, and everyday science
🏭 A behind-the-scenes plant tour that sparks curiosity about how big ideas become real solutions.
Written for readers ages 8–12, Lizzie Finds Her Spark! is an 84-page multicultural chapter book that celebrates curiosity, teamwork, and imagination. Without feeling like a lesson, the story naturally strengthens reading comprehension, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while helping children see that STEM belongs to everyone.
Most of all, Lizzie’s journey reminds young readers that they don’t have to have everything figured out to belong in STEM. Big ideas can start anywhere , in any neighborhood, in any family, and in any child willing to ask questions.
✨ Every child has a spark. This story helps them find it.
