Welcome to…

Creative Grace where Imagination meets Youth Leadership

I believe every "What If?" is an invitation to create.

— Athena Collins Student · Author · Founder
Athena, age 11, reading her original "What If Birds Wore Shoes?" — 2021
Athena, age 11, reading her original "What If Birds Wore Shoes?" — 2021
5 out of 5
Ships worldwide 30-day returns Signed copies available
Athena Collins
Athena holding her First Published Children's Book – May 1, 2026
Meet the author

Athena turned "what if?" into a real, printed, hold-in-your-hands book.

"I believe every What If? is an invitation to create. "

Whether you are here to explore my debut book What If Birds Wore Shoes? or dive into the What If Youth Initiative, you are in a space where every big idea has a place to grow.

What if one story could make a child
believe in themselves?

Athena Collins

Student I  Author  I  Founder

The What If Book Collection Store

Slideshow

What If Book Collection

Stories That Spark Curiosity

Explore my latest published What If Adventure, designed to celebrate individuality and the joy of discovery.

What If Book Collection

What If Birds Wore Shoes?

FEATHERED FRIENDS, FANCY FOOTWEAR AND ONE CROW’S QUEST TO FIND THE PERFECT FIT

Ever wondered what a flamingo might wear for a splash in the lake? Or whether penguins prefer fluffy slippers for their icy toes?

Join Clawd the crow on a whimsical, feather‑filled adventure as he searches for the perfect pair of shoes. From stylish friends to fancy footwear, Clawd tries everything to fit in, only to discover that his own two feet (and his unique spirit) were exactly what he needed all along.

What If Birds Wore Shoes? cover

Why What If Birds Wore Shoes? belongs on Your Bookshelf

  • Encourages Self Acceptance (SEL)
    A gentle, heart warming story that helps children learn that being different isn’t just okay, it’s something to celebrate.
  • Interactive Seek and Find Fun
    Hidden pebbles on every page invite little readers to look closely, turning story time into a playful learning adventure.
  • Sparks Creative Thinking & Early Leadership
    Built around curious “What if?” thinking, this story nurtures imagination and confidence.
  • Perfect for Ages 2–6
    With lyrical text and joyful illustrations; it’s just right for bedtime snuggles, preschool classrooms, library circles, or calming school day nerves as children trade “what if worries” for “what if wonders.”

More Than Just a Story

What If Birds Wore Shoes? is a cornerstone of the What If Youth Initiative, a movement dedicated to nurturing creativity, confidence, and leadership in the next generation.

When you add this book to your collection, you’re also giving back:

10% of the net proceeds from every book is donated to the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Supporting mental wellness for families and communities.

Paperback · Ships Worldwide

What If Youth Initiative • 500+ Children Reached

Inside, You’ll Discover

A few sample pages from What If Birds Wore Shoes? - flip through to meet Clawd the Crow and some of his feathered friends.

Testimonials

Beautiful Story!

I would like to thank the author for this beautiful story: The content shows how we can love and value our selves and to be different. I was proud to have read this story to 3-5 year olds, with a positive emotional response and understanding.

- Fiona H,

Teacher

Testimonials

This story should be shared with children around the world!

"Reading "What If Birds Wore Shoes?" to 340 students, staff, and families at our final Kindness Assembly was a wonderful reminder that our differences are what make us special. I encouraged our Grade 5 graduates to follow their own path, choose kindness even when it's hard, and never be afraid to stand out. Hearing the students enthusiastically "caw" along made the experience unforgettable. This is a story that should be shared with children around the world."

Meagan P

Teacher Librarian/Planning Time Teacher 

Testimonials

My son Loved the story!

 

“My 4-year-old son Walter was at Playbox last week and just loved the story, he has been talking about Clawd ever since."

Samantha M

Parent of Walter