Inspiration doesn’t always strike when we expect it, but for Robert D. Dean, it arrived on a quiet, chilly evening. As he nursed a cold while watching autumn leaves swirl outside, a spark of creativity ignited. That moment, which began with a simple observation, led to the creation of his first children’s book, Who Colored the Leaves? A charming bedtime story that not only captures the magic of autumn but also blends whimsical storytelling with clever humor that appeals to both children and adults alike.
Robert D. Dean, a writer with an established reputation for his gripping Civil War novel Echoes of Andersonville and his witty collection Faith & Funnies: Wit and Wisdom From the Porch Swing, has always been captivated by storytelling in various forms. His journey as an author took an exciting turn with the release of Who Colored the Leaves?, his first venture into children’s literature. What makes this book unique is that it was designed with both children and adults in mind, offering a rare combination of lighthearted adventure for young readers and subtle humor for the grown-ups who read alongside them.
The book’s inception is an interesting story in itself. One evening, while battling a cold and unable to sleep, Robert found himself looking out the window and pondering the vibrant transformation of autumn leaves. “It was late at night, and I was listening to the sound of leaves rustling outside. Suddenly, the idea just popped into my head: Why do the leaves change colors in the fall?,” Robert shares. That question sparked an idea that would become the foundation of his first children’s book. Within just a couple of hours, the framework for Who Colored the Leaves? was written. What started as a fleeting thought in the middle of the night quickly blossomed into a heartwarming story.
What makes Who Colored the Leaves? stand out in the world of children’s literature is its appeal to both younger and older readers. The story is a delightful exploration of autumn’s beauty, perfect for children, but it’s the clever humor sprinkled throughout the book that captures the attention of adult readers. Whether it’s parents, grandparents, or caregivers, the story offers an enjoyable reading experience that bridges the generational gap, making it ideal for bedtime reading and family moments.
Since its release, Who Colored the Leaves? has garnered recognition, earning accolades that reflect its quality and universal charm. The book was named a Winner in the 2025 International Impact Book Awards and received First Place in the Children’s Bedtime & Dreams category at the Spring 2025 BookFest Awards. These prestigious awards serve as a testament to the book’s ability to resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, proving that great storytelling can transcend age groups.
For Robert, these awards are a gratifying confirmation that his approach to writing for children has found its audience. “It’s not just a story for kids,” Robert says with a smile. “It’s a gift for parents and grandparents too, a way to connect with the next generation while also enjoying a little humor for themselves.” His hope is that readers of all ages will find the book to be a moment of joy that brings families closer together, especially at bedtime.
Today, Who Colored the Leaves? continues to captivate families, offering a fun, thoughtful way to experience the changing seasons together. Whether shared as a bedtime story, a special gift, or just as a delightful read on a fall afternoon, it provides a refreshing alternative to more traditional children’s books.
For families searching for a new bedtime tradition, Who Colored the Leaves? offers a refreshing way to celebrate the beauty of autumn while enjoying a moment of laughter and connection. The unique combination of storytelling and humor makes it the perfect addition to any bookshelf. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or a family friend looking for a thoughtful gift, this multi-award-winning book brings the warmth of storytelling to readers of all ages. To learn more about the book or to order a copy, visit Amazon.
