Local author Hoa Bird, center, donated a signed copy of her book “Callabunga! Calla Goes to Kindergarten” to each kindergarten classroom in the Seneca Valley School District. Pictured with Hoa are Sean McCarty, assistant superintendent, and Margie Begg, who helped make the donation possible. Also pictured are Hoa's daughters, Freesia, left front, and Calla.

Each kindergartner in the Seneca Valley School District can hear the story “Callabunga! Calla Goes to Kindergarten” by Hoa Bird, as the book was donated to each kindergarten classroom in the district.

The tale captures the excitement and adventure of starting kindergarten through the eyes of its young protagonist, Calla. The book aims to provide comfort and encouragement to new kindergartners as they take their first steps into the world of formal education.

“I was inspired to write these books for my four girls, ensuring they grow up seeing themselves represented in stories that celebrate diversity,” Hoa said. “As a parent of biracial children, it's important to me that they, and others like them, see themselves in narratives where inclusivity is a natural part of life, not the focal point.”

Hoa said her goal is to create stories that reflect a world where diversity is embraced and every child feels seen and valued.

“We are thrilled to introduce this wonderful book to our youngest Raiders and are grateful for the donation,” said Annie Mersing, development director at the Seneca Valley Foundation. “We believe it will inspire and support all of our students as they transition into this new chapter of their lives.”

The donation of “Callabunga! Calla Goes to Kindergarten” to Seneca Valley’s kindergarten classrooms was made by district employee and Cranberry Township resident, Margie Beggy.

Bird resides in Indiana Township, Allegheny County, with her husband, Adam, and their four daughters: Azalea, Zinnia, Calla and Freesia, each of whom have a book written in their honor.