When Was The Whirligigs Book First Published?

I've always had a soft spot for children's literature, and 'Whirligigs' by Paul Fleischman is one of those books that stuck with me long after I first read it. From what I remember, it was first published in 1998, a time when YA and children's books were starting to explore more experimental storytelling techniques. Fleischman's work stood out because of its unique structure—it's a collection of interconnected short stories that revolve around a single object, a whirligig, which travels across the country and touches the lives of different people. The book's themes of interconnectedness and the ripple effects of small actions resonated deeply with me, and it's one of those rare reads that feels both simple and profound.

What makes 'Whirligigs' particularly memorable is its ability to weave together seemingly unrelated lives into a cohesive narrative. The whirligig itself becomes a symbol of how our actions, no matter how small, can impact others in ways we might never see. Fleischman's writing is lyrical yet accessible, making it a great choice for younger readers while still offering plenty of depth for adults. The book's publication in the late '90s feels fitting—it captures a sense of optimism and curiosity about the world that was characteristic of that era. If you haven't read it yet, it's definitely worth picking up, especially if you enjoy stories that leave you thinking long after you've turned the last page.