Children's book celebrates history, traditions, & heart of Woodbine
Local author and educator Bracinda Jean invites readers on a heartfelt journey through the halls of Woodbine Community School with the release of A Trip Through Time at Woodbine... With a Little Help from Archie, the Attic Mouse.
Beautifully blending imagination with authentic local history, the story follows Harper, a curious student searching for where she belongs. With the gentle guidance of Archie, a friendly attic mouse who has quietly watched generations of students pass through the school, Harper discovers that every hallway, classroom, trophy, and yearbook holds stories waiting to be shared.
As Harper travels through the school's past, readers experience the traditions that have helped shape the Woodbine community, from cherished Homecoming celebrations and Friday night football under the lights to music, academics, school pride, and the everyday moments that become lifelong memories. Along the way, Harper learns that every student, every teacher, every volunteer, and every family becomes part of the continuing story of their school.
Adding another unique dimension to the adventure, authentic historical photographs and familiar Woodbine landmarks are thoughtfully woven throughout the illustrations. These carefully restored images connect the fictional story with the real buildings, places, and moments that have shaped generations of students, encouraging families to compare the past with the present while sharing memories of their own.
Designed to be enjoyed across generations, A Trip Through Time at Woodbine... With a Little Help from Archie, the Attic Mouse combines engaging storytelling with meaningful educational value. While younger readers will delight in Harper's adventure and the warm, richly detailed illustrations, parents, grandparents, teachers, alumni, and community members will appreciate the historical connections and conversations the story inspires.
"Every school has a story, and every student becomes part of it," says Bracinda Jean. "I hope this book reminds readers that no matter what role they play—whether in the classroom, on the football field, in the band, behind the scenes, or in the community—they matter. Every generation adds another chapter to the story."
About the Author:
Bracinda Jean is an Iowa author, educator, photographer, and lifelong storyteller with deep roots in the Woodbine community. Her family has proudly been part of Woodbine Community School for generations, with her children representing the fifth generation to graduate from Woodbine and her grandchildren now continuing that tradition.
Inspired by a love of education, local history, and the communities that shape our lives, Bracinda wrote A Trip Through Time at Woodbine... With a Little Help from Archie, the Attic Mouse to help young readers discover where they belong by understanding where they come from. Through Harper's journey, she encourages children to appreciate the people, traditions, and everyday moments that become part of a school's living history.
By blending imaginative storytelling with authentic historical photographs and familiar Woodbine landmarks, Bracinda hopes to inspire families to share memories across generations and remind every student that they are an important part of their school's continuing story.
"Every school has a story. Every student has a place in it.”
Recommended Ages: 5–12
A Trip Through Time at Woodbine with a Little Help from Archie the Attic Mouse is designed to be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Younger children will delight in Archie’s adventure and colorful illustrations when the story is read aloud by a parent, grandparent, or teacher. Older elementary students can read independently while discovering the history, traditions, and people who helped shape Woodbine Community School.
The book also serves as a wonderful bridge between generations, inviting families to share school memories and celebrate the lasting impact of their community.
