A mother and daughter team from Colorado just created a fun board book that teaches little ones about their home state. Titled 100 First Words for Little Coloradans, the book comes out on October 7, 2025, and packs in local wonders to spark young imaginations.1
The Inspiration Behind the Book
Jessica Speer and her teenage daughter Shea drew from their deep roots in the Centennial State to craft this special project. They have lived in Colorado for most of their lives and wanted to capture the joy of everyday adventures there. Speer shared that the process let them relive favorite memories, from mountain hikes to local festivals.
This book stands out because it goes beyond basic words like cat or ball. Instead, it focuses on what makes Colorado unique, helping babies and toddlers build vocabulary tied to their surroundings. Families across the state can use it to start conversations about nearby landmarks and traditions.
The duo aimed to make learning exciting for young Coloradans. By blending personal stories with state pride, they hope to inspire a love for home from an early age.
Spotlight on Colorado Icons Featured
The book dives into a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun spots that define Colorado life. Readers will spot words like Palisade Peaches, which nod to the famous fruit grown in the Grand Valley area. Another highlight is Dinosaur Ridge, a real spot near Denver where fossils draw crowds every year.
Here are some key examples of words included that capture the state’s spirit:
- SUP: Short for stand-up paddleboarding on calm lakes like those in Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Crampons: Tools for climbing icy peaks, perfect for families who love winter sports.
- Casa Bonita: The quirky restaurant in Lakewood known for its cliff divers and Mexican food.
- Granola: A healthy snack tied to Colorado’s outdoor, active lifestyle.
These choices show how the book mixes education with entertainment, encouraging kids to explore their backyard.
Meet the Author Duo: Jessica and Shea Speer
Jessica Speer brings years of experience as an award-winning writer for children and teens. Her past works cover topics like friendships and smart screen use, always with a focus on helping kids grow. She lives in Colorado and often draws from local life in her stories.
Shea, her daughter, added fresh ideas as a co-author. At a young age, she helped pick words that feel real to growing up in the state. Their teamwork makes the book a true family affair, full of heart.
Speer has spoken at events and shared her passion for literacy. This project marks a fun shift to even younger readers, building on her expertise in kid-friendly content.
Why This Book Fits Perfectly in 2025
Colorado continues to boom as a family destination, with tourism up by over 10 percent in recent years. Books like this tap into that trend, giving parents tools to teach state history amid busy lives. As more families settle here for the outdoors and schools, resources that highlight local culture become essential.
Experts note that early vocabulary books boost brain development, especially when linked to real places. This one aligns with growing interest in regional pride, similar to hits for other states like New Yorkers or Texans.
| Key Book Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | 100 First Words for Little Coloradans |
| Authors | Jessica Speer and Shea Speer |
| Illustrator | Gareth Williams |
| Publisher | Familius (Abrams) |
| Format | Board Book, 20 pages |
| Release Date | October 7, 2025 |
| Price Range | Around $8.99 |
This table sums up the basics, making it easy for buyers to check facts at a glance.
Where Families Can Find and Enjoy It
The book will hit shelves at major stores like Barnes & Noble and online spots such as Amazon. Local Colorado bookstores may host signings, tying into the fall reading season. Parents can pair it with trips to featured sites for hands-on learning.
With colorful illustrations and sturdy pages, it suits babies from six months up. It even includes pop culture nods that parents will chuckle at, like references to famous ski spots or breweries in a kid-safe way.
As Colorado’s population grows with young families, this book arrives at the right time. It solves the need for engaging, local content that entertains while teaching.
Grab a copy of 100 First Words for Little Coloradans when it drops on October 7 and share your favorite Colorado word in the comments below. Tell us how it sparks joy in your family and pass it along to friends who love the Centennial State.
