Danna Southwell’s “Bertha the Ordinary Chicken” Heads to Frankfurt Book Fair 2026

“Bertha the Ordinary Chicken” by author Danna Southwell is heading to the Frankfurt Book Fair 2026, where the children’s book will be featured at The Maple Staple’s exhibition from October 7 to 11. Copies of the book will be distributed to visitors at Hall 5.1, Stand D86 at Messe Frankfurt in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

At the heart of “Bertha the Ordinary Chicken” is a simple question: what if the things that make someone different are also the things that make them special? The story follows Bertha, the smallest and most ordinary-looking of four chicks. While her siblings each seem to have qualities that set them apart, Bertha struggles to find something special about herself. Teased and left out by the other chickens, she begins a journey toward understanding her own worth.

Bertha eventually discovers that her kind heart, curiosity, and determination are qualities worth embracing. When danger threatens the chicken coop one night, the very difference that once made her feel embarrassed becomes important to saving everyone.

Southwell’s story carries messages about individuality, confidence, kindness, courage, and appreciating differences. It was inspired in part by her experiences as a mother, grandmother, educator, and chicken raiser. A mother of six and grandmother of 15, Southwell earned a BA in Elementary Education with a minor in Music from Brigham Young University and taught school in Salt Lake City, Utah. She has also maintained a piano studio for more than 30 years.

Her love of storytelling began with her grandchildren, who would ask her for stories that carried meaningful messages. That inspiration eventually led to “Bertha the Ordinary Chicken” and other children’s stories in development.

At Frankfurt, Southwell’s book will join The Maple Staple’s third presentation at the international book fair, alongside titles from a wide range of genres.

Visitors can find “Bertha the Ordinary Chicken” at Stand D86 and receive a copy while supplies last. Further information about The Maple Staple’s Frankfurt 2026 showcase is available through The Maple Staple’s Frankfurt Connect profile and its dedicated Frankfurt Book Fair 2026 event page.

Contact Information

Emmanuel Laguardia

Director

The Maple Staple

Contact via E-mail