Young Dream Builder Becomes Published Author: Habitat for Humanity of Chester County Celebrates Former Contestant Siona Talekar

Coatesville, PA – May 2025 – Habitat for Humanity of Chester County (HfHCC) proudly recognizes the accomplishments of Siona Talekar, a 13-year-old author and illustrator whose debut children's book, I Know What You Do When I Go to School, is earning critical acclaim for its creativity, warmth, and insight.

Siona participated in HfHCC’s 20th Annual Build a House, Build a Dream event in 2023, representing Wallingford Elementary School in Wallingford, PA. Her model home project, One with Nature—ingeniously built around a tree—earned multiple honors, including Honorable Mention, Fan Favorite, and Most Earth-Friendly Project. Her creativity and thoughtful design made a lasting impression on event judges and attendees alike.

Since 2003, the Build a House, Build a Dream competition has inspired 5th-grade students throughout the Delaware Valley to construct three-dimensional model dream homes. Judged by professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction, the event serves as a creative outlet and an introduction to HfHCC’s mission: raising awareness about the importance of affordable housing and encouraging future generations to support their communities.

Siona's imagination has since flourished through storytelling. Originally written and illustrated at the age of seven, her debut book, I Know What You Do When I Go to School, is a whimsical exploration of a child's perception of a parent's day. In the story, the narrator imagines her mother enjoying chocolate cake and movie marathons—only to discover that, in reality, she is a devoted pediatric oncologist working tirelessly to care for children with cancer.

Now 13, Siona has thoughtfully refined both the illustrations and narrative. The book has been published by Story Monsters Press (an imprint of Story Monsters LLC) and is now available for pre-order. 

Early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. The Outstanding Creator Awards called it "heartfelt, hilarious, and packed with personality," while Readers' Favorite gave it a 5-star review, describing it as "a delightful story that captures children's curiosity." Reviewers note that Siona's humor and warmth will resonate with readers of all ages, making this a must-read for children and families alike.

In addition to her literary talents, Siona is committed to giving back. She is donating copies of her book and Story Monsters Greenie Boxes™ to Title I schools, children's hospitals, and literacy programs supporting underserved youth.

Habitat for Humanity of Chester County is incredibly proud of Siona and honored to have played a role in her journey. Her story illustrates the profound impact programs like Build a House, Build a Dream can have in sparking imagination, empathy, and community engagement in young people.

Resources

• Siona’s author page at Story Monsters

• Watch Siona’s book video on YouTube

• Visit Story Monsters Ink magazine

• Browse the full Story Monsters book catalog

About Habitat for Humanity of Chester County

Habitat for Humanity of Chester County is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide by constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes, advocating for fair and just housing policies, and providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions. Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman, and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety. For more information, visit www.hfhcc.org.

Media Contact:

Christy Kane

Director of Development and Marketing

Habitat for Humanity of Chester County 

Phone: 610-384-7993 ext. 119

Email: christy@hfhcc.org