EAU CLAIRE, WI, March 18, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- What happens when a chipmunk the size of a hockey puck decides he belongs in the NHL?

He laces up, hits the ice, and proves everyone wrong.

Parker Publishers is proud to announce the release of "Why Not?" The Story of Guyo the Goalie, a vibrant and heartfelt children's book written by first time author LeAnn Balsiger. Now available on Amazon, this book tells the story of Guyo, a small but fiercely determined chipmunk who dreams of becoming an NHL goalie and refuses to let his size, his age, or his early stumbles stop him from chasing the biggest dream of all.

The Story

From slipping across the ice at his very first practice to earning the nickname The Green Giant on the international stage, Guyo's journey is built on grit, heart, and the kind of determination that refuses to quit. Along the way he faces setbacks, doubters, and moments that test everything he believes about himself. But with the support of his family and his own unshakable belief, Guyo rises through the ranks, earns a spot in the draft, and hears the words every young player dreams of hearing: "The Chicago Blackhawks have chosen Guyo as the 35th pick of the draft!"

But Guyo's story doesn't end at the podium. What makes this book truly special is where it goes next. After reaching his dream, Guyo turns around and does something even more powerful. He gives back. He inspires the next generation of young dreamers, proving that the greatest victories aren't just the ones you win for yourself, but the ones you spark in someone else.

Inspired by a Real Journey

"Why Not?" is not a made up fairy tale. It is rooted in the real life journey of a young hockey goalie who started small, sacrificed everything, trained relentlessly, and went on to be drafted into the NHL. Author LeAnn Balsiger, a Midwest mom of two and a passionate believer in the power of big dreams, was moved to write this story so that young readers everywhere could see themselves in Guyo's journey and believe that their own dreams, no matter how oversized they may seem, are absolutely worth chasing.

"I wanted to share his story so young readers could see that their own dreams, no matter how big, are worth chasing," says Balsiger. "Guyo shows that size, age, and obstacles don't define your future. Your heart and effort do."

What Sets This Book Apart

In a genre filled with stories about winning, "Why Not?" takes a different path. This book doesn't just celebrate the trophy at the finish line. It celebrates the falls, the failures, the early mornings, the long road trips, the quiet moments when quitting would have been easier, and the stubborn courage it takes to keep going anyway. The repeating refrain "Why not now?" gives the story a rhythm that sticks with readers long after the last page, and the final question, "Why not YOU?", turns the spotlight from Guyo to every child holding the book.

Key Themes

Determination and Grit // Family Support // Perseverance Through Failure // Resilience // Positivity and Self Belief

Lines from the Book

"Why not now? I know I am little, but I AM strong! I WILL work hard and prove that I CAN do it!"

"Losing didn't mean you weren't good enough. It just meant you had to keep going."

Book Details

Title: "Why Not?" The Story of Guyo the Goalie
Author: LeAnn Balsiger
Genre: Children's Book (Ages 5 to 9)
Publisher: Parker Publishers
Available: Order on Amazon

About the Author

LeAnn Balsiger is a Midwest mom of two and a first time children's book author who believes deeply in the power of big dreams. She created Guyo the Goalie as a joyful reminder that determination can come in all sizes. Her writing blends warmth, humor, and heart, encouraging young readers to believe in themselves and chase their goals with courage. She writes with the hope that every child who picks up this book sees themselves in Guyo and realizes that their dreams are worth fighting for.

This book celebrates the heart and determination found in youth sports and shows young athletes that big dreams are possible no matter their size or starting point.

For media inquiries, review copies, or interview requests, please contact Parker Publishers.

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