I am so pleased to host Kristin O’Donnell Tubb today in celebration of her newest novel, Luna Howls at the Moon — and not just because she’s a fellow dog lover. She’s a generous spirit, as you’ll read below (be sure to comment quickly to enter to win a copy of Luna!) and tender-hearted as… Read more »
I always enjoy hearing the story behind the story and Vicki Conrad’s story behind her newest picture book biography is full of twists and turns, not unlike the swampy Everglades themselves. A Voice for the Everglades: Marjory Stoneman Douglas (Albert Whitman and Company) led Vicki on a several year “scavenger hunt” (to borrow her phrase)… Read more »
Oh, I wish I had known Carolyn Crimi’s secret when I read her delightful novel, Second-Hand Dogs (Balzer+Bray); it would have made reading the book all that much more enjoyable. I did find myself wondering as I read how on earth she was going to get her dog-stars out of their various pickles. And now… Read more »
I adore Irene Latham and not just because she included a poem inspired by Hattie Big Sky in her collaboration with Charles Waters, Dictionary for a Better World, illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini, published by Carolrhoda Books (pages 22-23, in case you’re interested). Irene embraces the fullness of writing in ways I much admire and long… Read more »
It is so much fun to celebrate my fellow book creators and especially so when they’re practically neighbors. Kerri Kokias’ story-behind-the-story of Clever Hans is proof positive that writing for kids is anything but easy (trust me, there are lots of folks who think it is). Kerri’s essay also lends weight to the argument that… Read more »
What a joy to make the acquaintance of Jennifer Ward, a fellow bird lover. As a complete amateur, I am in awe of Jennifer’s knowledge and how she shares it in such an accessible way! She has joined us today in celebration of her newest book, How to Find a Bird, illustrated by Diana Sudyka… Read more »
I first “met” Gennifer Choldenko through her wonderful middle grade novel Notes From a Liar and Her Dog many years ago. Since then, I’ve been fortunate — blessed!– to share many meals, laughs and heart-to-hearts with Gennifer. I’ve always adored her and her work but after reading her true confession below, I adore her even… Read more »
There are so many things I love about Amanda Abler’s essay below, but I think my favorite part has to do with an insight she had about nonfiction (I won’t spoil the surprise). I often think our stories choose us and Amanda’s experience with her debut picture book, The Spirit of Springer: The Real Life… Read more »
Today’s post is about gifts: faithful dogs and faithful friends who walk beside us when we are hurting. Julie Paschkis and Margaret Chodos-Irvine share the poignant story behind the story of their new book together, Where Lily Isn’t, written by Julie and illustrated by Margaret. This picture book will be my new go-to book to… Read more »
I first met featured illustrator Kaelen Felix when she was a preteen. I was presenting at a children’s literature festival in Missouri and Kaelen’s mom drove her a long way just to meet me! I’m so grateful Kaelen’s stayed in touch over the years and so pleased to share her newest illustration effort here, Freddy The… Read more »