I’ve been researching picture book biographies for two new stories I’m working on. I find it such an exciting format for kids to learn about important people in our world. The shorter word count of a picture book can draw in reluctant readers and the illustrations add another layer of interest and understanding. A blurb […]
Look what Scholastic Booktalk I got this time! Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena; the Newbery winner this year! The designated books will get a QR code attached to them in the school library. When the code is scanned by a student using a smartphone, ipad, etc., the book talk video […]
Here are some of the wonderful books I read in February that you should check-out. I just finished reading Newbery winner Sarah, Plain and Tall with some my students. Aren’t I lucky that I get to read children’s books as part of my job? Happy reading, everyone! Babies and Toddlers (0-2 years) & Preschool (3-5 years): Preschool […]
Happy Valentine’s Day, book lovers! If February 14th makes you a little cranky, then you need to check-out this book by Samantha Berger. And I love the illustrations by Dan Santat!
Last October, I entered children’s author and blogger Susanna Leonard Hill’s popular “Halloweensie” contest. She has decided to keep the fun going for Valentine’s Day with the first ever “Valentiny” contest. The rules: write a Valentine’s story for children that is 214 words or less and includes someone who is grumpy. Here is my entry: […]
We got a TON of snow this month and I was able to read a TON of books. Here are a few that I’d recommend. Preschool (3-5 years) and up: Preschool (3-5 years) & Early Elementary (5-8 years): Middle Grade (8-12 years): Young Adult+ (14+ years):
An EPIC snow storm is upon us here in Virginia and there’s a mad scramble for all the essentials. Photos have been shared on the web of grocery store shelves that are wiped clean. People are going crazy! The kids and I took a trip to our public […]
How do you know you check-out A LOT of library books? When you go to pick-up your reserved books and you can’t find them under the designated “W” section for Whitehouse so you have to ask the librarian where your books are and she says when you have too many books… they put them on […]
The John Newbery Medal and Randolph Caldecott Medal winners, along with the Honor books, have been announced. And let me tell you, this year is BIG. A picture book was awarded the top honor for writing! For me as a picture book writer, this is like my team winning the Super Bowl. Go team! Last Stop on […]
I’m a mother and teacher by day and wannabe children’s book author by night. Read more about me