I’ve got a brand new website, thanks to the amazing Websy Daisy Web Design! Feel free to click on the menu tabs above if you’d like to check out each page. Talented Jenny Medford did a wonderful job and it all turned out to be just the way I wanted the site to look. She’s… Read more »
Fine Art from Friends
Is it just me, or have you noticed a wonderful surge of creativity in the air these days? My walls are getting full from all the work I want to support. Make sure to check out the websites of these artists, since my pictures don’t do them justice, at all–too many glass reflections and other… Read more »
Celebrating Books!
Have you ever been to an author fair or book launch? Not only are they a lot of fun, but it’s a great way to show support for authors, illustrators, and book makers. Even if you’re not able to buy a book that day, or perhaps you’ve already preordered the book that’s being showcased, your… Read more »
TERRY FARISH’S POWERFUL NEW YA NOVEL: GO HOME
In a world beset by anger and fear, what does it mean to protect one’s home and family? So starts the publisher’s description about one of the most important books releasing this month. Written for the young adult market, Go Home is equally interesting for middle school readers and adults of all ages. I was thrilled to interview Terry… Read more »
2024 Picture Books
I thought I’d round up some brand new picture books that caught my eye, as well as my heart. First up, make sure you don’t miss The Little Red Chair. It won’t be released for another month, but lucky for you, you can preorder it right now from just about any bookstore or online site…. Read more »
Critique Groups & Feedback 101
Two of the many things we learned (or relearned) from the pandemic were life is short and the importance of reaching out to others. That, along with the boatload of new manuscripts penned by people suddenly home from the office, brought about a stronger longing for human interaction and/or feedback. What better way to quench… Read more »
Shepherd—Discover the Best Books!
I thought it high time to give a shout out to Shepherd, a rather new online book review hangout, where you can explore and discover your best new reads. Here’s the link for the homepage . Have fun browsing through the many book collections, covering all subjects and genres, for babies through adults. And you… Read more »
The Pleasures of Paper-Cutting
From my first homemade paper doll to fancy detailed illustrations, I have always loved paper-cutting. There’s something about sharp scissors snipping through crisp paper. There are so many amazing traditions of this craft from around the world. To name a few, Jianzhi is the Chinese craft, Papel Picado is Mexican, Scherenschnitt is the word for… Read more »
2023 Picture Books
Hello and Happy New Year! I thought I’d post a quick snapshot of new and upcoming picture books that have caught my attention of late. This first book on my list, hot off the press from Page Street Kids, is super cool. Abby’s determination is an inspiration for people of all ages and in all… Read more »
New Picture Books featuring Animal Characters
I requested three brand new books for review and realized in hindsight that all have animals as main characters. I love animal characters. And I love how animals in picture books can live through scary or rough situations while leaving a little bit of emotional distance from the small children enjoying their stories. Besides, don’t… Read more »
