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 »
Children’s Books
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 »
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 »
New Picture Books for 2022!
Time to catch up on some picture books I’ve recently reviewed. Thanks to Candlewick Press for sharing these first three newly released (or nearly released!) books with me for an early sneak peek and in turn, a heads-up for my readers, too. FIRSTS AND LASTS: THE CHANGING SEASONS is written by Leda Schubert and is… Read more »
2022 ALA Youth Media Awards
Everyone’s been talking about the latest American Library Association awards for last year’s children’s books. It’s a great honor for authors and illustrators to show an ALA award sticker on their books. From the announcement date on, sales skyrocket. Here are some of the highlights. Winner of the 2022 Newbery Medal is The Last Cuentista,… Read more »
Spring Fling Contest Entry
Rules include finding or making a GIF and then writing a short children’s story to go with it—maximum word count = 150. The crocus picture is from bestanimations.com and the caterpillar is Anardi’s at gifer.com. I combined them (my first homemade gif attempt!) by using giphy.com My entry for the Spring Fling KidLit Contest: STILL… Read more »
National Library Week & Writing News
First off—Happy National Library Week—April 19-25, 2020 Libraries have so much to offer, even from the comfort of your own home. Have you checked your local library’s online offerings? From story-times to downloadable books, movies, magazines, audiobooks, and music, there’s something for everyone. As mentioned in my last post, I’ve had trouble concentrating on my… Read more »
Staying Home
Hi there! It’s been way too long that I’ve let my little blog go unattended and I figured it was time to check in. I also plan to click on all my favorite blogs and make sure everyone is safe. I’m curious to find out how you’ve been keeping sane and what you’ve been doing… Read more »
