Recently, I rediscovered the value of making time for critiques. How did that happen? Well, two critique groups I’d belonged to years ago (and had disbanded), both decided to get back together via Zoom. In the few times we’ve met since then, I’ve received a wealth of awesome feedback on …
You’ve probably enjoyed many of the 2020 Caldecott winning books by now. What as outstanding collection this year! Today I’d like to highlight one of the gorgeous Honor Books: GOING DOWN HOME WITH DADDY by Kelly Starling Lyons, illustrated by Daniel Minter (and published by one of my favorite houses, …
Today I have the pleasure of showcasing a lovely, new pb THE SEA KNOWS (Simon and Schuster) by Alice B. McGinty and Alan Havis, illustrated by Stephanie Laberis. As you can tell from the colorful cover, this is a glorious, gorgeous book from start to finish. It’s seemingly simple, yet …
During this challenging season in history, perhaps you’re feeling a bit like me: stressed, fearful, isolated, and/or disappointed over cancelled plans. With all the craziness going on, it may be hard to recognize the good things still in our lives, particularly the wonderful people! Today I hope you might be …
April is National Poetry Month! And just in time, a beautiful new book titled EXQUISITE (by Suzanne Slade, illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera) released this month to celebrate one of the most inspiring poets of all time — the incomparable Gwendolyn Brooks. In fact, Gwendolyn Brooks’ exquisite poetry earned her …
Today I’m thrilled to share The Boy Who Dreamed of Infinity: A Tale of the Genius Ramanujan by Amy Alznauer, and illustrated by Daniel Miyares. This picture book biography begins with stirring words — ones which feel especially meaningful given our current situation: “Today the world is small. With a single …
Last week I randomly selected ten fresh, hot-off-the-presses picture books from my library’s “New Books” cart. My plan was to feature my favorite in this month’s post. And the winner is . . . Greta and the Giants (by Zoe Tucker, illustrated by Zoe Persico)! This sweet, fictional story begins …
Being a picture book author or illustrator can feel like a rather lonely occupation at times. I suppose that’s why many of you visit Picture Book Builders — to learn, share, encourage, and connect with other book creators. In recent years it seems authors and illustrators are gathering together for …
2019 was a great year filled with awesome posts about delightful books at Picture Book Builders. But some weeks were so hectic I missed a few posts. If you missed some too — never fear! Here’s a round up of some of my favorite 2019 posts — one from each …
As 2019 winds to a close, I’d love to celebrate you, our wonderful blog readers. Many of you are fellow picture book writers (some pre-published, others well-published.) So let’s take a moment and share your hard-earned writing accomplishments this year! If you achieved any of the following in 2019, please …