One of the best things about my path to publication has been the formation of Kidlit Works, the fantastic debut group I am a member of. I got to know other writers with books coming out this year—and their stories. And now that it’s 2024, I get to talk about …
Today I want to share a lovely picture book pairing: one is a nonfiction biography and the other is a fictional tale written by the subject of the biography and her daughter. Who else could it be but the amazing and multitalented Dame Julie Andrews! In SONG AFTER SONG: THE …
Hello, Picture Book Builders people. One of the picture books that brought me a whole lot of joy in 2023 was Down the Hole, written by Scott Slater and illustrated by Adam Ming. It has humor! It has drama! It even has the barcode incorporated into the art! Evidence: But …
The Red Jacket by Bob Holt mixes character and humor to tell the perfect story about making friends and fitting in. This is a wonderful picture book to point out how both the illustrations and spare text is used to take turns telling the story. At the beginning, we meet …
I like picture books about gardens. Which is kind of funny, because I don’t have a garden and never will. I manage to keep one houseplant alive, and that’s about the extent of my gardening abilities. But hypothetical gardens in picture books are a wonderful thing. And, I love all …
Hello, readers! Today I’m keeping it short with a quick look at a funny title from 2022 (Kids Can Press), written by Monica Silvie and illustrated by Elina Ellis. This cover grabbed me right away. Those eyes, right? This little chickadee could not be more quirky and original. Right off …
On February 20th – my third rhyming picture book, AFIKOMAN, WHERE’D YOU GO? A PASSOVER HIDE-AND-SEEK ADVENTURE – will be released into the world! (Available for Pre-Order Now!) I’m so excited and I JUST CAN’T HIDE IT!!!! (Although the main character of this book, the Afikoman, IS hiding on every spread, thanks to the …
My kindergartners and first graders can’t get enough of fairy tales. And the second graders have a whole unit for studying folktales and fairytales from around the world. Ying Chang Compestine is queen of retellings, and RA PU ZEL AND THE STINKY TOFU, with its feisty heroine, adorable pup, and …
Publisher’s book description: With a pinch of hope and a dash of zing, we can do anything! The bakerinas are hard at work creating holiday goodies for kids around the world when a blizzard whips up trouble. Will the bakerinas deliver their treats in time? With enchanting illustrations and charming …
Just Ten (of the Many) Reasons I Love Just One Flake by Travis Jonker: 1. There is real deal, I-got-fully-invested-in-it drama. 2. It offers a sense of child-like wonder. 3. The main character is relatable. 4. I love the word “Oof.” in a picture book. 5. It is charming. 6. …