Children's Writer
This week for PPBF, I want to share a gentle, thoughtful, beautiful picture book with a story like none I’ve ever seen. Title: The Dam Written by: David Almond Illustrated by: Levi Pinfold Candlewick Press, 2018 Suitable for ages: 5-8 Themes/topics: music, change, hope, loss Opening: He woke her early. “Bring your fiddle,” he said. The … More The Dam
These days, picture books come in all sizes and lengths. There are so many new ones that are longer, meant for upper elementary and middle school aged kids. Yes, picture books are not just for little ones anymore! Yay! Because I think this unique art form is perfect in so many ways—and here’s an example … More Countdown, 2979 Days to the Moon
Friday, Feb. 1, 2019 is the 10th annual World Read Aloud Day!! Join with people of all ages around the world and celebrate the joy of story! Pull a book off the shelf. Visit a library. Stop in a bookstore and find a new treasure. A shared reading experience has always been one of my … More Happy World Read Aloud Day!!
Though you might be tired of hearing the word “wall,” there’s a good chance you’ll love today’s Perfect Picture Book Friday selection. You might see it as politically and socially relevant, or you might see it as a fun story for kids. Either way, it’s a winner! Title: The Wall in the Middle of … More The Wall in the Middle of the Book
Have you heard complaints about the deterioration of the language? How kids don’t learn cursive anymore? How texting is ruinous? Well, it’s nothing new! Today, in honor of Ben Franklin’s 313th birthday, I’d like to invoke a birthday Festivus and air his grievances. Ben Franklin is a historical rock star with his endless curiosity, sharp wit, … More Behind the Scenes: Happy Birthday, Ben Franklin! You’re Quite a Character!
Barbara Jordan always impressed me as a phenomenal woman. She inspired reverence and awe and spoke to something deep inside. Such dignity and resolution. There are hardly words for her. But Chris Barton found the words, and Ekua Holmes has created such magnificent and complex illustrations. This is a picture book is big and bold … More What Do You Do with a Voice Like That?
Every once in a while I like to include a recommendation for middle grade books. I haven’t featured one in a while, so when the publisher offered to send me a copy of THIS PROMISE OF CHANGE for review, I welcomed the opportunity. This is an important book for young readers anytime. May we all … More This Promise of Change
It’s Perfect Picture Book Friday, and here’s the perfect book for little ones ready to hit the slopes! Title: Teach Your Giraffe to Ski Written by: Viviane Elbee Illustrated by: Danni Gowdy Whitman 2018 Suitable for ages: 4-8 Themes/topics: skiing, learning something new Opening: Uh-oh. It’s snowing and your giraffe wants you to teach … More Teach Your Giraffe to Ski
Having experienced loved ones struggling with memory loss in my own family, Jessie Oliveros’ debut picture book, THE REMEMBER BALLOONS, really touched my heart. It’s clear that this story came straight from her own experience, but how does a writer convey an abstract concept like memory loss and make it comprehensible to children? Thank … More Mining for Heart: “The Metaphor” by Jessie Oliveros
Happy Perfect Picture Book Friday! Here’s one of my new favorites that’s layered with fun. Title: Douglas, You’re a Genius! Written and illustrated by: Ged Adamson Schwartz and Wade 2018 Suitable for ages: 3-7 Themes/topics: STEM, ingenuity, cooperation, perseverance Opening: Nancy and Douglas were playing ball in the backyard, when Nancy hit one too hard. … More Douglas, You’re a Genius!
Beth Anderson, Children's Writer 