Category: nonfiction

Behind the Scenes: “The Path to the Perfect Editor” by Lindsay Metcalf

October 30, 2020

Rejections never feel good, but sometimes, they actually serve us well. And Lindsay Metcalf’s post here is a great example. I hope you’ll take a few moments to read this outstanding post that proves that “breaking the rules” and defying traditional book categories can work with the right editor. Thank you, Lindsay for sharing your … More Behind the Scenes: “The Path to the Perfect Editor” by Lindsay Metcalf

Pies from Nowhere

October 16, 2020

Here’s a book I just became aware of and wanted to share as a Perfect Picture Book Friday recommendation. It’s the story of how one person can make a difference, about an unsung heroine, about the people behind the scenes of social change.  Title: Pies from Nowhere: How Georgia Gilmore Sustained the Montgomery Bus Boycott … More Pies from Nowhere

Behind the Scenes: “Working with an Editor from Start to Finish” by Lindsey McDivitt

September 18, 2020

Though working with an editor from start to finish sounds like a dream come true for most of us, the process exposes an author’s first attempts and the very rough beginnings of a manuscript. Here Lindsey McDivitt takes us through her experience of how her new picture book, Truth & Honor: The President Ford Story, … More Behind the Scenes: “Working with an Editor from Start to Finish” by Lindsey McDivitt

Behind the Scenes: “Why Have Faith in a Story” by Laurel Neme

September 4, 2020

We all need a reason to work through the hard parts. Laurel Neme found her reason in those who let her into their story, into what would become The Elephant’s New Shoe.  Laurel is doing a GIVEAWAY of a copy of the book as soon as it’s released October 6. To enter, just leave a … More Behind the Scenes: “Why Have Faith in a Story” by Laurel Neme

Behind the Scenes: “What’s in a Name?” by Jenna Grodzicki

August 14, 2020

Welcome, Jenna Grodzicki, author of WILD STYLE: AMAZING ANIMAL ADORNMENTS! When I first saw the book, my first thought was, great title! And that doesn’t come easy. It’s often the source of much agony for me. Here Jenna gives you a behind the scenes peek at how that title came to be.  AND Jenna is … More Behind the Scenes: “What’s in a Name?” by Jenna Grodzicki

Most Wanted: The Revolutionary Partnership of John Hancock and Samuel Adams

July 25, 2020

I’m popping in with a “perfect picture book” on Saturday. I’ve found a history sister in Sarah Jane Marsh. Her energetic writing brings fascinating detail and humor to the page, bringing to life a nugget from history. And I love that she’s found a way to share historical tales in a longer form of picture … More Most Wanted: The Revolutionary Partnership of John Hancock and Samuel Adams

We Are the Change

June 12, 2020

Here’s an essential picture book for everyone—black and brown and white, young and old, now and forever. A beautiful and powerful collection. Title: We Are the Change, Words of Inspiration from Civil Rights Leaders Written by: Harry Belafonte (introduction) Illustrated by: Selina Alko, Alina Chau, Lisa Congdon, Emily Hughes, Molly Idle, Juana Medina, Innosanto Nagara, … More We Are the Change

Behind the Scenes: “Tackling Difficult Topics” by Amalia Hoffman

June 5, 2020

There’s no denying it – we are living in difficult times. Helping kids make sense of what’s happening in the world isn’t easy. Picture books offer opportunities to process tough topics, see how people responded in times of crisis, and how they persevered with the power of hope. Today in Behind the Scenes, Amalia Hoffman … More Behind the Scenes: “Tackling Difficult Topics” by Amalia Hoffman