Welcome back, Vivian Kirkfield! If anyone knows about going HERE to THERE, it’s Vivian who is always on the MOVE herself! Wondering how one picture book can become nine? This has been a time of anthologies and compilations, and here’s Vivian’s take on hers. Vivian is offering the final giveaway of 2020 for this blog … More Behind the Scenes: “Creating a Compilation” by Vivian Kirkfield
166 years ago today, Elizabeth Jennings boarded a streetcar in New York City. She was in a hurry to get to church. But, when the conductor ejected her because of her race, too-late-for-church took a backseat to too-late-for-equality. Seven months later, the young school teacher sat in a Brooklyn courtroom, waiting for the white judge … More 166 years ago today, Elizabeth Jennings boarded a streetcar…
You’ll have to wait until October 13 for the book, but since today is a special day—my dad’s 93rd birthday—it seems a perfect day to share the cover of “SMELLY” KELLY AND HIS SUPER SENSES: HOW JAMES KELLY’S NOSE SAVED THE NEW YORK CITY SUBWAY. Though my father doesn’t have an extraordinary nose, he’s a … More Cover Reveal! “Smelly” Kelly and His Super Senses
Being the 1st is not enough.” I’ve heard these words from editors who probably receive way too many picture book manuscripts about someone who did something first. Authors scramble to uncover inventions and accomplishments, discoveries and honors, breakthroughs and court victories. Being first is commendable and implies individual greatness, but it’s not always interesting, engaging, … More Behind the Scenes: “Being the 1st Is Not Enough”
Go beyond planes, trains, and automobiles! Check out this week’s fascinating “Perfect Picture Book.” Title: The Secret Subway Written by: Shana Corey Illustrated by: Red Nose Studio Schwartz & Wade Books, Random House, 2016, nonfiction Suitable for ages: 4-8 (I would say 5+) Lexile: AD810 Themes/topics: history, New York City, subways, invention Opening: Welcome to … More The Secret Subway
Beth Anderson, Children's Writer 