To me October is all about celebrating the many blessings we encounter partly because growing up in Canada, the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday always fell on the second Monday in October. So once October arrives, I naturally begin recounting the many splendid things I'm grateful for and this month I've much to be thankful for.

Lindsey Lane

I'm happy to announce that the incredibly compassionate, kind, and talented children's and young adult author Lindsey Lane has joined the Booking Biz family. Lindsey and I have been secretly working together since June 2014, and I'm thrilled to welcome her into the fold. There are many things I admire about Lindsey; I could go on and on about her evocative writing that emotes emotion after emotion on the page. I could go on and on about her spirit and how being in her presence makes you a better person. And I could go on and on about her work ethic and passion for the craft of writing. She gives herself completely to her book projects and it shows.

Lindsey is the author of the award-winning picture book (Clarion) and iTunes app (PicPocket) Snuggle Mountain, which was named Best Children’s Book of 2004 by Bank Street College of Education. According to Publisher's Weekly her debut young adult novel Evidence of Things Not Seen (Farrar Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers, 2014) is "a gripping and genre-bending mosaic centered around the sudden disappearance of physics-obsessed high school junior Tommy Smythe.”

Speaking about incredibly passionate, kind, and talented children's and young adult authors, Cynthia Leitich Smith is hosting me on her well-read and informational kid-lit writing blog Cynsations today with my guest post on "Founding a Children's-YA Author & Illustrator Booking Agency," and I'm honored to be a contributor. Thank you, Cynthia.

Cynthia Leitich Smith and I at the Texas Book Festival (2013)

This coming Saturday, Oct 25th at 10am in the Family Life Center, I'll be moderating the Grandfather Gandhi panel with peacemaker Arun Gandhi and children's and young adult author Bethany Hegedus at the Texas Book Festival 2014. This year's line-up boasts 280+ authors, the largest in the festival's history. Author friend Greg Leitich Smith has put together a list of scheduled children's and young adult author panels on his blog. Click HERE to view. Thanks, Greg!

And I'd be remiss to say that I'm not in a state of bliss about the fact that my agent Erzsi Deak will be in town to read her book Pumpkin Time! illustrated by Doug Cushman at the Texas Book Festival and to reconnect with some of her Texas chicks from Hen & Ink Literary.

If you live locally, please come out and celebrate Texas Book Festival 2014 and be a part of this magnificent literature event that brings authors and families together at the Austin Capital and adjacent grounds. It's two days (Oct. 25-26, 2014) of readings, panels, children's activities, food, live music, and hundreds of exhibitors. The Texas Book Festival supports Texas libraries and literacy!

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I write reviews for children's books for many reasons.

One, I know what it feels like to discover a gem of a book you haven't heard about or seen before and I want to share the magic of that discovery with other readers.

Two, I think writing children's book reviews is another tool a writer can use to educate themselves on the craft of writing. You learn so much when you examine a book with a reviewer's eye. With picture books, you focus on the blend of art and text and you look to see how the story is extended through the illustrations. You examine the text for its musicality, rhythm, cadence, and patterns. Is it fun to read? Does the story engage? Then surprise you at the end?

And three, I write children's reviews because I LOVE language and I LOVE story.

So on that note hop on over to ReaderKidZ and read my review of On the Wing by David Elliott and Becca Stadtlander (Candlewick, 2014) HERE.

Enjoy the incredible art by Becca Stadtlander in the book trailer!

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Every year in the United States the National PTA sponsors PTA Teacher Appreciation Week. It's an opportunity for us parents to thank the many teachers, administrators, and support staff that educate our children and enrich their lives. For the 2014-15 school year, the PTA Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4-8, 2015. It's never too early to start thinking about ideas and that's why I've put together the Pumpkin Time! Teacher/Librarian Appreciation Gift inspired by the picture book Pumpkin Time! by Erzsi Deak, illustrated by Doug Cushman (Soucebooks, 2014). A book for all seasons!

The Jacket Flap says:

The day the cows strolled down Main Street in fancy hats...Evy didn't notice.

What was Evy doing?

Evy is so focused on watching her garden grow that she misses all the silliness going on around her--pigs dancing, donkeys flying, and sheep having a picnic. But after Evy's spent all year taking care of her garden, everyone's invited to pumpkin time!

Isn't that what teachers do? Take care of our children. Cultivate our children. Nurture our children. I thought this book would serve as a lovely addition to teachers' classrooms and the perfect gift to say thank you no matter what time of year it is.

Pumpkin Time! Teacher/Librarian Appreciation Gift

Supplies you will need:

Picture book Pumpkin Time! by Erzsi Deak and Doug Cushman

Cardstock

Scissors and 1/2 inch hole punch

Twine

See-thru plastic wrap

Any kind of vegetable or plant seeds

Gardening gloves

Gardening shovel or rake

Plant stand or pot

Step 1. Using your computer or handwrite "Teachers plant the seeds of knowledge that will grow forever" on your card stock. Then cut out your card using scissors and decorate. You can punch a tiny hole in the card and string some twine through. This will allow you to attach the card to the gift.

Cardstock

Decorated Card

Step 2. Roll out some of your see-thru-plastic wrap and assemble your plant stand, gloves, rake, seeds, and picture book in the center of the plastic wrap after you've cut it to the size you need.

Plant stand turned upside down with supplies inside

Seeds, gloves, rake

Step 3. Pull up all four corners and bunch together in the middle. Tie your string around the plastic wrap to secure it. Then attach your card.

Deliver to your favorite teacher or librarian! We appreciate them. We really do!

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It's hard to believe we're into the middle of September already! I hope many of you have had a soft launch re-entering the school year and no major hassles or hang-ups. At our house, it's been an exciting few weeks. Middle school for the almost 12-year-old is cool with the addition of a locker and  having a special space at school to call her own. The 5th-grader loves his new teacher and all the prestige and responsibility that comes with being the "leaders" at the school. I can remember when he was the smallest and youngest back in kindergarten and it's so nice to see him watching out for and making friends with the incoming kindergartners.

Speaking of friends, over at ReaderKidZ, friendship is the theme of the month. They're welcoming parents, educators, librarians back for another year of great books geared to the K-5 crowd. Check out   these two wonderful books mirroring friends who always have each other's back!

Read the ReaderKidZ review HERE for This Orq. (he cave boy.) by award-winning author David Elliott, illustrated by Lori Nichols.

Read the ReaderKidZ review HERE for Maggie and Milo by debut author Juli Brenning, illustrated by Priscilla Burris.

Be certain to check out all the books being reviewed by the talented crew over at ReaderKidZ who volunteer their time to inspire and foster a love of reading in kids K-5.

Happy September!

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The summer is coming to an end but fall is just beginning. I love September. It's the start of a new school year and fresh beginnings.

I've been busy writing, working on publicity campaigns for my clients, and booking author visits. But during that time, I also managed to sneak a day or two off to see some of Texas with the family.  The visit to Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa was so memorable that I decided to write about it for Texas Lifestyle Magazine. Click HERE to read "Tuesday Travels: A Wilderness Escape in the Lost Pines Region." It's the perfect place to recapture those last moments of summer and anticipate the arrival of a new season.  There's truly something here for everyone; choose an adventure or relax and rejuvenate!

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Over a week ago, my good friend Donna Bowman Bratton asked if I'd like to take part in a blog tour to talk about my writing process. Donna writes nonfiction and historical fiction for young readers. Her first two nonfiction books for Capstone Press will be released later this year followed by Step Right Up: The Story of Beautiful Jim Key (Lee & Low, 2015) and En Garde! Abraham Lincoln's Dueling Words (Peachtree, TBD). Click HERE to read her post.

Donna Bowman Bratton

After feeling enormously grateful that Donna included me, I thought, wait, how am I going to squeeze another thing onto my already crowded plate. Don't worry she told me, you've got over a week to answer four questions. A whole week to carve out an hour to answer four questions shouldn't be difficult, right? And lately, I've been focusing most of my time on my clients and the Booking Biz, my new children's booking agency, so it'll be good to spend a few hours talking about what makes me write what I write. I shouldn't feel guilty. I can do this.


Well, that all sounded great until a very busy week spilled over into the weekend. But no problem, I still have Sunday to write. We'll go to Celebration Church for the early service, I'll be back home in front of my computer by noon. No problem.

Wait. Problem. The family wants to go to Torchy Taco's after church. Torchy's slogan "Damn Good." They don't lie. Their tacos kick "arriba arriba" butt.

Photo from Torchy Taco's

It's NOT like it's a long sit-down dinner, and I'll need a little sustenance before my fingers hit the keyboard. So no problem. We'll grab a taco (I ordered the Trailer Park) and head on home. But turns out we have to run a few errands along the way home. We have no coffee for Monday. BIG PROBLEM. Absolutely, we need to stop for that. I'm not worried. I'll still be home in plenty of time. But my husband informs me that we must go to Target because the coffee is on sale there. One dollar off. Huge according to Hubby who does all our grocery shopping. Okay, fine I say. Knowing we still have to go to Costco to pick up food for the week.


At Costco, we pick up a watermelon, tomatoes, pineapple, french bread, ground beef, a few other essentials and after the family hits EVERY food station, we're oughta there! On our way home, Hubby suggests we whip into Sports Clips and see if we can get Big Boy a quick hair cut. If there's a line-up, we'll cruise on home. His (Big Boy) cowlick has been driving you crazy. This is true. Sure, I say, tapping at my watch. It's still early.


Of course, there's no line-up and Big Boy gets a handsome hair cut. We're back in the car, and I've only lost another hour. We pull into the driveway and everyone pitches in to unload the car. I slice the watermelon and pineapple. A job my hubby refuses to do. I don't blame him. It's sticky and messy. I also quickly dice up the tomatoes, throw in some basil, garlic, and olive oil. Voila, we've got bruschetta to have with dinner.


I glance at the clock on the stove. It's 2pm. Not a big deal. I'm only an hour or two off my projected writing time. I'm about to head to my desk when the phone rings. I cringe. Do I dare look? Of course, I do. It's my first born. She's been married and out of the house for a year, and we're still adjusting. I grab the phone. "Hi, honey. What's up?"


"Nothing," she says. "We're just on our way over. Will you be around?"


Dramatic pause.


"Mom, are you there?"


"Yes. Uh-uh. Sure. Of course. Come on by."


"Great," she says, "we'll see you in five."


So by now, you know where this is headed. It's headed in the direction of I didn't get started on my blog post until WAAAAAY later. Evening later. Late evening later. Finishing touches on Monday morning later. But better late than never, right? So here goes...


What am I currently working on?


Well, quite a few things to be honest. I just finished reviewing edits with my editor for an article that'll appear in the debut magazine Seasons of South Austin. It should hit news stands mid-May. If you want to learn more about what's happening in Austin's hip zip 78704, check out the debut issue!


I've also been busy marketing my clients' work and securing author visits for them. In March 2014, I launched the Booking Biz, an agency devoted to bringing award-winning children's authors and illustrators to you through school and library visits, conferences and festivals, and book stores and special events. Every day involves the business in some aspect, and I feel grateful to be able to work with such talented people. Not only my clients but the people like me who are passionate about creating lifelong readers and ensuring that children's literature thrives. It's also a joy to know that in some small way, I'm helping to bring authors/illustrators into the lives of children, in a more up close and personal way.


                                                                                                                   

My clients!

While my agent Erzsi Deak of Hen & Ink Literary Studio is busy submitting my fiction and nonfiction picture books, I'm at work on a new picture book project. One that didn't come from an idea I had, but rather one my agent passed along to me after hearing editors talk about their wish lists. I love the challenge this project poses. It's a different process when you haven't come up with the idea yourself. First you have to find the story. A lot of brainstorming and crumpled pages end up in the trash. I'm also playing with a rhyming structure which I haven't done a lot with in the past, so I'm eager to see if I can find the passion and inspiration to create magic on the page.


How does my work differ from others of its genre?


Hmmm. Great question. A little odd for me to answer because my books aren't published, yet. But hopefully what sets my work apart from others of its genres are my characters. Believable. Authentic. Relateable. Endearing. Can't-get-them-out-of-your-head characters.


I think that's what most children's writers strive to do. To create a character so real that the child feels like he knows them personally. That he wants to know everything about them. That he wants to return to them, night after night.


The other thing I think that makes my writing unique is me. My voice. My storytelling. My experiences. My imagination. My heart. My soul. My belief in myself. My belief in humanity. My belief in that every story matters. And every story needs to be told.


Why do I write what I write?

I write on the topics of family, friendship, and making a difference. Themes that were in the books that my grandmother read to me as a child. My hope is that my storytelling and character development brings a uniqueness and freshness that children will respond to. I try to be honest. Real. Funny. And unpredictable.


Today, in a world where poverty is rampant, hardship is common, and success has never been more important in society. I want children to be children. To be entertained by books. To be inspired by books. To forget themselves in books. To find themselves in books.


I write what I write because family, friendship, and making a difference is what's important to me. They've shaped who I am and therefore it's my way of giving back to those people and relationships that have made a difference in my life.

First Book I ever Wrote about Friendships (Approx age Gr 3)

How does my individual writing process work?


It changes every day. Every week. Every year. I think that's one of the things I love about the creative process so much is that I'm still learning. Still figuring out what works and what doesn't. Still fine tuning my process. When something becomes stale, it's time to change things. When something stops working, it's definitely time to change things.


I can tell you this. I write best early in the morning.


I like to write as fast as I can to get a first draft down on paper. I can't really begin to shape a story until I have an ending.


I like to use a dummy book (click here to read a post by Darci Pattison on how to make one) to write out my first draft. A process I adapted to help me figure out what happens next. As I turn the page I ask, "Now what?" It's also very useful to use when you've got a finished picture book but I also find it helpful at the beginning of the process too.


I REVISE endlessly. I've been told by several of my critique partners that I'm a fast reviser. And a great reviser. This is the best part of the process for me. When I can peel back the layers and find the heart of the story. Sometimes during this process, I find I have to abandon a project. It's just not working. The story isn't there. When this happens, it's time to store the manuscript and begin on something new.


I don't write every day now because of my other obligations but I do listen to my muse. I listen to it and myself and return to the page as often as I can get there. And I don't beat myself up because I can't write every day. I try to be kind to myself. I figure that's the best way to help draw the stories out!


Mark your calendars for next week Monday, May 12th when award-winning author David Elliott and authors/illustrators Evan Turk and Andrea Zuill share their creative process on their blogs.





Children’s author David Elliott is the creator of the bestselling series On the Farm, In the Wild, and In the Sea with On the Wing poised to publish in 2014 and the final book in the series In the Past in 2016. His book And Heres to You illustrated by Randy Cecil was a New York Times bestseller and his chapter books like Jeremy Cabbage and The Transmogrification of Roscoe Wizzle are hilarious and full of heart. David's blog can be found here.



Evan Turk is an author, illustrator, and animator working in New York City. He is originally from Colorado, and loves being in nature, traveling, and learning about other cultures through drawing. He is a graduate of Parsons and continues his studies as a member of Dalvero Academy. Grandfather Gandhi is his first picture book. Evan's blog can be found here.



Andrea Zuill is an artist, author, and illustrator living in the San Diego area. Her art work recently appeared at an exhibit at Hamilton Art Galleries and her first picture book Urban Wolf will be published with Schwartz & Wade in 2016. Andrea's blog can be found here.

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As a mother with children who were born premature, The Very Tiny Baby by Sylvie Kantorovitz (Charlesbridge, 2014) caught my attention. It's a topic I've often thought of exploring in a picture book and naturally I was curious to see how this author broached the subject. Brilliantly, in my opinion. Just the right amount of fact, honesty, and story woven together.

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There's been so many exciting things happening for me and my friends in 2014. Today, I'd like to share a special book with you and an incredible journey of inspiration, passion, and perseverance. The book I'm referring to is Grandfather Gandhi, co-authored by my dear friend Bethany Hegedus and Arun Gandhi, illustrated by Evan Turk (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Mar 2014).

I had the privilege of reviewing this book at ReaderKidZ this month and you can read the review and short interview with Bethany by clicking HERE. Additionally, Kirkus Reviews author Laura Jenkins also interviewed Arun, Bethany, and Evan and you can read their conversation HERE.

Arun is the 5th grandson of Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi and the book Grandfather Gandhi chronicles a special time when Arun visited his grandfather at the Sevagram Ashram and the life lessons he discovered that would lead him to choose lamp over lightening.

What I find especially rewarding about this book for children of all ages is its capacity to be a ripple in the pond affecting change around the world especially in how we deal with anger. It's also a true testament to the art form of the picture book. The collaboration between Bethany and Arun and their belief in each other to get the story right. It didn't matter how long the process took, they'd stay the course and see it to fruition. On dark days, when balled up paper and tears mixed, Bethany knew giving up wasn't an option. She knew not to force the story and like our friend and mentor New York Times best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith always says, "When all else fails, begin again."

Then enter Evan Turk, a young up-and-coming illustrator bursting with talent and creative ingenuity. His mixed media collages are nothing short of brilliant, the colors vibrant, the emotions evocative of prayer and peace then switching to anger and lightening. It's visually breathtaking and I foresee many awards in its future.

Over the years, Bethany and I have discussed working together but it wasn't until this book neared its debut before we figured out how the puzzle pieces were going to fit together for us to collaborate. As her booking agent of the Booking Biz, I'm thrilled to help bring this author and this important story into libraries, schools, book stores, literary festivals, and conferences. I'm also honored to be representing the award-winning author/illustrator Don Tate and award-winning author Dianne de Las Casas. I'm a staunch admirer of their work and their work ethic and how they live their life and spread joy.

With the first quarter of 2014 underway, I'm excited with this new business venture, the possibilities on the horizon with my own picture book projects, and continuing to be an advocate for children's literature.

Pick up a book and read to a child today, inspire a life-long reader!

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In celebration of Black History Month I reviewed the book Under the Freedom Tree by Susan VanHecke, illustrations by London Ladd (Charlesbridge, 2014).

Peek from my ReaderKidZ review: "Under the Freedom Tree tells the story of three runaway Confederate slaves who steal away under night’s blanket of protection and row their weathered skiff to the Union side. They’re seeking freedom, a chance to build a life for themselves, but if they’re caught, “Shackles. The whip. Sold downriver. Or worse...”

Click HERE to read my full review at ReaderKidZ and to hear what the author and illustrator had to say about how this story came to be, and why they think it's important for young people to know this story.

Also last year, I interviewed illustrator Don Tate at ReaderKidZ about his book The Cart That Carried Martin written by Eve Bunting (Charlesbridge, 2013).

Peek from my ReaderKidZ review: "...Eve Bunting and Don Tate have collaborated to bring us the story about the “humble cart that, not so long ago, carried greatness.” It is a poignant tale that pays tribute to the late reverend and how the American people honored Dr. King..."

Click HERE to read the full review and interview.

On a final note make sure you drop by the Brown Bookshelf as they celebrate twenty-eight days of Black History Month through children's literature.

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Chinese New Year (Jan. 31, 2014) is just around the corner fellow readers and bloggers. May the Year of the Horse fill you with great wealth, long life, and good luck!

Check out my ReaderKidZ review for Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas by Natasha Yim, Illustrated by Grace Zong (Charlesbridge, 2014). Click HERE.

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Author/Illustrator Joan Holub drops by ReaderKidZ to talk about her latest book Little Red Writing, illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Melissa Sweet (Chronicle Books, 2013). Click HERE to read our interview.

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Melissa Stewart drops by ReaderKidZ to talk about her latest book No Monkeys, No Chocolate, co-authored with Allen Young, illustrated by Nicole Wong (Charlesbridge, 2013). Click HERE to read Part I of our interview.

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It's hard to believe fall is knocking on our door again and Halloween is around the corner. Trick or Treat! We're shopping for pumpkins. Are you?

Kids carving pumpkins in 2012

Brainstorming costume ideas. What will we be this year?

2011's costumes with the family

Baking pumpkin chocolate cupcakes, thanks for inspiring us author Cory Putman Oakes (get recipe HERE)!

And naturally, reading scary and sweet books! Today, I highlight two new books to hit library and bookstore shelves and I hope you enjoy them as much as we did!  Just hop on over to ReaderKidZ and read my review "Ode to Halloween!".

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

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Over at ReaderKidZ it's Historical Fiction month, and I couldn't be happier than to review Leah Pileggi's debut novel Prisoner 88 (Charlesbridge, 2013) for their many readers! To read the review click HERE.

Prisoner 88 is one of those novels that will get under your skin. You'll feel for Jake and his predicament. The ten-year-old is in jail for killing a man. For killing a man who was trying to harm his father. It's a great example of cause and effect. How life can turn on a dime. How one decision can change your life. One minute your life is flowing in one direction, and in another it's overflowing its banks and taking you into uncharted territory. Pileggi peers deep inside her protagonist and peels back the layers for us. Jake's courage, hope, and unfailing resolve to see the good in people, to make the most of his situation, and to carve a new path for his future are nothing short of inspirational. Prisoner 88 is unputdownable and unforgettable.

Make sure you check out Odette's Secrets by Maryann Macdonald (Bloomsbury, 2013) too. It's about a young Jewish girl surviving World War II in France. Click HERE to read an interview with the author.

Check in at ReaderKidZ throughout the month of October for many more great books, resources, reviews, interviews, and activities surrounding the theme of Historical Fiction!

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Today, I'm really excited because the interview with my buddy Don Tate is live at ReaderKidZ, and he's shared his views and emotions with young readers about illustrating his latest book The Cart That Carried Martin written by Eve Bunting (Charlesbridge, 2013). Click HERE to read the interview.

I'm also participating in Nonfiction Monday. Check out Sally's Bookshelf to read reviews on the latest nonfiction books by kidlit bloggers. Sally is reviewing Best Foot Forward by Ingo Arndt (Holiday House, 2013) and she'll host rounding up many more titles worth checking out before this Monday is through.

The Cart That Carried Martin written by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Don Tate (Charlesbridge, 2013). For ages 6-9.

Jacket Flap:

"The cart was old. Nobody wanted it.

There was a faded wooden cart outside Cook's Antiques and Stuff. The store was closed, so two men borrowed it and painted it green. They hitched it to Belle and Ada, the mules chosen to pull it through the streets of Atlanta from the Ebenezer Baptist Church to Morehouse College.

It seemed like an ordinary car pulled by ordinary mules. But it wasn't. The cart carried greatness. It carried the body of Martin Luther King Jr. on the day of his funeral."

Bunting and Tate's collaboration bring us the story about the “humble cart that, not so long ago, carried greatness.” It is a poignant tale that pays tribute to the late reverend and how the American people honored Dr. King. Bunting's words are poetically chosen and rich with emotion and Tate's illustrations create light on a very dark day. Young readers will discover the depth of how Martin Luther King Jr. touched the souls of thousands as they turn the pages in The Cart That Carried Martin and the story behind the borrowed cart.

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Today is more than just a hump day. Today, the Texas Book Festival revealed their children's and young adult author and illustrator lineup for the two day event on October 26 & 27, 2013. I've got goose bumps trailing up and down my arm as many local Austin SCBWI and Texas authors and illustrators are confirmed.

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It's Thursday and we're almost knocking on the door of Labor Day weekend! As promised, I've reviewed several books to celebrate back-to-school over at ReaderKidZ today and I hope you'll stop by and check them out. Click HERE.

Rufus Goes to School by Kim Griswell, illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev (Charlesbridge, 2013)

And don't stop there! ReaderKidZ is geared to fostering a love of reading in the ages K-5 so don't be shy, go ahead and explore the website. You're sure to find new favorites and timeless classics. Haven't you already fallen in love with the pig above and his curlicue tail!

If you're not too busy, drop me a line at ReaderKidZ or comment on my blog and let me know what you think of the recommendations.

Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

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It's August. The end of summer is on its way but you wouldn't know it from the radiating heat here in Texas. Still it's time to get ready for back-to-school. New shoes. New supplies. New books to uncover.

I'm kicking off the last lazy days of summer with The Cat with Seven Names by Tony Johnston, illustrated by Christine Davenier (Charlesbridge, Aug 2013). It's just the kind of book you want to curl up and read when the clouds roll in and cover the plains. I love the watercolor illustrations splashed across the pages in sunburst yellows, sky-blues, and autumn reds and the mellow hues of springtime sprinkled in. Turns out illustrator Davenier lives in my favorite city Paris, France and close to where my agent Erzsi Deak resides, too.

Johnston introduces us to a stray cat who romps through an urban neighborhood making new friends. Every neighbor has a name for the rogue tomcat and almost everyone feeds the full figured male except the homeless man who can't feed himself. Tacos, tuna fish, Big Mac's. Oh, my! Of course, like every good picture book, Johnston saves the best for last when she brings the community together to save the cat and back into the hands of his rightful owner. It's a good thing our hero had nine lives and even better that's he's introduced the neighborhood to new friends. It turns out the homeless man and the old man have a war in common and the senor, mom, daughter, and librarian love books. Who doesn't, right?

The Cat with Seven Names is perfect for all you readers who adore furry friends and those who just want to be entertained with an endearing tail. I mean, tale. For ages 5+.

Also you might want to check out my upcoming post at ReaderKidZ on August, 29th, 2013 for some new back-to-school book reviews. There's going to be something there for everyone!

Happy reading!

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I don't normally blog about young adult literature on my blog NOT because I don't love reading it but because I write for  younger readers who read picture books, chapter books, early readers and middle grade novels. But every once in awhile a book comes along that I feel is a cross-over to those upper elementary readers and a book that is done so well that it just has to be mentioned and that book happens to be debut author Bridget Zinn's Poison (Hyperion, 2013).

Bridget was a librarian, author, and lover of good books and she died far too early at the age of 33 from colon cancer and never got to see youth enjoying her book. But her family, friends, publisher and agent have worked hard to make sure that her dream of being an author and sharing stories didn't die too and released Poison this past spring. To learn more about Bridget and how you can spread the word about her debut YA novel visit her website here:

I must confess I'm not a huge lover of fantasy but I LOVE a good story filled with mischief, mayhem, romance, good vs. evil, and mystery and Poison delivered all of that and then some. So go ahead and read the jacket flap below and meet me on the other side of these paragraphs.

Jacket flap:

Don't you want to run out to your nearest library or book store and grab a copy? I recently had an author friend nominate this book for me for the William C. Morris debut YA award because I feel it's classic, timeless, storytelling at its best!

Bridget Zinn has created a host of diverse and eclectic characters and a world of mystery, romance and intrigue in the Kingdom of Mohr. With page-turning suspense, readers are caught up with Kyra’s struggle to do what’s right and wrestling with the moral dilemma of taking a life to save the lives of many. To make matters worse, the person she must murder is near and dear to her heart, a confident and friend. The only real friend she’s ever known.  Her inner conflict is fraught with additional complexities when she learns a truth about herself that thrusts her into a world of evil and consorting with criminal masterminds. Will this secret destroy her or will it make her stronger? She must learn to trust her instincts and believe in herself and at the same time, open her heart and trust the one man she can never have. Or can she?

Strong themes of loyalty, friendship, good vs evil, trust and believing in yourself are well-developed and the main character’s growth over the course of the novel is satisfying and authentic. Zinn’s debut is fantastical with rich characters and a fast-moving plot.  Antagonists are well-defined and Zinn carries us to the end of the novel by trying to figure out who is really behind the sinister plot to destroy the kingdom of Mohr.  Language and description paint exquisite scenes and this YA is also appropriate for upper elementary ages who are eager to read beyond their reading level.  Zinn shows readers you don’t need sex and racy language to tell a great YA story.

Here's a wonderful article written by Alexis Burgling in Publishers's Weekly Promoting a Late Author's Debut Novel: "Poison" by Bridget Zinn and New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Leitich Smith has a guest post by Bridget's friend and critique partner E. M. Kokie, click here to read it.

Happy summer reading friends!

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It’s not every day I welcome a bestselling author and poet to my blog so I’m beyond thrilled that Liz Garton Scanlon has stopped by to discuss her latest picture book Happy Birthday, Bunny! with us.  She’s a prolific picture book author and some of her highly acclaimed books include All the World, A Sock is a Pocket for Your Toes and Think Big. When she’s not writing or teaching or visiting schools, she’s busy with her girls making art, sharing quiet time with her loving hubby or finding a home for an abandoned animal. Thanks for making time in your busy schedule to chat with us!  

Happy Birthday, Bunny! Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin (Beach Lane Books, Jan 2013) invites readers into an adorable family of rabbits as they celebrate Bunny’s birthday. Birthdays are such a special part of a child’s life, a day they look forward to and treasure all year. What were birthdays like for you as a child? Did you tap into your childhood as you created the story? And how do the Scanlons celebrate birthdays today? Any traditions carried forward from your childhood?

I remember my birthdays being happy when I was little – my mom was very good at making special events extra special. This was back in the day when cakes were homemade, and mine were always beautiful. My birthday is in the spring so one year I even had a bunny cake – maybe that’s where I first felt the tickles of this book!

I’ve always tried to make my daughters’ birthdays special, too. For a number of years, we made piñatas in the weeks leading up to the big day. Often, our papier mache was so strong that not even a dad with a bat could break it open!

But even best-laid birthday plans can go awry. I grew up in the mountains and my “spring” birthday was often interrupted by a late season blizzard. My oldest daughter’s September birthday often sees record-breaking heat. And my youngest daughter was so sick on her 2^nd birthday that we practically had to skip the whole thing. Plus, birthday parties sometimes require patience, etiquette and sharing skills well beyond what the birthday boy or girl is truly up to. I think it’s those things that really inspired this book for me. Birthdays are full of expectation – sometimes so much so that they’re a little overwhelming for the guest of honor.

You skillfully unveil the inquisitive nature of a child in choosing a question and answer structure for this book, did the story start out this way or did it evolve over many drafts? 

Even my very first draft was in question/answer format (though LOTS of the specific questions and answers later changed). I’ve never written a piece using this structure before, but it worked because of that sense of birthday overwhelm I was just talking about. We bring so much energy to birthdays, but little ones – turning 1 or 2 or 4  or 5 – must be SO confused. They don’t know the traditions, the rituals, the rules. What would happen, I wondered, if one of them just asked? And we answered?

Liz and I in 2008 at the Hill Country  Book Festival

At what stage did you see Stephanie Graegin’s art for the book and were there any surprises?

I saw some of Stephanie’s sketches relatively early on and I adored them. But, I was surprised, once the final art came along, how much MORE I loved it with color. Her palette is so rich and creamy, and every inch of the book is awash in color – from the endpapers on. I feel very lucky to have been paired with her and her beautiful work.

Here’s one other fun thing to share about Stephanie’s art. Her animals were so endearing – so perfect – that we changed the title for them! The book was originally called HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BABY! but once those animals came to life, our editor suggested changing it to HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BUNNY! and I’m so glad we did.

You’ve just returned from a fabulous vacation with your family, will this latest adventure spawn any future stories? Can you share a favorite memory from your trip?

We just spent a month traveling around Asia – specifically China, Laos and Thailand. I hope a story might emerge from the experiences we had, but there are no guarantees. I work with a very independent muse J.

There is a really interesting tradition of haggling for goods in developing countries – my kids find it fascinating and a little off-putting. The key is to be gracious but straight-up. The artisans are quite good at balancing those, and with a little practice you can mirror them. I’ll bet there’s a story in there somewhere, don’t you think?

As for a favorite memory, wow. That’s like asking if I have a favorite book. We loved every place we went, everything we did, and nearly all the food we tried!  I think the best part of the whole thing was just being together as a family. Our girls are getting older and are off living their own lives more and more, so to have so many uninterrupted days together (and nights, crammed into little guesthouse dorms!), that’s something I’ll treasure forever.

The book officially released on January 15^th, and a release party is planned, please share all the juicy details for readers.

I’ll be at BookPeople in Austin,Texas, this Saturday, January 26, at 2:00 p.m. Think “birthday party meets storytime”: bunnies, balloons, cake! Come one and all…

Thanks, Liz

Thank you, Carmen, for having me. It’s been a treat!

To read more advice from Liz, click HERE to read highlights from her panel at the 17th Texas Book Festival on the Hen & Ink Literary Studio blog.

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I'm participating in Nonfiction Monday with the breathtaking Monet Paints A Day by Julie Danneburg, illustrated by Caitlin Heimerl (Charlesbridge, 2012). This week's Nonfiction Monday is hosted by Travis Jonker at 100 ScopeNotes.

I was first introduced to Julie Danneburg's work with the book First Day Jitters, illustrated by Judith Dufour Love, the perfect companion for anyone starting school or the first day at a new school! It's delightfully funny and engaging with the ideal surprise ending. If you missed reading it, visit your library for a copy or pick up the book from your favorite indie bookstore. It's worth finding!

So I'm not the least bit surprised to be entertained and carried away in Danneburg's rendition of a day in the life of Claude Monet while he was vacationing in Étretat, France in 1885 with Monet Paints A Day. It's by far one of my favorite nonfiction books of 2012, and I'm happy to see it honored by the 2013 Zolotow Award committee as Highly Commended.

To quote Danneburg from the book, "Like a string of ducklings," we follow Claude Monet and a "gaggle of children" with canvases, paint box and palette as he leaves his hotel ready to paint the day. Danneburg takes us on a journey zigzagging along cliff paths and trudging across a rocky beach to reach the strip of sand where Monet paints The Manneport along with many more scenes. Like the illustrations, her prose is art and the author's note and instructions on painting techniques at the back of the book are rich with educational details, an additional gift for the reader to delve deeper. Sprinkled throughout the book are Monet's letters and words to his fiancee, Alice Hoschedé in which he wrote about his painting progress and his frustrations at capturing the scene before the light changed.

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Congratulations Caryn Caldwell on winning the giveaway for the picture book Oh, Nuts! by Tammi Sauer and Dan Krall!

The book is on its way to be enjoyed by you and your family!!  Hooray!!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the giveaway. If you missed the review of Oh, Nuts! on ReaderKidZ, click HERE to read it.

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Sadly it is the last day of November and that means it's also the last day of Picture Book Month. Sniff. Sniff. So on that note, I'm going to leave you with my ReaderKidZ review of Oh, Nuts! by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Dan Krall (Bloomsbury, 2012). Click HERE to read the review. 

But that's not it. Every day is worth celebrating picture books and if you agree, leave me a comment with your name, favorite picture book, and email address (format: cao at carmenoliver dot com) for a chance to win Oh, Nuts! I'll draw the winner and announce it next Friday, December 7th, 2012 (Eligibility: United States only).

Good luck!

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Each Thanksgiving I'm reminded of all the wonderful things to be thankful for (family, friends, health, community) and this season is no different, but I want to add to my list this year and say I'm thankful for picture books and the joy they brought to me as a child, the joy they've brought to me as a parent/educator and the joys they've brought my children. I'm also thankful for all the writers and illustrators who work tirelessly to craft the best stories for children. Who battle self-doubt and at times sheer frustration to find the right words to tell the best story. Bravo!

To honor the joy I have for the picture book, I want to highlight two posts today. The first one is by my author/illustrator friend and critique partner Don Tate. Click HERE to read the post at PictureBookMonth and the story he uses to illustrate the importance of picture books.

Secondly, I want to highlight a joint writing post with my agent Erzsi Deàk of Hen & Ink Literary Studio as we discussed new and old picture book favorites, many which included bear characters hence the title of the post "A Bearful of Stories." Click HERE to read the post and leave a comment at Hen & Inkblots letting us know your favorite picture book and/or character. Bear vs. Mouse. Penguin vs. Chicken. It'll be fun to tally the results and see which books come out on top!

Blessings of the season to you and your family. Happy reading!

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