Have You Read This Book Before?

I'm in the midst of author visits with a wonderful 2nd grade class in Brooklyn, NY, through Behind the Book.

This last Friday as I read my book, "Not Afraid of Dogs" to the class, one boy piped up, "Have you read this book before?"

I laughed and said, "Yes, I have."

Like many classes, the student were impressed that I didn't have to look at the words very often as I read the book. Usually, a student asks me if I've memorized the book. : ))

I love working with kids!

Missing France

Here I am at Versailles

I'm missing France these days...like I miss my family.

It's funny that one can miss a place so much having only been there once.

It makes senses though.  There are people that we feel love for on sight. Like I did my friend, Caroline, who now lives in France.

Maybe I have a strong love for France because I connect it with her, her darling daughter, Jasmine, and lovely husband, Jerome...and the amazing time I had living life with them for several weeks.

Whatever the reason. I long to return. And, remember that feelings like these define us...and usually when we have feelings so strong...we do what it takes to soothe them.

Guess I'd better learn more French. ; ))

The Most Perfect Spot - Read of the Week

I discovered this charming picture book, "The Most Perfect Spot" by Diane Goode at my local used bookstore.

The artwork is thoroughly enchanting. The details in the illustrations are guaranteed to spur discussions with your young read aloud partner.

It's a funny and sweet story about a mother and son searching for the most perfect spot to have a picnic and all the challenges that get in their way.

The story is clear, fun and sweet. My favorite part is that the illustrations tell a second story about a little dog.

The story made me laugh, 'ahhh,' and I must admit, get a little teary with joy at the end.

Check it out!

Rainy Days, Books, and Cookies

My Cousin, Grant, Myself, and my sister, Jennifer

Reading in bed is one of my favorite activities.

Today, it rained all day in New York City...all I could think about was getting back into bed and reading...and cookies.



If you're looking for a great book to read and discuss in bed with the kids in your life...try, "Be Nice to Spiders" by Margaret Bloy Graham.

This book turned my life around. After reading it, I was never afraid of spiders again. 

It's a very sweet book that brings home the message that spiders have a very important purpose. 

Happy reading!

New Month - Fresh Start

"A Month that Ends
with Halloween is Special"

I love new months.

Of course, I also love new days, years, decades, centuries, hours, and so on.

It's always the beginning of something. A fresh start.

Today, I've already organized my desk and files, written my goals for the month, eaten all the leftover pumpkin bread, hung new artwork and photos, written 'thank yous' to the wonderful people who made KidLitCon possible this year....

And, I just drew from a hat the winner of September's drawing for "Steal Like an Artist": Jennifer Mead. Jennifer will be receiving her free book in the mail...this week! Woohoo!

Now, to spend the rest of my day completing the new book dummy for "Turtles Can't Race." *One of my big goals for the day.

Have your best October ever! 
I know I will.