Amiguitos!

     THIS is why I do what I do. What a face.
     I had the great pleasure to give back a little bit to an organization that's meant a lot to me lately - the Latin American Association.
     Earlier this summer I shared Paco and the Giant Chile Plant ~ Paco y la planta de chile gigante with campers attending the Amiguitos program, hosted by the LAA. And we had a great time!
     Amiguitos is a two-week Spanish immersion summer program for kids entering kindergarten through 4th grade. Native English-speaking and Spanish-speaking children work and play together to foster friendship and cultural understanding while teaching/learning basic Spanish language skills. Wonderful!
     We learned a Spanish song, I shared Paco and drew Rosebud, and everybody was quizzed on their Spanish and awarded sombreros (English is the first language for most of these kids) - then we sprawled out on the floor and colored. What a great day.
     And the cool thing is I get to do it again for the next session which starts on the 14th. Go to the LAA website to learn more about it.

1st Annual Children's Book Illustrator's Show!

     As part of ArtWalk, opening night for the Decatur Arts Festival, Friday evening was a HUGE success!! Honestly, it surpassed all my expectations (even with the torrential downpour during the first part of the evening).
     With my good friend Liz Conrad's help, the show came together more easily than I thought it would. More illustrators showed up for opening night than I expected. Even our SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) Southern Breeze regional heads drove in to share the experience. Local children's book people came out of the woodwork to join in the celebration, and those who couldn't make it sent good wishes from across the country. The food was delicious (paid for by a grant from the SCBWI), the company was extraordinary, the crowd was consistent and full. All in all, it was a magical evening.
     One thing that quickly became apparent in pulling this event together was it was not my event. Illustrators don't often get to show their work in a fine-art, gallery-like setting, and it was a meaningful experience for everybody involved. So much so, that one artist came in from Mississippi and another from Savannah - this was a big, big deal. How wonderful to be a part of providing that opportunity.

     My friends at Little Shop of Stories (owners Dave Shallengberger and Diane Capriola are pictured above) were so incredibly supportive and appreciative to have another side of children's books displayed in their new space. Even though they are just 500 yards away from their old location, they have a completely new audience overflowing from the Starbucks next door, the Decatur square out front, and a hotel within walking distance. With the gallery space, they can appeal to art lovers as well as young readers and the response was tremendous.
     Something wonderful came out of this show that I never could have expected or planned. Little Shop has wooden stools they use for all kinds of kid events. Well, they made perfect display stands for the books which accompanied each piece of art. And because they were low to the ground, the books were accessible to the children. Kismet stepped in - the show ended up perfectly suited to adults as well as little ones. Scenes like these, of kids reading or parents sharing books with their children, repeated throughout the evening. Could you ask for a better introduction to art? Wow.


     I was thrilled when Jo Kittinger and Donna Bowman, heads of the SCBWI Southern Breeze region, walked into the show. Jo drove all the way in from Birmingham but said she "wouldn't have missed it for the world." Here they are with Peggy Shaw, Senior Editor at Dalmation Press (as well as the publisher of Jo and Donna's forthcoming books!)

     Along with the amazing crowd (this picture doesn't do it justice),

the support from the local children's illustration/writing community was wonderful. Here I am with award-winning author, Deborah Wiles, and Assistant Director of the Georgia Center for the Book, Joe Davich.

     Unfortunately, I didn't get a shot of award-winning illustrator (and illustrator of Danny Schnitzlein's, "The Monster Who Did My Math") Bill Mayer and his wife, Lee, or Vicky Alvear Shecter, author of "Alexander Rocks the World," or Jessica Handler, author of the forthcoming "Invisible Sisters." But here is Mark Braught with Art Director, Don Grant.

     Eight of the ten illustrators made it for opening night - amazing. We got pictures of each with their work. So here's the rundown starting from left and moving right through the show:

     Liz Conrad, the right arm of this operation, was joined by her husband Rick (from whom we "borrowed" the laser level while hanging the show). Liz displayed her cut paper work from "The Snow Ball" and "The Bunny Ball" - adorable board books in a series of many more "Ball" books, perfect for little hands. (Here are Donna, Liz and Rick.)

     Next was Ami Blackford's work from "Quest for the Dragon Stone" and "Quest for the Elfin Elixir" (which I need to add a photograph for). She was bummed she wasn't able to attend.
     Mark Braught's wonderful pastels were next. Mark displayed work from "Cosmo's Moon," "P is for Peach" and "T is for Touchdown."

     And here I was with the space next door. I shared images from "Paco and the Giant Chile Plant ~ Paco y la planta de chile gigante" and "Glitter Girl and the Crazy Cheese."

     Next was Rick Anderson with a prime location on the pillar that divided the display wall. (You can see his piece to Rick Spears' left below.) Unfortunately, he was our other illustrator not able to make it to the show.
     Rick Spear's wonderful creatures from "Tales of the Cryptids" were next. I actually had to grab my signed copy (written by buds Kelly Milner Halls and Roxyanne Young) to make sure I had his index cards placed with the correct cryptids! Rick gave away free monster masks to the kids - those were a hit!

     No surprise here, another BIG hit of the evening were Sarah C. Campbell's photographs from "WolfSnail." Did you know some snails hunt other snails? The kids couldn't get enough of Sarah's books and they actually sold out! She was our other long distance attendee, coming in all the way from Mississippi!

     Daniel Power's was next up with beautiful watercolors from "Take the Lead, George Washington." Daniel is a Professor of Illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and also drove a long way for the show!

     Next door was another watercolorist with a completely different style, Karen Stormer Brooks. She showed art from "Dylan the Eagle-Hearted Chicken," "I Bought A Baby Chicken" (also written by Kelly Milner Halls), and "Piggy Wiglet."

     Karen's husband is also an illustrator. In fact, her entire family joined her for the evening - they were so cute!

     And finally for the finale was Laura Knorr's stunning work from "P is for Pelican," "The Legend of Papa Noel," and "A Isn't for Fox." I just love Laura's color palette and technique - seeing it in person was a treat. She also happens to be the wife of Mark Braught - what an amazingly talented couple!

     Lots of books were sold and signed, and we all got to hang out and get to know each other. Hubbie was with me too, but behind the camera, so please forgive me in all these shots . . .
     Donna, Dave, me and Diane's kids enjoying the books before the crowds showed up . . .

     Me, Karen, and Donna . . .

     And me with my good friends from Spanish class, Mark and Melissa. I was so glad they dropped by!

     Several of us went to a very late dinner to unwind afterwards and talk about our incredible evening. Sage was wonderful, although I was about to fall asleep in my pasta. The hard work was over, the show was a success. I couldn't stop grinning. I couldn't have wished for opening night to go any better - truly. I know Jo got lots more pictures, so I may post links soon.
     Thanks to everybody for helping to make the show such a huge success. Getting prints made, framed and shipped is no small undertaking and all the illustrators came through with shining colors. Thanks to Jo Kittinger and Donna Bowman as well as SCBWI National for funding and moral support. Thanks to the staff of Little Shop of Stories for providing the space and the grace of making it all look easy. Thanks to the City of Decatur, Georgia for providing the perfect excuse to show off our wares. Thanks again to Liz Conrad, who deserves equal credit for putting this on. Big fuzzy hugs to all!
     So that's the report for now. I can't wait for next year and our SECOND annual Illustrator's Show!

You're Invited to the Children's Book Illustrator's Show!

You are cordially invited to the
1st Annual
Children's Book Illustrator's Show
Opening Reception
Friday, May 23rd from 5:00 to 10:00 pm
hosted by
Little Shop of Stories
new location: 133 East Court Square, Downtown Decatur, Georgia - to the right of Starbucks
and the
Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI)
Southern Breeze Region
as part of the
Decatur Arts Festival opening night
ArtWalk

     Come enjoy a leisurely stroll through downtown Decatur as local galleries open their doors to share work by talented local artists.
     At Little Shop of Stories, ten local children's book illustrators will share artwork from some of their latest creations. Featured illustrators include:

     Rick Anderson
     Mark Braught
     Ami Blackford
     Sarah Campbell
     Liz Conrad
     Elizabeth O. Dulemba
     Laura Knorr
     Daniel Powers
     Rick Spears
     Karen Stormer Brooks

     Each piece of art will be accompanied by its corresponding picture book
(available for purchase), and some of the illustrators will be there in person to sign a copy for you. Many of the illustrators will also have limited edition prints available for order so your family can own a treasure from your favorite book.
     The show will remain on display from Friday, May 19th through June 8th, 2008 as well as during the Decatur Arts Festival, May 24th and 25th.
     We hope to see you for what promises to be a magical evening!

Questions?
     Contact Elizabeth O. Dulemba at elizabeth at dulemba dot com, Southern Breeze Illustrator Coordinator, among other things...

SCBWI Southern Breeze Illustrator's Show!

     As some of you know, I recently took on the role of Illustrators' Coordinator for my region of the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators), Southern Breeze. As the first event in this new role, I've created the 1st Annual SCBWI Southern Breeze Children's Book Illustrator's Show! (Your invite is HERE!)
     Of course, before it could happen, we had to actually hang the show. My wonderful, awesomest, fantabuloso friend Liz Conrad helped hang it. Without her, I'd still be curled into a small non-communicative ball somewhere. Neither of us had ever done anything like hang an art show before (remember, we work in books), so we had to figure out a method.

     First, we leaned all the art against the gallery wall (did I mention the show is in a great space in our local independent children's book store, Little Shop of Stories' awesome new location?). We arranged the art trying to mix art styles, medias, frames, etc. That took a while.
     Once we had that figured out, we laid the art on the floor in the arrangement we hoped to duplicate on the wall. (See above.)
     Then we started the hard part, actually hanging the art. Liz bought a great laser level for her hubbie (sorry Rick, the package may be a little ripped up) which became our lifesaver. See Liz with her new toy:
     One by one, we measured and hung each piece. This was tricky. We measured, and marked, and nailed, and leveled. And then we did it all over again for the next piece, and the next piece, and so on...
     Know what happens when two right brained thinkers (whose left brain's have shrunk to the size of prunes from disuse) try to do math? It ain't pretty.
     Hey all you budding artists out there who think you will never use math - trust me, you will!
     Anyhow, the show slowly came to life and I have to say it is stunning. Truly. Styles range from oil paints to pastels, digital to cut paper. Looks go from young and colorful, to mature and deep. All the pieces are already published in currently available picture books which will sit on the stools in front of their corresponding art. Here it is almost finished (two artist's work aren't up yet in this pic).

     Opening night is this Friday during the Decatur Arts Festival opening night ArtWalk I can't wait (and I hope to have recovered by then). (I'll post the actual invite with the list of participating artists next.)

Kick off Fiesta for Paco at Little Shop of Stories!

     Wowsa, I'm still trying to recover. Yesterday was just over the top wonderful! All my favorite people showed up and lots more that I didn't know. We had the kick off party for Paco and the Giant Chile Plant in Little Shop of Stories's shiny new events space which has a lovely balcony overlooking the store. It was truly the first time they used it, so a great test. And wow did it work out well. We set up a table for food (see Liz and Ami in the background?), another for giveaways, and another for me to sign books. (I signed a LOT!) We set up my easel at the end of the space and everybody sprawled on the floor and leaned against the walls. There was plenty of room, but we filled it UP! And I was just having a ball. We handed out sparkly chile stickers and moustaches and gave awaysombreros during the Spanish quiz . . . the kids were thoroughly decked out!!
We played telephone, and limbo! (Kids can get really low!)

     Thanks so much to my good friends at Little Shop of Stories for hosting the party and being so supportive of my career. I moved to Atlanta almost the same weekend they opened, and they have had my back from the start. (Here's Diane with her daughter. The mustachio'd amigas!)
     Thanks so much to my family and good friends who came to support me. I am a lucky, lucky girl to have such fun and beautiful people in my life. I was feeling way loved - you guys ROCK!!

     Here I am with Mark and Raquel, friends from Spanish class, and Rosebud the vaca who turned out orange this time!
     So, Paco and the Giant Chile Plant has been properly introduced to the world. The story is a blast to read (thank you author Keith Polette!) and a wonderful teaching tool as well. It's also been a project that finally gave me an excuse to learn Spanish which has tied me in with the Latin community here in Atlanta in a way which I will forever appreciate.
     I know being published is an enormous milestone in itself, but sometimes a particular book can change your life too. Paco has done that for me and I am exceedingly proud of it and thankful for the opportunities it has opened to me. Thanks to Raven Tree Press for asking me to illustrate such a special, special book. (Could I smile any bigger?)

     So Paco, meet the world! Let's see how you do!

The Reading Tree loves Paco!

     My second visit today was to the new independent children's bookstore in Alpharetta, The Reading Tree. You have stopped by, right? It looks straight out of "You've Got Mail" - warm fuzzies all over.
     And I got a bonus, Stacey Kaye, the author of the ParentSmart series (which I illustrated and which comes out in June) stopped by with her entire family - that's her standing to the left in the background. (Watch a great TV interview with Stacey as she talks about the new books - click here.) Her daughters sat in front, and what cuties - they made great side-kicks!
     Turns out the slightly older kids love helping me draw the shapes just as much as the younger ones. And with the older kids, we get to play telephone.
     The kids chose green for Rosebud this time, so truly, she has become a cow of a different color . . . many different colors. And I remembered her ears this time.
     Thanks to my friends Cindy and Martha (feel better soon!) for inviting me for my first book signing in your wonderful new store!!

Barnes & Noble - Northpoint and Paco!

     And the festivities continue! Today I had two book signings - the first at the Barnes & Noble in Alpharetta. Can I tell you how happy it makes me to walk in and see stacks and stacks of my books? I'm suddenly feeling prolific or something!
     And they had a stack of my first picture The Prince's Diary on the main display wall . . . without coaxing. They didn't realize that was my book too! (Obviously it's selling well - woohoo!)
     Of course, it's all about the kids - and there was a gang of 'em! The little ones love to help me draw the shapes we'll use to draw Rosebud the vaca. (Who ended up purple this time . . . oh, and sans ears - oops!)
     Thanks to Suzanne and Michelle for the warm welcome and for taking this great picture - can you find me buried in all those tater tots?

Paco Fiestas (Parties) - Woohoo!

     I am going to be way busy this week with LOTS of speaking engagements and parties (rough life, I know). But add these to my regular work, and I'm gonna be one busy gal!
     What's going on? Glad you asked! *ahem*
     May kicks off Latino Book Month and there are lots of ways to celebrate all things Latino!!

Wednesday, April 30th, 4:00pm: Celebrate El dia de los niños ~ el dia de los libros at the Dekalb Public library with me, Paco, and a Mariachi Band!

Thursday, May 1st, 10:00am: Mami y Yo at the Latin American Association.

Saturday, May 3rd, 10:00am: Barnes & Noble Northpoint (Alpharetta, Georgia) - a pre-Cinco de Mayo Party with Paco!

Saturday, May 3rd, 1:00pm: The Reading Tree (Alpharetta, Georgia) - storytime with Paco!

and the biggie...
Sunday, May 4th, 3:00pm: Kick Off Fiesta for Paco!! at Little Shop of Stories NEW location, still on the Decatur Square just east of Atlanta, Georgia, now to the right of Starbucks. We'll have Latino music, food, games and giveaways, so it will be a great segue into Cinco de Mayo! View the full invitation HERE.

If you're nearby, I hope you'll drop by!

Cedar Valley Arts Festival

     I've just returned from what I've added to my top ten list of speaking engagements. If you are an author or illustrator and you are ever asked to speak at the Cedar Valley Arts Festival in Cedartown, Georgia in Polk County - GO. But look up two words in the dictionary first: family and community. Cedartown is included in both their definitions. A wrong turn ended up taking me right down the entire length of main street, and I couldn't have imagined a more perfect little town - pure Americana.
     The Arts Festival was set up in a lovely, recently renovated, and well maintained park filled with tall trees, cool shade, and a winding walking path that led me in a circle through just enough booths filled with interesting things for everybody to enjoy. Families were everywhere, some playing catch in the central area, others supporting their children in the chorus or dance routines. And all the support was overlapping because this is a small town where everybody knows everybody – the comeraderie and casual ease which exists in an atmosphere like that was obvious. There is a saying that it takes a village to raise a child, and Cedartown definitely has that village feel.
     The stage was set in the middle of the new water fountain (turned off for the occassion) and surrounded by ampitheater-like seating. The pictures don't do it or the crowd justice - there were tons of people standing under trees all around the stage. And as my presentation went on, the crowd increased exponentially. I wore the sombrero for shade - although I don't know why hats are thought to keep you cool! I read Paco with all its fun voices. We played telephone, which worked this time! (Paco is an adaptation of Jack and the Beanstalk, and I talk about how stories change as they are handed down from teller to teller.) I quizzed the children on the Spanish words introduced in Paco and gave away sombreros and maracas. And then we drew Rosebud, pink this time, in all her vaca glory.
     I loved sharing Paco with this crowd, especially since 47% of the town's population is now Latino. And they have been embraced by their community. The schools are eagerly rising to meet the needs of their Latino students and gushed about what a perfect fit Paco was for their students.
     Smiles were everywhere and everybody was so gracious. It was such an enjoyable day, I didn't want to leave. But home was an hour and a half away and my doggies awaited. I wish I could have stayed much, much longer.
     Thanks to Ahren Lee for inviting me, Kris of the Rome Barnes & Noble who so generously ordered a ton of my books, and to all the volunteers of which there were many, especially those from the Cedartown Junior Service League. Any time you want me back - I'm there with bells on.

Alabama Book Festival - Roundup

     I'm back - what a fun book festival that was! And despite poor weather forecasts, it couldn't have been more beautiful.
     The Alabama Book Festival is held in Montgomery, in Old Alabama Town every year. Old Town is a collection of Antebellum houses, buildings and cabins which have been restored to their original glory. There are some true gems in the collection, and they make for charming venues to be steeped in southern literature. Thanks to Jay Lamar and Nancy Griggs for inviting me and putting together such a fabulous affair. I drank sweet iced tea, wore a hat (okay, a sombrero), and felt my southern roots down to my toes.

     I arrived Friday to participate in a get together for all the authors and illustrator (me) in the historic Young House Restaurant, where the children's book people found each other immediately. I had the great pleasure of hanging out with R.A. Nelson ("Teach Me"), Jay Asher ("13 Reasons Why"), and Loretta Ellsworth ("In Search of Mockingbird") quite a bit. In fact, Loretta and her sister Monica were staying at my hotel, so we got to spend some great time together. (They got more pics which I'll post later if our eyes aren't closed in them . . . ) I also met Jennifer Echols ("Major Crush") and got to hang out with friend Deborah Wiles ("Each Little Bird That Sings") for all of five minutes! Honestly, I think this is what I enjoy most about these events - the chance to spend time with fellow creators.
     Or maybe it's the chance to truly connect with a child.
     After my gig at 11:00 (on what had to be the cutest stage ever in front of the old print shop), I gave a mini-drawing lesson on how to draw "Rosebud" - the vaca (cow) from "Paco and the Giant Chile Plant." I had about a dozen "students" who all did a great job. The little girl in the picture is Lauren - she got to keep the cow I drew, bought a book for me to sign, and gave me a big hug before she left. Things like that make you feel so, so good.
     The drive from Atlanta wasn't bad either - just over two hours, and it gave me the chance to enjoy "Dragon's Keep" by Janet Lee Carey on audio all the way down and back. I still have a bit left to listen to, so I need another trip. Wait, I have one! I'm off to the Cedar Valley Arts Festival next weekend - hope to see you there!

Alabama Book Festival!

Well, I'm here in Montgomery. I speak tomorrow at the Alabama Book Festival - children's stage, 11:00am (I think). If you're in the neighborhood, I sure hope you'll stop by and say hello! I'll blog thoroughly upon my return.

Nuestra Vida and Univision 34!

     Recently, I had the great pleasure of reading "Paco and the Giant Chile Plant ~ Paco y la planta de chile gigante" for the first time to an all Latino audience! It took place at the Chamblee Library and was part of the Nuestra Vida program hosted by Univision 34 here in Atlanta. It was also the first time I truly tested my new Spanish skills.
     I've been taking lessons at the Latin American Association for over a year now, and the teachers, staff, and friends I have made there have become such an enormous part of my life, I actually dedicated Paco to them (and my husband of course).
     But even with all my studying, I am nowhere near fluent, so I was very nervous. However, as usual with events like this, it quickly becomes all about the kids and their families and I leave my nerves behind.
     And it was about families. Nuestra Vida had become a big event in the lives of the families attending, a day to spend time together (not just an excuse to keep the kids busy).
     They all loved Paco and laughed in all the right places - it's actually a really fun book to read aloud what with all the different characters and exclamations. They "oohed" over my demonstration drawing . . . or maybe I should say "mooed" - I chose to draw the cow which I have named Rosebud. And they were incredibly appreciative when we gave away the drawing and a copy of Paco. Here I am with the family that won the book - they were such sweet people and their oldest daughter was quite the budding artista.
     And even though most of the kids' first language was English, their parents' first language was Spanish, so I ended up speaking a lot of it. They were very patient with me, and I only received the "what the heck are you talking about" look twice, so I thought I did alright.
     The most exciting thing about the event was at the end. We handed out coloring pages and word find puzzles ("Sopa de palabras"). I about cried when I looked up from all the kids busy coloring to see all their parents concentrating on the word find puzzle. I made it bilingual and had never thought of it as an actual literacy tool, but there it was. Wow.
     (Download the coloring pages and word find puzzles yourself from my Paco activity page.)

     SOAP BOX:
     I think we sometimes forget what a rich mix of people it takes to make America - the America I am so proud of. Especially in a city the size of Atlanta, there are so many different cultures and backgrounds, I am thrilled to be tapped into one small portion of that mix - it makes my city and my life so much more meaningful and interesting. And I hope, in my little way, that by sharing my love for the diversity and different ideas people bring to our country that they feel just a little bit more welcome.
     Why? Because, I come from immigrants too. Granted, from way back, as does my husband (3rd generation Polish), and most Americans for that matter. But so many people were and are so desperate to fit it, and move beyond societal prejudices, they slough off their cultures when they arrive. My maiden name is Oberholtzer (the "O." in my name). It's an incredibly ethnic name with NO history or tradition attached (beyond a town in Bavaria where we think the name was derived). I so wish my family had held onto our culture. It was a part of my identity to which I now have no connection. Of course, I'm also part English, Scottish, maybe a bit Cherokee, and who knows what else. But again, with no real connections. How sad.
     I hope that by showing my appreciation for the cultures coming into our country now, people will remain proud of them and realize what a treasure they bring, and keep them. We are a melting pot after all, and I find melting pots much, much more interesting than the alternative.
     OFF SOAP BOX. You may now return to your regularly scheduled blog...

Talk at SCAD Atlanta

     So, Monday I was a guest speaker at SCAD (Savannah College of Art & Design - Atlanta campus). I love talking to college students. They're about to hit the world running and they need real, practical advise on how to do it. Of that, I have plenty. Of course, I usually share way more information than they could ever possibly absorb in one sitting, but I include hand-outs for them to review later (including links to all my favorite online communities - so watch for them).
     The cool thing about SCAD is they are really pushing the international scope of children's illustration and becoming quite respected around the world. I told you about the Teatrio exhibit they hosted recently. Well, Julie Mueller Brown, illustration professor and my kind hostess on Monday, is incredibly knowledgeable about what's going on internationally and is very tied into the scene at the Bologna Children's Book Fair. She pulled out some samples that made my jaw drop and I wish I could take one of her classes just to let her expand my mind and broaden my horizons.
     (Look around at the 2007 Gallery of illustrations from Bologna to get an idea what I'm talking about.)
     So what I wonder, dear readers, is where do you see these types of cutting edge illustrations fitting in in the American children's publishing market? I can definitely see the inspiration in some illustrators' work, but what about the whole hog? Any thoughts?

David Wiesner!

     How often do you get to meet one of your heroes? I'm bettin' not very. So what a great time when several writer/illustrator buds and I met for lunch then headed to the Decatur Library to see none other than Flotsam making, Tuesday creatin,' Caldecott winning, David Wiesner!!
     He gave a fantastic talk with images of his early years and influences. I especially enjoyed seeing his thumbnails and models he makes to get proportions just right (you know, like a giant head of broccoli laying in your back yard). What struck me most of all isn't how skilled he is as an illustrator (he's amazing), but how clever he is conceptually. Okay, this is no revelation, but truly, that seems to be the different between being so-so, and so VERY! Conceptually, his work is pure genius. Did you realize that's a reflection of the camera in the fish's eye on the cover of Flotsam? I didn't!
     I was also surprised I only had four books for him to sign (oh, and my book bag). I've bought and given away so many copies of his books over the years, I thought I had more. I suppose that was lucky for him, but he was incredibly gracious and signed everything.
     So here are the gals (in back), Liz Conrad, Ami Blackford, moi, and Joni Goldman (librarian extraordinaire); and in front, da man himself. Nathaniel Lachenmeyer was also with us, but didn't make it into the head-shot.

Springmingle '08 - Roundup!

     It's catch-up day as I reel from my fantabulous weekend at the SCBWI Southern Breeze Springmingle Conference. I've been attending these long enough now, that I look forward to hanging out with my friends (and making new ones) more than anything else. Children's book people are so fun, and nice, and easy - we have a great time!
     I also volunteered quite a bit with this one, although my input was nowhere near the hard work by Jo Kittinger, Donna Bowman, and Robyn Hood Black who somehow manage to make it all look so easy - even when our editor's flights were grounded in New York because of the sudden blizzard. They pulled everything off beautifully. We are so lucky to have them in charge of our region - they keep Southern Breeze vibrant and strong.
     So, on to the embarrassing stuff. I was actually the opening act with my skit, "A Day in the Life of an Illustrator." Yes, I got on stage in my PJs and bunny slippers and acted completely silly. Luckily, I had a side-kick - Dwain Fleming played my FedUPs delivery guy and he was hilarious! (And yes, my skit was documented with photos, and no, I am not going to share. Allow me a sliver of pride please.)
     We have a great new tradition for opening night. Authors or illustrators with new books released in the previous year get five minutes to explain and pitch their latest creation, and then place it's corresponding kite into the collection of Southern Breeze member's published works. This year there were three of us: me (with Paco), Hester Bass (with "So Many Houses"), and Liz Conrad (with "The Witches' Ball," "The Bunny Ball," and "The Turkey Ball").

     Ironic for me was I had to present the dummy I'd made from the printer's proofs for "Paco and the Giant Chile Plant." Paco is so new, my free copies were delivered to my house after I'd already left for the conference. I had them for Saturday though and let Diane of Little Shop of Stories use them for stock since her copies wouldn't arrive until Monday. Amazingly, she almost sold them all and I was signing Paco all weekend - Woohoo! So, while I'd love to share that "cracking open the box, seeing the book for the first time" moment - I can't. It happened at about 11 o'clock at night in an exhausted haze.
     Saturday was filled with keynotes, seminars and critiques. Deborah Wiles proved her complete professionalism with one of the most polished and entertaining keynotes I've seen. Editors Jennifer Wingertzahn (Clarion) and Robin Tordini (Henry Holt) shared their insights into the business and new projects they are excited about. I especially enjoyed Jennifer's writing exercise to take the first line in your story and apply different approaches to it. (We rewrote our sentence with a change in tense, narrative voice, opposite point of view, added alliteration, etc...) Mucho fun! Martha Rago (HarperCollins) shared her obvious passion for design. With my background in graphic design I especially appreciated her images of the printing presses they use, work stations, print check areas, proofs, etc. I've worked with a select few truly talented designers over the years, and their passion for good design is infectious.
     I also had the great pleasure to meet and escort Kathy Landwher and Loraine Joyner of Peachtree Publishing on Saturday. Loraine stuck around for much of the day so we got to know each other a bit, and what a nice, nice person. I imagine working with Peachtree is much like being adopted into a big, happy family.
     I honestly forgot we had more activities on Sunday, so it was bonus time to my mind. After more great hanging out, Vicky Alvear Shecter and I invited Robin and publisher Peggy Shaw (Dalmation) to a true southern lunch at the Crescent Moon Cafe. (We couldn't let Robin's only southern experience be the hotel!)
     So, I finally returned home, exhausted and happy. Sarah Campbell was kind enough to share pictures since I didn't take a one - and what a photographer she is! Check out the gorgeous cover of her new book, "WolfSnails" which comes out this April. She also took what may have to become my new avatar, me with my favorite Marvin the Martian coffe cup. Thanks Sarah!

Kindling Words '08 - Recap

     I’m on the plane (the first of three) returning home. I’m exhausted but anxious to get back to work and apply the inspiration I gained from my weekend in Vermont.
     I’ve found that different conferences have been right at certain times in my career, and this was the perfect time to experience Kindling Words. All in attendance were editors or published authors and illustrators. Many were highly accomplished or even award winners, while others were just starting their journey. But the mutual respect shown to all was noticeable.
     Our kick off book signing at Phoenix Books was a hoot. You could tell an author from a customer by who wore coats (the staff was kind enough to take ours). Children’s book buyer, Natacha Liuzzi, made sure to have several copies of everybody’s books displayed and in stock. And what a crowd! Shoppers bought books and then wandered to find their author or illustrator to sign them. (There was a formal signing area set up, but we couldn’t stop mingling!)

     I’m not sure who’s sitting where (click the image to see it larger), but here’s some of the talented people in this photo or in attendence (I’m down to the right sitting on the floor): Laure Halse Anderson, Sarah Aronson, MJ Auch, Nora Raleigh Baskin, Robin Benjamin, Kathleen Blasi, Jeannie Brett, Robin Brickman, Elise Broach, Marnie Brooks, Tami Lewis Brown, Janet Buell, Janie Bynum, Laurie Calkhoven, Cinda Williams Chima, Jane Cowen-Fletcher, Katie Davis, Mary Delaney, Sarah Dillard, Elizabeth O. Dulemba (me), Michelle Edwards, Marion Eldridge, Elizabeth Falk, Catherine Frank, Donna Freitas, Barbara Garrison, Cecile Goyette, Jamie Harper, Amy Huntington, Alison James, Marthe Jocelyn, Sarah Ketchersid, Cheryl Klein, Michelle Knudsen, Judy Irvin Kuns, Leo Landry, Yolanda LeRoy, Martha Peaslee Levine, Arianne Lewin, Sarah Darer Littman, Gregory Maguire, Kimberly Marcus, Elsa Marston, Wendy Mass, Diane Mayr, Kate Messner, Andrea Murphy, Carol Murray, Denise Ortakales, Ammi-Joan Paquette, Linda Sue Park, Robin Pulver, Susanna Reich, Anita Riggio, Pamela Ross, Leda Schubert, Barbara Seuling,Mark Shulman, Janni Lee Simner, Rebecca Stead, Tanya Lee Stone, Melissa Sweet, Chris Tebbetts, Kyra Teis, Patricia Thomas, Amy Timberlake, Andrea Tompa, Harold Underdown, Nancy Werlin, Stacy Whitman, Vera B. Williams, Ellen Wittlinger, Jane Yolen, and Sara Zarr.
     The conference was held at the Inn at Essex in Essex, Vermont (near Burlington). It’s a sweet, older hotel which doubles as the New England Culinary Institute, so the food was amazing. My bed was big and tall and draped with a down comforter and pillows – so comfortable! And underground tunnels connected the three buildings which formed the estate so you didn’t have to brave the cold and snow if you didn’t feel up to it.
     And wow was it cold and snowy (although the locals said it was nothing). It was beautiful! I flew in over frozen bodies of water, which had me gaping out the plane’s windows like a little kid. I found it ironic how Southern I suddenly felt considering I usually don’t, but there weren’t many of us in attendance (me, Marnie Brooks from NC, and Janie Bynum from TX). But so much of what I saw was so completely outside my normal experience it was hard not to feel foreign. Even the light was different in Vermont. The sun hangs much lower in the sky that far north and casts long sideways shadows early in the day. It’s a beautiful and lucky place to be.
     We dove into our sessions pretty quickly and they were extremely educational. Instead of beginner subjects such as, “Do I need an agent,” and “How do I format my manuscript,” we talked about writing/illustrating method, technique and inspiration. Laurie Halse Anderson (author of the multiple award-winning “Speak”) gave three days of advice on character, scene building, plot, and revision techniques. Linda Sue Park (author of Newbery winning “A Single Shard”) delivered the keynote on Friday. Most interesting between their two presentations was how differently they each work. While I received great tips from both (and noticed some similarities to both in how I work), it helped to know there is no right or wrong method. It’s a matter of discovering what works best for you.
     Vera B. Williams headed the illustrator thread, and as one attendee said, “Vera, you realize we all have a crush on you.” Vera turns 81 Monday and has lived her entire life as an inspired adventure. I believe she is actually a fairy-human and gave her a hug later to check for wings. The most important lesson I learned from her is to play. She doesn’t worry about style or achieving a certain look (although she does shoot for continuity within a project). She’s more about enjoying the process, feeling the paint, relishing in the colors. I believe her books are a success because she is completely in touch with her inner 3-year-old. I don’t know about you, but my earliest memory is about age four. Vera’s memory goes much farther back and the sheer joy of toddlerhood is celebrated in her creations.
     Most enjoyable for the weekend, however, was getting to know my peers. Writers and illustrators are in general a highly intelligent group – everything fascinates us. So conversations came easily and were often wonderfully entertaining. I asked Barbara Seuling about her latest project, and was suddenly learning about the famous torch singer, Jane Froman. I asked Pamela Ross the same question and learned about the Chinook people and Pueblo Indians. I asked my roomie, Sarah Dillard, and was treated to a sneak preview of her forthcoming picture book from Sterling, “Perfectly Arugula.” (It’s wonderful!)
     We also held meetings during “white space” (down time for informal gatherings). Since we all speak the lingo of children’s book publishing, we were able to easily fall into related discussions and share our similar challenges and insecurities concerning our work and careers. I think we all benefitted from hearing about each other’s successes, goals, and obstacles - I know I did.
     One of the wonderful traditions of Kindling Words is the Candlelight reading. Because of the full crowd, a lottery was held to pick 20 readers (allowed 5 minutes each) for the evening. I was lucky enough to be chosen (although my nerves almost failed me when I ended up last to read). I read the first chapter from my new novel in progress, “Copper.” People shared poems (Amy Timberlake cracked me up with her poem on Global Warming!), short stories, and first chapters in all genres. The range was vast and we alternated between tears and laughter.
     Afterwards we headed outside to enjoy a bonfire in the middle of the snow where we had a fantastic time standing together and singing songs. (Stop sniggering – it was fun!) On the way back, I couldn’t resist the urge to make a snow-angel. How often do I get an opportunity like that?
     Overall, it was an amazing weekend. Sarah and I made great roomies. I got to hang with her and Amy Huntington much of the weekend, but we also spread out and tried to meet as many new people as we could. I really hit it off with several and feel I made some new friends. So now I’m anxious to get home, email them, and find out what exciting things they all have going on next.
     Thanks to Marnie Brooks, Tanya Lee Stone, Susanna Reich, and Janie Bynum, for arranging everything; as well as to those who invented the event in the first place, Alison James, Mary Lee Donovan and more, as well as early organizers such as Harold Underdown. I don’t know that I’ll be able to go to Kindling Words every year, but I certainly hope to return soon.

Kindling Words 2008

     I may be a bit silent over the weekend because I'll be in Vermont. Yes, everyone should head to the frigid north in January. This southerner is in for a shock! The forecast predicts a 15° high in Vermont for my trip tomorrow! Brrrrrrr.
     So what is worth braving the arctic tundra? Kindling Words of course!
     Kindling Words is the créme de la créme of writer's/illustrator's conferences held every year at the Inn at Essex. Many NY editors use it as a winter break to relax and rejuvinate for the upcoming year. But I'm going for some intensive writing advice. I'll spend three days learning technique from award winning authors Laurie Halse Anderson (author of the classic, "Speak") and Linda Sue Park (author of the 2002 Newbery Medal for "A Single Shard"). The illustrator's strand is hosted by Grand Dame Vera B. Williams. Can you imagine? It doesn't get any better!
     I'll also be rooming with fellow writer/illustrator, Sarah Dillard. (Cheet-O's and Teen Beat mags rule!)
     Add to that, 40 attendees will kick off the weekend with a book signing at Phoenix Books on Thursday at 4pm. And wow, what company I'll be sharing - take a look! Intimidated? Me? Um, yah, a little bit. Drop by if you're in the area - it promises to be something special.
     I'll try to share a bit while I'm there, but no promises until I get home. Send warm wishes my way!

Eric Rohmann!

     Yet another amazing event at Little Shop of Stories, this time with hugely talented, Caldecott winning Eric Rohmann! And what a nice guy!!! We actually talked about favorite art styles and how he likes to work. He said the story dictates the style he uses, and I so agree. Stories tend to tell you what they need.

Jon Scieszka at Little Shop of Stories!

     Wow, wow, wow. How do they do it? My little indie, Little Shop of Stories, has been bringing in some amazing talent lately!
     Yesterday, I had the great pleasure of meeting Jon Scieszka, talented author and now the first National Ambassador for Young People's Literature! (I blogged about it here.) True to his reputation, he was a super-nice and easy guy.
     And what does he want to do with this new platform he's been given? Encourage kids to read for fun and try to lessen the focus on testing in schools. Several teachers were in attendence and they cheered when they heard this. Go Jon!
     The fun continues Friday with Caldecott winner, Eric Rohmann! (I'll try to get more pics to share.)

     And . . . oh blog followers . . . I have a secret to share. Tell people you heard it here first! Mo Willems, multiple award winning author of the "Pigeon" books and many, many more, will be at Little Shop of Stories the week of April 3rd - date and time to be announced soon. Yup!! Big, big, honkin' big deal! I can't WAIT!!!

Caught Snowflake!

     If you read below, my snowflake, "Give a Little Push," was in the first round of auctions for Robert's Snow.
     LindaBudz was kind enough to leave a comment that she is the "winner" of my snowflake! She blogged about it as well.
     Linda made the highest bid for my snowflake, so this was an expensive "win," but Linda's generosity will go towards funds for the Dana Farber Cancer Research Institute, a highly worthwhile cause.
     Linda, thanks so much for your kind words about my work, but especially for helping raise money to find a cure for cancer. I can't think of a better way to kick off a season of good cheer. My warmest wishes for a happy holiday go out to you, your family, and your new little nephew.
     I'm so pleased my snowflake found a great home.

Barnes & Noble - Northpoint November '07

     I'm way late getting this up, but I had a great time reading to kids at Barnes & Noble Northpoint a few Saturdays ago. Here I'm reading Glitter Girl and the Crazy Cheese: "No, young lady. You come sit down in your chair. You eat all your lunch before you go anywhere." (Hence the grim expression!)
     I know I've talked about this before, but a good bookstore (chain, indie or otherwise) is determined by their people. Cindy at B&N is an amazing advocate and supporter of local authors and illustrators and an amazing hand-seller (she's a pro at putting the right book in the right hands). I have signed more copies of my books at her store than anywhere else - she keeps selling them all!      She says there's no predicting which books children will connect with, but every time she pulls out Glitter Girl, the children edge in closer and their eyes light up - they definitely connect with Glitter Girl.
     I swear, I teared up hearing that! As such, she forever has my loyalty and gratitude.
     In fact, I'll be back next Spring to read my forthcoming picture book, Paco and the Giant Chile Plant ~ Paco y la planta de chile gigante! I'm sure it will be much fun, so if you're in the area, mark your calendar. Or better yet, plug your zip in to BookTour.com and find out which authors are touring in your area at any time!

Robert's Snow Auction Begins Today

     I know I've been blogging about this a lot lately, but it's important. The auction, Robert's Snow, to raise money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, begins today in three installments. My snowflake is available in the first group - check it out. If you don't bid on mine, maybe you'll fall in love with another snowflake. It's all good, because it all goes to raise money for a very important cause. (Click a snowflake to get to the auction.)
     Click on the Robert's Snow poster to the right to read interviews with the illustrators done by bloggers all over the blogosphere or go directly to my interview at sruble's world. You can see my snowflake in progress, here.
     Once again, I want to say how honored I am to participate in such a worthwhile and important cause. Cancer has impacted so many of our lives, let's work to find a cure.

My Snowflake featured at sruble's world today!

     As many of you know, the bloggers at Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast came up with a great way for those who didn't create snowflakes for Robert's Snow to participate in their own way with "Blogging for a Cure."
     Bloggers have been featuring snowflake illustrators in wonderful interviews for weeks now. Today, it's my turn. I've been interviewed by Stephanie Ruble at "sruble's world." She asked some great questions which I had a blast answering. So go check it out!
     Follow the interviews of the other illustrators by clicking the Robert's Snow poster to the right (or go here). I've been updating all the links as they become live.
     And be sure to check out the Robert's Snow website for the important cancer research fund-raising event. Maybe you'll fall in love with a snowflake and help raise money for this worthwhile cause.

An Interview by the National Writing for Children Center

     As an interesting segue to my week at the Muse Online Writer's Conference (unrelated events), Wednesday at 2:00pm cst I will be interviewed by Suzanne Leurience, head of the National Writing for Children Center, for her Book Bites for Kids LIVE radio show at blogtalkradio.com! I'll talk about inexpensive marketing tips to help illustrators break into children's publishing. The show is 30 minutes long and will be archived if you're not able to make the actual LIVE broadcast - but I hope you will. I'm looking forward to some great questions! The number to call during the show is 1-646-716-9239, at 2:00pm central standard time, October 10, 2008..
     Hope to hear you there!

Update: Hear the interview!

Muse Virtual Writer's Conference!

Kicks off today!
I'll be giving a talk about breaking in to children's book illustration Wednesday night and I'll be available to answer questions in the forum all week.
It's too late to sign up this year, but if you didn't know about it, mark your calendar for next year. This is a fantastic, free event and a great new way to use this cyber-universe of ours. I'm thrilled to be a part of it!

Decatur Book Festival '07 - Sunday

     Okay. So, it's Monday morning and I'm still tired from Saturday and Sunday, but wow was it a great weekend!
     I began Sunday at a special SCBWI Southern-Breeze sponsored event at Little Shop of Stories. We were treated to a private breakfast with Melinda Long (author of How I Became A Pirate) and Judy Schachner (author/illustrator of the fantabulous Skippyjon Jones). They shared their work, work habits, and roads to success with us and were, of course, highly entertaining. Several of my fellow Southern-Breezers were there like Robyn Hood Black, Barbara Schneider, new friend Lola Schaefer, Hester Bass even drove all the way in from Huntsville! - we're quite a pack these days. So it was great to hang with friends and talk the biz. What a great kick-off to a great day!
     Here we are being Judy's adoring fans: Lauren Zimet, Me, Diane Z. Shore (thanks for pulling the breakfast together, Diane!), and Liz Conrad.

Here's Me and Liz hanging with Melinda:

And this was such a great pic, I had to include it. It's Lynn Cullen, author of I am Rembrandt's Daughter, and Melinda:

     So Sunday was a work day for me, if you could call it work, as I was MC for the Target children's stage all day. I had the honor of introducing all the stars, which also means I got to hang out with them backstage before they went on - woohoo!
     First was Melinda Long. The kids had a blast saying, "Arrrrr" and "Scurvy Dogs" as she read her pirate books. I'll bet her school visits are so much fun! I also got to meet her awesome husband, Thom. Melinda and I agree the real secret to success in children's publishing is a supportive spouse (here's mine being a ham with the Target dog).
     Next was the illustrator's panel, which I also moderated.
     Side note: Fabulous illustrator, Bill Mayer, stopped by to enjoy the panel too. Look for his latest illustrated work, The Monster Who Did My Math, written by our own Danny Schnitlein, author of one of my favorite books, The Monster Who Ate My Peas - coming soon!
     Obviously, I couldn't get a picture of the illustrator's panel onstage, as I was onstage asking them questions, but here's the gang still glowing from our brilliant affair, Judy Schachner, Chris Raschka, Laura Knorr, Liz Conrad, and me.

     Afterwards, we gathered around a lovely outdoor table in the shade at Sage for lunch and watched the crowds mull by - ahhhh. Well, ahhhh for them. I kept having to bounce up to go introduce the next speakers. Rough life, I know.
     Next were storytellers from The Wren's Nest. They specialize in telling the classic Uncle Remus Tales.
     I then had the enormous honor of introducing the illustrious Holly Black, author of the Spiderwick series (look for the movie coming soon - here's the trailer - chills, eh?). She had an enormous crowd of adoring fans, wow, and then signed books for a gazillion years - the line wound a long, long way.
     In the interim, Peter Kuper shared his new picture book, Theo and the Blue Note, along with his cartoon method for Mad Magazine and his many graphic novels.

     And then, the incredibly energetic and generous Holly Black returned to the stage to talk about her young adult novels, Tithe, Valiant, and Ironside. Honestly, I don't know how she did it. She presented at Dragoncon before coming to DBF and was going back to do yet another presentation that evening. We got to talk quite a bit when she was signing stock back at Little Shop of Stories. Holly is one nice, nice person - I wish we had more time to hang.
     Diane (owner of LSOS) and I ended the day back at Sage where we drank some wine and talked about what a wonderful success the festival was and how great it feels to brin