Houdini’s Library
Yes, Houdini was a magician and an escape artist. He was world famous. But that’s not what this book is about. Harry Houdini was a reader.
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Although You’re No Longer a Kid
Why does a children’s picture book have so much pull on me, a senior? Because I’ve never stopped reading and loving picture books.
A Forest Begins Anew
In a world that craves understanding, there’s a book for that. This is one of those books. The finest kind.
Resistance
It's vital to remember the books published in the recent past that will help children and teens learn about, understand, and process their own calling to be a part of the resistance.
Long Road to the Circus
When I do my weekly storytime, I like to plan for the adults the kids bring with them, many of whom look like they need storytime more than the kids.
How Does Your Garden Grow?
To instill or nurture an interest in gardening, five Caldecott Honor books feature the wonders that gardens hold as places providing sustenance, restoration, and a sense of mystery.
Necessary Color
In this essay, Candice Ransom reminds us of the potent smell of crayons and our need for color, a source for healing.
A Year Without Home
In a world that craves understanding, there’s a book for that. This is one of those books. The finest kind.
The Power of WE
In Minneapolis as we write this post the power of community is strong, both in standing up to ICE and also in protecting and helping all our neighbors.
Snowshoe Kate and the Hospital Built for Pennies
I love true stories about people who do big things in unexpected ways. Right now, I think we all need to realize our actions, no matter how local, can cause big ripples.
The Science and Art of Literacy Teaching and Learning: Part One
I’ve come to realize that the “art” of teaching literacy simply isn’t enough for kids who need a more systematic and structured foundation to “crack the code.”
Cuddly Companions Can Hold Our Heartaches and Happiness
Did you have a beloved stuffie or doll—one you hung onto no matter how many years passed? These books share stories of these comfort animals.
Jolene Gutiérrez and Elizabeth Weiss Verdick
Two simpatico authors, Jolene Gutiérrez and Elizabeth Weiss Verdick, interview each other about writing picture books with neurodivergent characters.
Curiouser and Curiouser with Betsy Bowen
I first read about this playground group creation in The New York Times in 2020, and remained curious about how it went.