Growing Confident Readers
5 Simple Ways to Encourage Reluctant Readers Without Pressure
If your child—or student—groans when it’s time to read, you’re not alone. Many kids labeled as “reluctant readers” aren’t struggling with ability at all. They’re struggling with pressure. The good news? Encouraging a love of reading doesn’t require rigid programs, forced book reports, or nightly battles. In fact, the most effective strategies are often the gentlest … Read more
How Picture Books Build Confidence in Early Readers
Confidence is one of the most important skills a child can develop—and it plays a huge role in learning to read. For children ages 4–8, confidence often determines whether reading feels exciting or overwhelming. That’s where picture books come in. Picture books aren’t just tools for learning letters and sounds. They help children see themselves … Read more
Why Books Make the Best Gift for Children
If you’ve ever watched a child open a book for the first time, you’ve seen it—the spark of curiosity, the widening eyes, the small smile that grows as they realize this gift isn’t just one story … it’s an adventure.As a picture book author, I’ve seen firsthand how children’s books create lasting memories, build confidence, and help young … Read more
Picture Book Spotlight: Oslo’s Surprise Adventure
I always love featuring books that entertain and educate … and when they are written by one of my dear kid lit friends, that makes it even more enjoyable! Author Liliana Tommasini and I met at Miriam Laundry’s Believe Conference in Canada last fall … and what a wonderful event for picture book authors. When … Read more
Two Wins for Wiley: Readers Questions
When I sat down to write Two Wins for Wiley, I had no idea how many questions it would raise — not just for me as the writer, but for readers as well. Some of you have reached out with thoughts. Others have sat with the story and drawn your own interpretations, which is one of … Read more
Readers Questions About Gertie Saves the Day
When I first sat down to write Gertie Saves the Day, I didn’t plan on creating a character that children and adults would fall in love with—but that’s exactly what happened. Gertie is out in the world now, and every time someone finishes the book and reaches out, I’m reminded how many different ways readers connect … Read more
A Letter to My Readers
Fall means it is time for brilliant colored leaves in shades of red, orange, yellow, and purple. It’s time for the sweet and warm smell of cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and hot apple cider. And pumpkins, bright orange pumpkins in all sizes. For me, it is also time for a fall refresh for this blog! Hello, … Read more
Writing A Query Letter That Gets Attention
If you are like me you have spent endless hours writing the perfect picture book manuscript. You have had your story critiqued and professionally edited. Now you are ready to take the next big step—finding a literary agent— by writing a query letter that gets attention. But what exactly does that mean? Think of your … Read more
My Greatest Hits of 2025: A Year in Review
As 2025 winds down, I’ve taken a moment to look back at the posts that connected most deeply with readers this year. Whether you’re here for children’s book recommendations, inspiration for young readers, behind-the-scenes peeks into my stories, or tips for fellow writers—thank you for being part of this growing community. Here are the standout … Read more