I Love to Write Day

November 15th is I Love to Write Day. It is a day for people of all ages spend time writing. You can write a poem, a love letter, a greeting card, an essay, a short story, start a novel, finish a novel … the possibilities are endless. John Riddle, started I Love to Write Day … Read more

Happy 2nd Birthday Gertie!

As a former teacher, I believe that there is a lesson in most things. The lessons I have learned from Gertie Saves the Day could fill a notebook or two. Hard as it is to believe, it has been two years since Gertie Saves the Day was published. Happy 2nd Birthday Gertie! My launch date was September 8th and … Read more

A Student’s Guide to Interviewing Authors

Why am I writing a Student’s Guide to Interviewing Authors? One of my all-time favorite children’s book authors was Tomie dePaola. I loved reading his books to my third graders. Strega Nona and Big Anthony and the Pasta Pot were two of our favorites. The more I read his books to my students, the more questions the children had that … Read more

Setting Achievable Writing Goals

Setting achievable writing goals is an effective strategy for most writers. Writing a book, whether a novel, memoir or children’s book is a difficult task. That’s why authors set writing goals. Authors often set daily, monthly and yearly goals that help them stay on track with outlining, drafting editing and revising their writing.  In my … Read more

Why Children’s Book Week Is Important

Children’s Book Week is an annual celebration of children’s books and reading. Since 1919, it is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the country. This year it is celebrating its 101st anniversary of spreading the joy of reading. Inspire children to read during this week by sharing and recommending your favorite picture books. Your influence … Read more

Writer’s Notebooks Outside of the Classroom

Writer’s Notebook The concept of a writer’s notebook is simple:  All children need is a blank notebook and a pencil or pen. Children write or draw in their notebook, for at least a few minutes each and every day. It is an activity that encourages writing practice and nurtures creativity. A writer’s notebook removes the … Read more