Let's Talk Illustrators #13: Hélène Druvert

Almost exactly a year ago I fell in love with Hélène Druvert's first picture book in the Up, Up and Away series, Paris. I'm so excited that Hélène has created a second book in the series (publishing today!) called Mary Poppins. Each book features eight lasercut images amidst printed pages, intricately and intimately detailing a magical story that carry readers through a bustling city.

ROSIE & CRAYON

Do not open Deborah Marcero's gorgeous new picture book Rosie & Crayon unless you're ready for a heart-wrenching, honest tale of a girl and her best canine friend. I mean it. Grab some tissues first. But once you ARE ready, this book will stay with you for a lifetime.

Multicultural Children's Book Day 2017

Today is an exciting day in the children's book world! It's Multicultural Children's Book Day, and that means there are posts all over social media celebrating multiculturalism in children's books. I'm excited to join in this year to talk about Valarie Budayr and Michael Welply's Dragons Are Real, especially because author Valarie Budayr is one of the co-founders of MCBD.

 

RULERS OF THE PLAYGROUND

If Beyond the Pond magically and mysteriously didn't convince you how talented author-illustrator Joseph Kuefler is, his second picture book Rulers of the Playground definitely will. One morning Jonah steps onto the ladder of the playground declares himself the ruler of the land. Everyone agrees to obey Jonah except for Lennox, who decides that she wants to be the ruler of the playground instead. 

If a Tree Falls in the Forest...

The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization claims that an estimated 18 million acres of forest are lost each year due to deforestation. It's not a common topic in children's picture books, but there is an exceptional bunch that handles the subject in a relatable and creative way. Each book highlights how deforestation displaces animals, plants, and indigenous peoples and proves that the endless cycle of violence toward nature begs a need for wider awareness on the topic.

MARGARASH

Margarash, written by Mark Riddle and illustrated by Tim Miller, is unlike any book I've read in a long time. It's quirky, creepy, and impressive in how much adventure and suspense is packed in. At it's heart, Margarash is a folk tale, telling the story of a boy named Collin who collects coins and refuses to listen to his parents about the legendary Margarash, a monster who also collects coins and pulls people deep into the couch should they try to steal them.

Let's Talk Illustrators #12: David Litchfield

The Bear and the Piano holds a special place in my heart. David Litchfield's story about a bear's search for happiness rings true in its sincerity and attention to detail, and Bear's desire to find his place in the world without letting others down is relatable and touching.

But I'll let David do the talking...