Who hasn't dreamed of being an astronaut, exploring the vast solar system? What about exploring or probing the vast depths of our oceans? I have a surprise today. The amazing Nonfiction writer, Jennifer Swanson, has a book that compares these two scientific fields. Although Jennifer Swanson's newest nonfiction book, through National Geographic Kids (NGKids), is an amazing nonfiction look at the interconnection of space and the sea, aimed at eight to twelve-year-olds, the phot

At some point in their life, I imagine everyone's wondered what "home" meant. Was it wherever their things were? Where they were born? Wherever a special someone lived with them (parent, pet, significant other)? Or is there an indefinable something that makes a place a home? Vincent the cat, faces this struggle to define and figure out what "home" means. Vincent Comes Home Author: Jessixa Bagley Illustrator: Aaron Bagley Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (2018) Ages: 4-6 Fiction

Today, I get the privilege of talking with the husband and wife Bagley team, Jessixa and Aaron, who created the lovely and poignant Vincent Comes Home. While you probably know Jessixa from as the author/illustrator of Laundry Day, Before I Leave, and Boats for Papa (winner of the 2016 SCBWI Golden Kite Award for best picture book text), this is Aaron's debut in Kidlit. He is the illustrator of Rocking Fatherhood: The Dad-to-Be's Guide to Staying Cool. Be sure to check out Jes

Here is my entry for Susanna Hill's - 3rd Annual Pretty Much World Famous Valentiny Writing Contest!!! Here are the rules for the contest: Write a Valentines story appropriate for children (children here defined as ages 12 and under) maximum 214 words in which someone is hopeful! Your someone can hope for something good or something bad. Your story can be poetry or prose, sweet, funny, surprising or anything in between. VALENTINE MOVE (214 words) “It’s not fair!” Mina punche

Who hasn't had (or been) a child that couldn't sleep, worried about shadows or creaky noises? A child who needed one more story or one more drink of water? What happens when a little bear is told he must sleep until spring? Pat Zietlow Miller (Sophie's Squash) has done it again. She's created a delightful story of a little bear unable to fall asleep. Wide-Awake Bear Author: Pat Zietlow Miller Illustrator: Jean Kim Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers (2018) Ages: 4-8 years

Have a new sibling arriving soon? Perhaps a kid who loves dinosaurs? Or just absolutely adore "How to . . ." picture books. Have I got a book for you today! Jill Esbaum (I am Cow, Hear Me Moo!) and Mike Boldt (I Don't Want to be a Frog) have combined to create a hysterical romp through the trials and joys of "growing" a sibling. The perfect book to share with a young child who has (or is about to) become a big sister or brother. How to Grow a Dinosaur Author: Jill Esbaum Illu