5 Ways I Learned from the Caldecott Experience

I have not been posting for many months as I have been immersed in reading, rereading and preparing for the Caldecott discussions that took place in January (as well as keeping up with the madness of the middle school library!).  After much sleep and an attempt to catch up on the rest of my life, I am returning to the blog!  For the first post back, I must begin with some thoughts on the incredible Caldecott experience.

Serving on the 2016 Caldecott Selection Committee was the fulfillment of a longtime dream.  As a young elementary school teacher, I vividly remember sharing the books bearing these special seals with my students. Together we enjoyed the stories, observed the art, and discussed what made each book special. So many times my readers and I were guilty of judging the book by its cover (I know! Gasp!), later to be delightfully surprised by what we discovered inside. Secretly, I pondered what it would be like to be part of THE committee that selected the winning books. Now, I have experienced this incredible privilege.  And what an honor and fantastic learning experience it was.

At one of our first meetings, Viki Ash, our priority chair consultant, advised us to, "Come in as learners."  This really struck me.  I am a learner by nature, but this was a reminder that it was perfectly all right not to come in with all of the answers.  That was not the expectation.  Nor should it be your attitude!  What a relief.  Because I certainly didn't have all the answers.  But, I did have a passion for children's literature and illustration, a dedication to the task I'd been given, a commitment to work hard, and a willingness to learn every step of the way! Here are five ways I learned and grew personally and professionally from this experience:

1. I learned from the books themselves. 
I am amazed at all the information I learned this year about the world by reading the 2015 picture books!  I learned about people who made a difference in their communities, about people who overcame incredible hardships to follow their dreams, and about people who are creating amazing art and music to bring beauty into the world.  I learned about the ocean, animals, nature, and natural disasters.  I laughed out loud at clever stories for the young (and the young at heart) and cried at stories of tragedy and loss.  I experienced beautiful poetic verse and was moved to view the world around me in new ways.  What a testament to the high quality of books that are being published every year for young readers and to the rich education that is available through books!  And what a reminder of what picture books have to offer to readers of all ages.


2.  I learned from my students. 
This year I formed a Caldecott Club to solicit input from readers. Each month a brought a big stack books to our after school meeting; then, our club, a small group of committed, opinionated ;) students, a few teachers, and my co-librarian Katherine, read, explored, observed, and shared their thoughts.  My students are in grades 5 - 8, so they came at the task as readers, but also as art appreciators and critics. Most took it very seriously and had a lot to say about the books and the artwork.  We didn't have a formal Mock Caldecott, but I gleaned a great deal from their observations and opinions at each meeting.  They were thoughtful and articulate.  They noticed things I did not. They often liked books I didn't think they would and vice versa.  In short, they reminded me of how smart they are, how important it is that the books recognize this intelligence, and how delightful it is to experience literature through the eyes of younger readers!

A few members of the Caldecott Club diligently evaluating  

3.  I learned from my committee members. 
In preparation for our discussions, I read, reread, observed, reread again, and took careful notes on the many, many eligible books.  But, when we came together and began discussing each title, members of the committee pointed out things I NEVER noticed.  The discussion of each book was greatly enriched because of what each member brought to the table.  My fellow committee members broadened my experience of every title by noticing, questioning, and adding more.  They challenged me to think differently and made me a deeper reader.  I am forever thankful for what I learned from each member.  This truly was the the deepest, richest, most exhausting, and most rewarding book discussion I have ever been a part of.  And, I am a better literary professional because of it.

One of our very official photos 

4. I learned from the process.
From Day One, the advice given to ALSC selection committee members is, "Trust the process."  Our process is confidential, but I will say that I did come to trust this valuable system.  Without going into specifics, I will say that for me "trusting the process" came to mean ...

• Thankfulness for a committee.  As I mentioned above working with a committee of readers who are passionate about children's literature and committed to the task at hand means that we all have strong opinions.  But, those strong opinions made us challenge each other and led to stronger, more thoughtful decisions in the end.  
• Thankfulness for the Caldecott Medal criteria.  The specific criteria guided us throughout the process.  We went back to them again and again, making sure we were staying true to our charge and that the books on the table were meeting or exceeding these criteria - not our personal criteria, the Caldecott criteria. They were our beacon and navigated us throughout the process.  
• Thankfulness for the system.  There is a system in place for the nominating, discussing, and voting.  And it works.  Each year is different. There is a whole new bounty of amazing books to enjoy, explore, and evaluate.  The selection committee brings new opinions and perspectives.  There is passionate debate.  But, the criteria and the system stay the same. And in the end, it all works and the most distinguished American picture book for children (and honors?) is named and children's literature is celebrated! 

5.  I learned the joy of celebrating literature! 
This was more of a reminder.... a lesson I never grow weary of learning in new ways.  Celebrating literature is what I love to do; it's why I became I librarian.  But, this experience allowed me some new celebrations.  First, we were able to join our wonderful committee chair Rachel Payne in making the early morning phone calls to the winning illustrators to share the good news before it was announced to the world.  What an incredible experience!  There were sleepy hellos, screams, yells, and many, many tears.  At not yet 7 am., I had cried away most of my makeup (Why wasn't I wearing waterproof mascara??) and was absolutely exhausted!  But it was soooo worth it!

Then, it was onto the 2016 ALA Youth Media Awards.  I absolutely love these announcements each year.  There is not much better than cheering for the authors, illustrators, and publishers of books that engage, entertain, and inspire readers.  This year was so special, because I got to sit with my fellow committee members - and now dear friends - in our matching t-shirts :) and cheer for the books we had selected.  We were celebrating these amazing illustrators, their art and stories, as well as the work we had done together.  We were also able to cheer for the other winning authors and illustrators (such a treat to see many of our books win additional awards!) and to cheer for the work of our fellow committees, the first time for many of us, truly understanding the time, work and commitment that went into their decisions.

After a celebratory breakfast, we went on the exhibit floor and got to visit the winning publishers' booths and put the Caldecott Medal and Honor stickers on the winning books!!  Wow.  So much fun! We were videoed and tweeted by Little, Brown the publisher of Finding Winnie, and it was even posted on CNN.com. What??!

Time to put the seal on! #Caldecott16 @SophieBlackall @lindsaymattick pic.twitter.com/evuD6k0uhb

— Little, Brown School (@lbschool) January 11, 2016

These celebrations are the big ones.  They are exhilarating and rejuvenating.  They allow us to cheer for the stars of children's literature and to celebrate the impact these books make on the lives of young readers.  They also remind us of why we do what we do.  But, the small, daily celebrations are just as important.  My heart leaps as much (or more!) when a student comes running in after reading a book I've recommended, thanking me, and demanding another. ;)  And, that's why it's okay that some personal favorites are always left out of the big announcements and award lists.  That's why it's such a privilege to be a librarian.  I can continue to celebrate books all year long by making sure those favorites find their way into the hands of their readers in the months and years to come.

So .... Many, many boxes of books delivered to my doorstep.  A year of reading, rereading, and note-taking.  Hours and hours of intense, incredible book discussion. Several lessons learned.  Fourteen new friends made.  One gold medal winner, four honors. and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

More ...

For more about our selections and about spreading the love for your annual favorites, read this lovely guest post on the Calling Caldecott blog of The Horn Book website written by our committee chair, Rachel Payne.


For more about the Caldecott process, read this post by my fellow committee member, librarian and reviewer, the brilliant Karen MacPherson.


For a tug at your heart, watch this video from the lovely and talented Sophie Blackall about winning the medal.  I've watched it again and again!

 

For an interview with Sophie B and the other winning illustrators, visit the one and only Mr. Schu's blog.  Mr. Schu is the ultimate Book Celebrator!!


It just keeps getting better and better!  Two very special treasures that recently arrived in the mail and will soon be added to my office walls!   I came sprinting into the house after each arrival jumping and screaming and basically had to be peeled off the ceiling!  :)

A letter TO ME from Kevin Henkes! 

A painting FOR ME from Sophie Blackall with letter on the back! 

Caldecott!

May 2 was the longest day of my life.  I knew all of the candidates on the Caldecott ballot would be contacted at some point to learn if they had been elected (or not).  I kept the phone with me all day awaiting the call and praying for good news.  Friends were texting, some were also awaiting election results, others were just encouraging me as I waited.   

The call finally came that afternoon, and it was Dan Bostrom, the ALSC Marketing Manager.  He asked how my day was going and then said, "I have some news that's going to make it even better."  I almost jumped out of my skin. I had been elected!  I squealed and danced all through the library!  


Serving on the Caldecott Committee has been a dream of mine for many, many years ... ever since I started sharing picture books with students.  I love art and words and marvel at the way the two come together so exquisitely in this format.  The privilege of serving on this committee is an honor and a responsibility I will not take lightly.  It will be hard work, but I look forward to the reading, evaluation, discussions,  debates, and challenge of working with a group to select one medal winner.  

This weekend at the ALA Annual Conference I was able to attend a lovely Random House cocktail party celebrating illustrators Chris Appelhans, Marc Brown, Brian Floca, Mary GrandPre, and Kevin Hawkes.  Hearing these talented artists talk about their work filled my heart and reaffirmed my love for illustration and the power of the picture book.  (This basically happens every time I hear an author or illustrator speak or read a picture book!)  My heart swelled knowing that I will play a small part in making picture book history. 

Thank you to all the ALSC members who voted for me and gave me this special opportunity.  I can't wait to get started!

DMA Arts & Letters Live 2014

The Dallas Museum of Art offers a literary series called Arts & Letters Live (including the BooksmART programs "for the young and young at heart") that brings outstanding authors and illustrators to town every year.  I love this programming and have been volunteering for the events for several years.  

The day the season's lineup is announced is always exciting; I open the email and eagerly devour the list to see who's coming ... I know, total nerd.  Each season offers an outstanding offering of children's, young adult, and adult authors.  Just a few of the amazing writers I have had the opportunity to hear through this programming include: E.L. Konigsburg, Marcus Zusak, Kathryn Stockett, Daniel Handler, Maira Kalman, Sarah Dessen, Laurie Halse Anderson, Eoin Colfer, and Lois Lowry.  This year is no different, offering an excellent array of talent (including S.E. Hinton, author of The Outsiders who will be here on April 24!).  

I've attended two BooksmART programs this year and both were fabulous:

Oliver Jeffers

I have longtime been a fan of Jeffers' work.  It is whimsical and charming, and I love his distinctive handwriting (always a weakness with me).  Mr. Jeffers visited the museum on February 9, and the illustrator himself proved to be just as charming as his books and artwork. First off, he has an Irish accent so the room fell in love with him right off, but he also has a delightful sense of humor, a passion for what he does, and a lovely appreciation for his fans.  He did a stellar job of presenting to a crowd that ranged in age from 2 to 82 and kept all completely entertained.  And during the book signing, he drew something special in every book and had a word for every person who waited for a signature.

One thing I loved that he said is that everyone is an artist when they are young.  Some just stop.  When young artists came through the line, he would tell them, "Just keep going".  I like that. I wish I had kept going. 

Here is a video he showed at the beginning that shows his studio and gives a taste of his fun personality: 

Tim Federle

Tim Federle is new on the scene but he has definitely made a big splash.  He published his first book Better Nate Than Ever in 2013 to stellar reviews and much critical acclaim. This autobiographically inspired debut novel tells the story of Nate, a kid growing up with big dreams in a small town; he knows that life will get better if he can just get to New York City.

After reading several reviews and tweets about this novel, I read it last year and loved it.  It's heartfelt and hilarious.  Although I have never felt the draw of the stage, I could definitely relate to Nate's desire to find his place in the world... particularly in the midst of middle school!  And writers with comic talent always have me at hello.  ;)  So, I was thrilled when I saw Tim Federle's name on the season's schedule and was doubly thrilled when Carolyn Bess, Director of Programming and Arts & Letters Live, asked me to introduce him.  What an honor! 

Well, what a treat it was when Mr. Federle visited on March 2.  He was an absolute riot.  I

loved him from the minute I met him, as did the entire room.  We were rolling from the moment he began.  Unfortunately, Dallas experienced a crazy cold snap that day and icy roads kept many from attending.  But, the author took it all in stride and the small crowd that attended (what he described as, "almost enough for a party bus") enjoyed every moment!  It was a side-splitting afternoon celebrating writing, following dreams, and tap dancing that was more than worth bundling up and facing the elements.  

If Tim Federle is ever in your area, I advise you to be first in line to see this talented, hilarious guy!  Librarians, he will be at both TLA and ALA annual conferences this year.  :)

Side note: Tim Federle is the creative genius behind Tequila Mockingbird: Cocktails with a Literary Twist which I have previously mentioned is a favorite gift of mine.  He is now at work on Hickory Daiquiri Dock which will likely be my new go-to gift for new parents.  ;)  


If you live in the Dallas area, I highly recommend taking advantage of the Arts & Letters Live series.  Most of the programs are free, but you do have to reserve tickets ahead of time.  Click here for the season at a glance.  Hope to see you at an upcoming event!

Favs of 2013

SO many great books released in 2013.  Here are my favorites of the year:



Picture Books


The Day the Crayons Quit
by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
Hilarious collection of letters from the crayons who have had enough!  Overworked, ignored, or misunderstood, they quit!  This clever story is perfectly drawn with Jeffers' charming artwork and lettering.  Innovative and witty, The Day the Crayons Quit is a must for every picture book shelf.   



Exclamation Mark
by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Ted Lichtenheld
Exclamation Mark is different and is trying to find his place in the world.  Funny and perfectly PUN-ny, this little book has a simple but important message for readers of all ages. Particularly for those who appreciate humor, word play, and a brilliant blend of text and illustration.   

Mr. Tiger Goes Wild
written & illustrated by Peter Brown
Mr. Tiger doesn't really like his prim, proper world and goes a little ... wild.  He learns some things in the wilderness as do his prim friends while he is away.  Another riotous romp from Peter Brown, complete with his detailed, whimsical, perfectly hand-crafted illustrations. His use of line and color (ORANGE!) are pure genius. 

Paul Meets Bernadette
written & illustrated by Rosy Lamb 
Paul swims around and around in circles in his fish bowl ... until Bernadette arrives. Bernadette sees things differently and shows Paul a whole new way to view the world.  The artwork, created with broad strokes reminiscent of Monet or Matisse, adds to the charm and beauty of this gentle book celebrating the impact one individual can make on the world ... even one as small as a fish bowl. 

Flora and the Flamingo 
written & illustrated by Molly Idle
This wordless interactive book is a pure delight.  Plump little Flora, in a pink swimsuit and bathing cap, imitates the moves of her friend the flamingo.  Although not quite as graceful, her efforts result in pure fun.  Young readers will want to flip the pages again and again ... and likely mimic the dance!  Created by a former DreamWorks animator, this duo begs to star in an animated short, whether it's on the screen or in the reader's mind.   


Middle Grade

Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures 
by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by K.G. Campbell 
Another Flora! ... and equally as endearing.  Flora Belle Buckman, a self-described cynic, steps in to help a squirrel in a tangle with a vacuum cleaner.  The squirrel (AKA Ulysses) survives and emerges a superhero with special powers and a penchant for poetry.  DiCamillo has woven another quietly brilliant tale with her exquisite word choice, endearing characters, and trademark charm.

Counting by 7s
by Holly Goldberg Sloan 
Willow Chance is a 12-year-old genius.  She has an amazing knowledge of nature and medical conditions, but knows very little about getting along with others.  When tragedy hits, Willow must learn to exist in a new reality and makes an unexpected impact on those around her.  The writing is impeccable, and Willow a true gem.  This tragic, but ultimately hopeful tale is one-in-a-million.  


P.S. Be Eleven 
by Rita Williams-Garcia 
Delphine and her sisters are back!  Returning home from time spent with her estranged mother, Delphine must reconcile what she has experienced and her newly found independence with her grandmother's old ways, the changes happening in her family (her father is dating!), and the trials of 6th grade. Rita Williams-Garcia has created an excellent sequel to an excellent book.   I can't wait for #3! 

Star Wars: Jedi Academy 
by Jeffrey Brown 
This little book completely surprised and delighted me!  Roan dreamed of entering the Pilot Academy, like his father and older brother before him.  He doesn't get in, but instead is invited to the mysterious Jedi Academy.  Told through journal entries, clippings, report cards, doodles, and letters, Star Wars: Jedi Academy tells the ups and downs of Roan's first year at the Academy.  The book is clever and entertaining, but also surprisingly perceptive as it addresses topics such as bullying, making friends, not giving up, and handling new situations. It has huge reader appeal and makes you want to pull out your old collection of Star Wars action figures (yes, I've got 'em.. even the Land Rover!) and maybe even start your own journal.  Read it you must, love it you will. ;





Young Adult

One Came Home  
by Amy Timberlake 
It's 1871 in Wisconsin, and Georgie's sister has disappeared.  The town assumes the worst, but Georgie, armed with only her sharpshooting skills and pure determination, sets out insistent on finding her.  Part adventure, part mystery and wholly original, One Came Home is a True Grit for tweens & teens (and 40-somethings!), immediately transporting readers to a different time and into the heart of a plucky unforgettable heroine.  Funny, smart, and insightful. 


The Fire Horse Girl 
by Kay Honeyman 
Jade Moon is born under the worst sign of the Zodiac for Chinese girls ensuring that she is willful and stubborn, traits not desirable in young girls.  While her grandfather worries about marrying her off, she dreams of a different future.  Her chance comes when a distant adopted cousin arrives with an opportunity to go to America.  But, admittance to this new country is not easy for the Chinese in 1923 and detainment at Angel Island is almost unbearable.  Jade Moon's strength and will turn out to be just what she needs to survive. This well-researched novel gives readers an authentic view into Chinese immigration as well as a strong, feisty teen to root for as she navigates her new world.  

Going Vintage 
by Lindsey Leavitt 
I am a sucker for romance, quirky, loveable characters, and books that make me laugh... Lindsey Leavitt creates all three superbly!  When Mallory's boyfriend "cheats" on her with an online girlfriend, she swears off all technology.  Armed with a to-do list her grandmother made as a teen in 1962, Mallory decides to "go vintage," to return to a simpler time, and to try to accomplish her grandmother's goals.  The challenge proves to be a little more than she expected (How does she run for pep club secretary when her school doesn't even have a pep club??).  Through it all, Mallory makes many new discoveries about herself, her family, and those around her.  Reviewers have claimed Linsdsey Leavitt's books have "humor and heart." I wholeheartedly agree and can't wait for the next one!   



Winger

by Andrew Smith
Ryan Dean West is the youngest in his junior class at an elite boarding school on the West Coast. He is a frequent target for bullies, but his wits, determination, and prowess on the rugby field help him rise above.  This year he is set on making Annie, his best friend and love of his life, see him as more than a friend and a younger boy.  But the year brings more than anyone anticipated.  This honest look into the mind and heart of an insecure, hormonally-charged 14-year-old boy is a true achievement. It's wickedly funny, intelligent, surprising, and absolutely heartbreaking.  



And my two very favorites of the year ...  

All the Truth that's In Me
by Julie Berry 
Four years ago, Judith and her best friend disappeared.  Her friend's body was found in the river; Judith returns to town two years later, mutilated and unable to speak.  Viewed as cursed and ignored by the town and her family, Judith silently pours her heart out to Lucas, the boy she has loved since childhood.  With echoes of The Scarlet Letter and Speak, All the Truth That's in Me is an exquisite, completely captivating novel.  Readers are immediately pulled into Judith's silent world and compelled by the mystery surrounding her disappearance.  This quiet but determined girl grabs hold of your heart as she searches for answers, for hope, and for her lost voice.  References to Joan of Arc, emphasizing sacrifices for love, and the use of the Psalms as a mode of healing are brilliant.  This rich, beautifully executed story stays with the reader long after the final page is turned.



Fangirl 
by Rainbow Rowell 
Cath and twin sister Wren have been inseparable for years.  They share a love for the fantasy series Simon Snow and the world of fanfiction surrounding the beloved stories.  But, as they prepare to go away to college, Wren seems to be pulling away from Simon and from Cath.  Wren has always been the more confident, extroverted sister and trying to navigate college without her is a big challenge for reserved, socially-awkward Cath.  But, the year is full of surprises, new friendships, trials and triumphs, and unexpected love. Is it possible for Cath to leave the boy wizard's magical world behind and fully embrace her own reality?  This novel is simply outstanding.  The characters are real, complicated, and funny; the dialogue quick and unforgettable (I have read the conversations over and over, treasuring the humor, originality, and emotion). This is a story that wedges into your heart and never leaves. It is pure magic.  

NOTE:  I LOVED Rowell's Eleanor & Park, also released this year; but I decided to select just one to spotlight in this list and Fangirl won out. The deciding factor? Levi ;) I am head-over-heels for this guy! 

These were the standouts for me from a year of many excellent reads. What were your 2013 favs?   

Jillicious Snacks: Back to school means new crayons!

One of my favorite things about every new school year - as a student and now as an educator - is buying new school supplies.  As a kiddo, the highlight was always the fresh, pristine, perfectly-sharpened crayons.  I still love new crayons which is probably what led to the immediate love of these two selections: 

 

The Day the Crayons Quit
written by Drew Daywalt
illustrated by Oliver Jeffers 

When Duncan opens his box of crayons, he finds a stack of letters from his angry crayons.  Each color is upset about something, and their letters detailing their complaints are hilarious.  Poor Blue is dwindling to nothing as he must constantly color in all the water and skies, Red is tired of working holidays, and Orange and Yellow are no longer speaking.  In the end, Duncan, desperately wanting to color, finds a way to appease his disgruntled team. 

I absolutely adore this new picture book!  It is such a clever, charming story.  Jeffers' endearing illustrations are the perfect compliment to Daywalt's witty text.  Readers (of all ages!) will enjoy this back-to-school tale as they open their own fresh boxes of crayons.  


And while on the subject of crayons, I must highlight my little back-to-school gift to myself!  

 YSL: Prêt-à-Porter: Coloring, Activity, and Inspiration Book
by Glenat     


This book celebrates the 40 years of fashion created by the late Yves Saint Laurent.  It is tons of fun!  The pages are filled with cool fashion sketches to color and YSL-inspired activities to encourage creativity.  It's a coloring book for grown-up girls!  The perfect gift for the fashionistas in your life.  :)    




To those of you returning to school, best wishes for a great year.  May the months ahead be filled with wonderful new supplies, books, and experiences!  :)  

August 10 for 10!

It's a PICTURE BOOK PARTY!

Today is the third annual Picture Book 10 for 10 event (#pb10for10).  Picture book aficionados all over have spent time pondering their favorite picture books and building top ten lists of their final selections.  The event is hosted yearly by creators Cathy at Reflect & Refine and Mandy at Enjoy & Embrace Learning. I am participating this year for the first time.  As a lover of picture books AND lists, I couldn't wait to get involved! 

I created a list of 10 Irresistible Picture Book Characters (or Duos!).  I included both classic and contemporary characters, favorites from my childhood as well as new friends.  Of course, there are many more unique, unforgettable characters that I could have included, but here are ten of my very favorites.  

1.  Frances

Frances is the star of several books by Russell Hoban, including Bread and Jam for Frances, A Birthday for Frances, and Bedtime for Breakfast.  This feisty little badger experiences the typical feelings and struggles of a growing kid such as dealing with a new sibling and not wanting to go to bed.  She is funny, honest and completely loveable.  One minute she is down and out, and the next she is singing funny little ditties while jumping rope!  I adored her as a child and still adore her today.     

 

2.  Frog & Toad

Best friends Frog and Toad were created by Arnold Lobel in the 1970s and are featured in four easy-to-read beginning chapter books. These funny friends are the perfect duo for beginning readers to meet.  Although simple, their stories are amusing and relatable, as much so now as when they were first published.  Perpetually positive Frog and the slightly irritable Toad provide comical adventures and banter that continue to delight readers of all ages.

 

 

3. George & Martha  

These two friends are a riot.  I still remember reading their stories over and over as a child and laughing out loud at their hijinks, such as George pouring pea soup into his shoes.  James Marshall was a brilliant author and illustrator.  His lumpy, loveable illustrations (in these and all his books) are hilarious and unforgettable.        
 

 

 

 

 4.  Lilly 

This little mouse is a force to be reckoned with!  She rules several of Kevin Henke's books; my favorite, of which, is Julius, The Baby of the World.  She is so excited about her sibling on the way until he arrives.  Lilly's take on everything is priceless as are the expressions on her parents' faces. ;)

5.  Elephant & Piggie

Author/illustrator Mo Willems is a genius.  He speaks "kid" better than anyone while also entertaining the adults who are sharing the stories with young readers. All of the books starring friends Elephant & Piggie are a hoot.  I was delighted this week to overhear a friend sharing Let's Go for a Ride with her toddler who came from China just a few months ago.  Little Lilly was completely engaged, giggling and singing along, "Drivety Drive, Drivety Drive!" as her mom read this favorite book.  What a joy to see how these two hilarious characters delighted this little reader assimilating to a new culture just as much as they did this forty-something adult!       

6.  Scaredy Squirrel 

Oh, how I love this little critter.  Scaredy Squirrel (and his worries!) are the center of several books by Melanie Watt.  Squirrel's fears are both charming and comforting to other worriers and "germaphobes."  Watt's simple page designs and endearing illustrations of Scaredy Squirrel and the dangers in his world (such as killer bees and spiders) are truly delightful. 

7. Lucy

"Lucille Beatrice Bear" is the loveable main character of Peter Brown's Children Make Terrible Pets and You Will be My Friend!  I adore her passion and enthusiasm.  Anyone who ever wanted a pet or a new friend can't help but relate to Lucy.  And, ever the optimist, Lucy reminds us that there is always another opportunity right around the corner.   

 

8. Officer Buckle & Gloria 

Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann is one of my favorite Caldecott winning books. I love how the reader must take in the text AND the illustrations to get the full story; and I also love the way kids respond to this story.  Officer Buckle and Gloria are the perfect pair; they are true friends that bring out the best in each other.  When challenges come their way, the stick together and come out stronger in the end.

 

 

 

9. Ferdinand 

My heart truly sings when I see this book.  It was such a childhood favorite (and it was a classic even then!).  The story was written by Munro Leaf, illustrated by Robert Lawson, and published in 1936.  As a kid, I loved that Ferdinand just wanted to sit and smell the flowers. As an adult, I love that he reminds us to follow our heart and to not be afraid of taking a different path, even when we take that path alone.   

 

  

10. Leo

And, finally, my last irresistible character is Leo the Late Bloomer created by author Robert Kraus and illustrator Jose Aruego.  Leo doesn't read, write, or speak like the other growing lions.  Leo's father is concerned, but his mother knows he'll bloom in his own time... which is exactly what he does. As a bit of a late bloomer myself, I have always loved Leo and am encouraged by his slightly slower path.  What a great reminder to accept everyone right where they are!  

 

It was a fun challenge trying to whittle down to my 10 favorites.  Who would YOU list as the most irresistible picture book characters??   

 

ALA 2013!

Last week I traveled to Chicago for the American Library Association Annual Conference.  Here are a few highlights from the fun weekend:

1.  Caldecott Pre-conference

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Caldecott Medal, ALSC offered a special pre-conference at the Art Institute of Chicago.  It was magnificent!  It started with a keynote given by illustrator/author Brian Selznick.  He spoke about Randolph Caldecott, told the history of the medal, and payed tribute to the late great Maurice Sendak, his mentor and friend.  It was hilarious, touching, and unforgettable.  

The rest of the day included panels featuring Caldecott winning illustrators, discussions about the winning books through the ages, and break-out sessions focusing on different aspects of the award, the honored books, media, and style.  

As a lover of both art and the written word, I appreciate the way the two come together beautifully in picture books, creating illustrated stories that delight readers of all ages.  I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this this day-long celebration of the Caldecott Medal and the wonder of picture books!

Caldecott Medal 75th Anniversary Logo created by Brian Selznick.  I love the clever way he incorporated several of the iconic characters from the winning books.  

Chris Raschka and his editor Lee Wade discussing the evolution of A Ball for Daisy. 

 
2.  Publisher Events

I was able to attend several fabulous publisher events throughout the weekend showcasing authors and previewing new books.  Thank you to Penguin, Little Brown, Random House, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, and Disney Hyperion for including me in this fun events! 
 

With Sarah Dessen at the Penguin YA Rock Star dinner.   Laurie Halse Anderson, Marie Lu and DJ MacHale were the other rock stars in attendance!  Yowza!  

Little Brown dance party with cool Holly Black

No taxis could be found so several of us, including authors Holly Black & Paolo Bacigalupi, friend Dr. Marianne Follis, and hilarious literary agent Barry Goldblatt (AKA Libba Bray's husband!), took a limo back to our hotels.  What a memorable ride!  :) 

Scholastic Brunch featuring group readings done by authors Gordon Korman, Brandon Mull, Kirby Larson, Kat Falls, Kathryn Erskine, and Jeffrey Brown.  Hilarious!

Received a custom tattoo from Caldecott and Pura Belpre award-winning illustrator David Diaz at an S & S dessert reception 

  
3. The Fashion & Impressionism Exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago

Friend Mary Pruitt and I took a break from the library events for a quick visit to the AIC. I had not been able to explore the museum during the pre-conference, so was glad for the chance to return for another visit.  The current exhibit showcases the impact of fashion on the Impressionist painters as they worked to portray modern life in their work.  Absolutely fascinating!  One thing I really enjoyed ... the exquisite wording in the descriptions of the art and inspirations. I collected so many delicious phrases!  

The lions outside the institute sporting Blackhawk helmets to celebrate the Stanely Cup victory!  :)

4.  Newbery Caldecott Wilder Banquet

I was so honored to sit with Random House publishers at the NCW Banquet.  This banquet is such a special annual occasion.  As several have said, it's like the Academy Awards for the world of children's literature.  This year's recipients delivered the most hilarious and heartfelt speeches.  It was a true privilege to be there and to be a part of the celebration of literary excellence.  And who was sitting at my table?  Newbery winning legends Cynthia Voigt and Patricia MacLachlan!  What an unforgettable evening! 

ALSC friends Gaye Hinchliff and Mary Ann Scheuer

With good friend Dr. Marianne Follis

The unbelievable Jon Klassen accepting the Caledecott Medal (and he won an honor too!).  I LOVE him. 

An incredible gathering of illustrators.  It's like an uber talented frat party!  

5.  Time with friends!
One of the best things about library conferences is spending time with librarians from all over the US!  I am so thankful for these friendships and the chance to reconnect every year.

With friends Karen Kessel & Mary Pruitt

With roomies Dr. Rose Brock, Heather Aston, and Dr. Mary Pruitt in our matching pjs!  A girl never outgrows the joy of a pajama party!  :)

What a terrific weekend.  And, to top it all off, I came home with oodles of books to keep me busy all summer!  Thank you, ALA, ALSC, publishers, and dear friends for another fabulous conference.  Can't wait for Las Vegas 2014!