Summary: In this lyrical picture book illustrated by a two-time Caldecott Medalist, share in a blind child’s joyful experience of the changing seasons.
Where I live, seasons change. I know because my fingers and toes, my ears, my mouth and nose, all tell me so.
Neveah is blind, but that doesn’t mean she can’t enjoy each of the four wondrous seasons of the year.
She knows it’s winter when her boots go scruuunch in the snow and cold flakes land softly on her tongue.
She knows spring has come by the smell of hyacinths, the bzzzz of a bee in her ear.
Summer is a trip to the beach, where she can hear the crash of ocean waves and the keowww of seagulls overhead.
And when Neveah’s rake goes scritch scratch over fallen leaves and the air turns brisk, she knows it’s autumn. Soon the cycle of seasons will begin anew.
Join Neveah as she uses her senses of touch, taste, hearing, and smell to vividly describe the changing seasons and the unique delights they each have to offer.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: Margaret “aka Ducky” loves ducks and knows everything there is to know about them. However, she soon realizes that not everyone shares her same passions when she’s at a day camp with some other students and things go “fowl”. Through a struggle to make a friend, Ducky discovers the value of listening, promoting kindness and understanding without sacrificing her own interests!
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: In a tiny barn in Bethlehem, Old Hannah the cow lives alone until the cold wind drives other animals to seek shelter. One by one, they squeeze in, but when a tiny mouse stirs up trouble, the barn erupts into chaotic mooing, meowing, and barking. Will there be enough room for a little family to have a silent night?
Just Enough Room for Christmas is written to be read aloud, at home, in preschool classes and church children’s messages, or even Christmas Eve services. Families often get distracted by all the noise of the Christmas season. When we clear away all the clutter and distractions, we find, in our homes and hearts, just enough room for the newborn King.
Come back tomorrow for a special guest post by Robin Currie where she shares easy steps to writing a holiday picture book!
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: The ghost at 632 Savannah Street is real . . . right?
Gilbert often feels invisible, just like the ghost living at 632 Savannah Street. Despite his family’s disbelief, Gilbert leaves gifts for the ghost: a friendship bracelet, a plate of cookies, even a drawing with a note. When each disappears one by one, Gilbert finds that believing and friendship are worth the effort.
For kids who might often feel unseen, Gilbert and the Ghost is a ghostly tale of overcoming obstacles and finding friendship in mysterious places. Gothic, whimsical illustrations make this picture book perfect for spooky season, while its earnest themes make it worth a read all year round.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: Henry and his sister, Meredith, can hardly wait for Grandma to arrive for a visit. But what should they expect? Among the children’s diverse friends and their grandmothers who bake, create art, and speak Spanish, will Grandma be able to share something unique and fun with the kids?
Henry’s fears are alleviated when, not long after arrival, they flutter like butterflies, slither like snakes, and enjoy other challenges of stretching their muscles and calming their minds. This is no run-of-the-mill grandma, and, when it’s time for goodbye, the kids know this was the BEST grandma visit ever.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Title: Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World
Author: Tara Hackney
Illustrator: (Photo illustrations)
Publisher: IVP Kids
Release Date: June 24, 2025
Format: Board book, eBook
Summary: The classic song “Jesus Loves the Little Children of the World” has been heard in homes and churches for over a century. This fresh adaptation includes three new stanzas that reflect God’s inclusive love. The vibrant photographs showcase children from around the globe, creating a captivating reading (or singing!) experience for preschoolers and their accompanying grown-ups. With the beautiful reminder that all children of the world are “made and loved so perfectly,” these updated lyrics celebrating God’s love will quickly become a favorite in every home.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: In the Beginning, God Smiled is a poetic journey that blends faith and science, beautifully depicting God’s creation of the universe through the Big Bang. This enchanting tale invites children to marvel at the cosmos, celebrate God’s work of creation, and join Him in His happiness.
Spark wonder in your child through this poetic retelling of the creation account. Filled with joyful rhymes and colorful illustrations, In the Beginning, God Smiled is a tale of God’s joy and the Big Bang that followed.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: Scary noises are coming from the creepy attic door in Eduardo’s bedroom. His imagination goes wild! When Eduardo finally gathers the courage to investigate, what does he find? This book is designed to build a child’s literacy skills and empower them to succeed. Inside the book, you will find developmentally appropriate activities to use with your young reader.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Title: Moon Choo-Choo: A Tale of Imagination and Sibling Adventure
Author: Mona Voelkel
Illustrator: Nancy Kincade
Publisher: Arigna Press
Release Date: May 30, 2024 (National Creativity Day)
Format: Paperback, Hardcover, and eBook
Summary: Everybody, time to play. What should we pretend today?
Destination: The Moon
Engine, Engine, Number 3
Shooting through the galaxy.
If our train gets lost in space,
Stars will help us find our place.
Where will imagination take you?
Take a rollicking ride with Moon Choo-Choo and three siblings as they blast off on a journey of imagination. What will they play today? Will they be engineers? Astronauts? Their imagination powers up Moon Choo-Choo. They journey into space, have a lunar lunch, and, despite being low on fuel and threatened by asteroids, make it back home safely.
Moon Choo-Choo, a 200-word rhyming picture book for ages 3-6, is a joyful celebration of sibling bonds and imaginative play.
*Join Mona and Nancy for their 30 minute “First Read and Review Zoom Party” on May 30, 2024, at 7PM EST: https://forms.gle/ygMC9MntfzNVCnd69
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: As children play together, a sandbox becomes a desert, sidewalk chalk drawings become an art gallery, and everything that can be dreamed up is within reach. From forests to hike and mountains to climb, oceans to sail and castles to build, creative little ones don’t have to look any farther than their own backyard for wonderful things to be discovered!
“Sprightly, colorful digital illustrations and spare but stirring text brim with childlike creativity and wonder. There’s lots of fun to be had in your own backyard—and in this lively book.” – Kirkus Reviews, 4/15/24
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! For more information, CLICK HERE.
Summary: Join the adventure of a stepdaughter and stepmother as they discover the true magic of family in The Truth About Stepmoms.
The story follows a young girl’s humorous yet heartfelt investigation as she attempts to uncover the truth about her new stepmom, Via. But to her surprise, she discovers that Via does not change into the wicked figure she heard about from friends, books, and movies but remains the same caring, fun-loving, and kind-hearted individual who brings love and joy to her life in unexpected ways.
The Truth About Stepmoms celebrates the precious bond that can grow between children and their stepmothers, debunking common stereotypes and fostering a positive understanding of blended families.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary: It’s early morning, and the forest seems silent, but life is all around. As the sun shines through the pines, one by one, the animals wake. Owl, Squirrel, Raccoon, Bear, Sparrow, Rabbit, Woodpecker, and Deer gather to celebrate summer and offer loving wishes as they send their young into the world.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary: Bedtime is looming, and Sophie wants to hear a story. So she asks her dad—the best storyteller she knows—to tell her one. He’s just started telling a story about a queen and a unicorn when—HOLD ON—this is not the story Sophie had envisioned! She interrupts to request a teeny, tiny change. And then she interrupts again, and again, and again, resulting in an entertaining game of storytelling ping pong as Sophie and Daddy work together to create an unforgettable tale. This beautifully illustrated book is a sweet tribute to daughters, their daddies, and the time they share together.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary: A girl and her grandmother spend the day making mochi together in this gentle and joyous “storytelling treat” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) celebrating family, tradition, and the memories that matter most.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Publisher: Doubleday, Random House Children’s Books
Release Date: March 12, 2024
Format: Hardcover
Summary: In this female-forward spin on the traditional children’s song “Old MacDonald”, readers can join Miss MacDonald on her vegetable farm and see all the work that goes into growing healthy and delicious produce. With a “weed-weed” here and a “pick-pick” there, young readers can follow Miss MacDonald as she tends to her vegetable farm. It’s a rollicking, rhyming read-aloud that ends in a community feast and celebrates themes of healthy eating, plant-based meals, local produce, gardening, seasons, and female farmers.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Title: Afikoman, Where’d You Go? A Passover Hide-and-Seek Adventure
Author: Rebecca Gardyn Levington
Illustrator: Noa Kelner
Publisher: Penguin Random House/Rocky Pond Books
Release Date: February 13, 2024
Format: Hardcover, Kindle
Summary: Ask any Jewish child what their favorite part of the Passover seder is and they will undoubtedly say “searching for the afikoman!” This ritual, in which a piece of broken matzah is hidden for the kids to find after the meal, is always a huge hit.
AFIKOMAN, WHERE’D YOU GO? brings this Passover tradition to life — literally. It is Where’s Waldo meets The Gingerbread Man — a fast-paced hide-and-seek romp, starring a smug and sneaky piece of matzah on the run and a kid who will not quit until he’s brought back to the seder table.
Readers are invited to join the hunt by helping the narrator find the clever Afikoman hiding in the illustrations on each page. The text is sprinkled with Hebrew words, and the back matter includes a glossary where readers can learn more about this fun Jewish tradition.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Hooray! Please join me in wishing Heather Pierce Stigall’s debut picture book, Paisley’s Big Birthday, a very Happy Book Birthday today! This book, released by Clavis Publishing and illustrated by Natallia Nushuyeva, is Adorable, with a capital A, in both text and artand will ultimately be published in four additional languages besides English.
Heather is an active member of the kidlit community, especially in the Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the SCBWI where she is the Critique Group/Meet & Greet Coordinator. I’m so glad our paths crossed over on Julie Hedlund’s 12 x 12 Picture Book Challenge membership forum. With experience as a counselor for children and families, Heather loves to write stories that truly resonate with kids. Let’s learn more about Heather and Paisley’s Big Birthday!
Congratulations on your adorable debut picture book Paisley’s Big Birthday! Please tell us a bit about the story and who or what inspired it.
HS: Thank you so much, Lauri! The origins of PAISLEY’S BIG BIRTHDAY began nine years ago when I picked up my youngest child from preschool on his birthday. He climbed into his car seat, wearing a glittery birthday crown and a slight frown. The conversation began something like this:
Birthday Boy: “When is my birthday?”
Me: “Today!”
Birthday Boy: (shakes his head) “No. When is my real birthday?”
Me: “Today is your real birthday!”
Birthday Boy: “It doesn’t feel like it.”
Heather Stigall’s son Regan donning his birthday crown
My mind began to spin. Why didn’t he feel like it was his birthday? Did something happen or not happen at school? What would it take for him to feel like it was his “real” birthday? A few questions later, I realized that he believed that on his birthday he would instantly “feel” older; he would magically be able to do things he wasn’t able to do the day before. But I kept the conversation going during the ride home, through lunch, and for some time after that. I asked lots of questions and listened as he shared evidence for why it was most definitely not his birthday. I was enamored with his reasoning and determination, while underneath it all, I felt his disappointment that this day, one that was supposed to be special, didn’t meet his expectations. Not long after, I wrote a draft of a story about a bunny who hops out of bed the morning of her birthday, expecting to be all things “big bunny.”
Illustrator Natallia Bushuyeva’s artwork is so sweet and complements your text so perfectly. Were you able to offer input into what the illustrations would look like? Did Natallia’s work exceed your expectations?
HS: I really hit the jackpot when Clavis chose Natallia to illustrate Paisley’s Big Birthday, didn’t I? Clavis always produces beautifully illustrated picture books, so I knew I would be in good hands, but seeing the way Natallia brought our characters to life was really special—she absolutely exceeded my expectations! I just love her art style and think she was the perfect choice for Paisley. Unlike most U.S. publishers, Clavis (who is based in Belgium) makes it a practice to connect author and illustrator so they may collaborate if they wish. But I have no business telling an illustrator what to do, so I put my full trust in Natallia, and I think that worked out beautifully.
How have your degrees in Child Development, Psychology-based Human Relations, and Social Work influenced how you write for children?
HS: I have always felt a connection with children, so I pursued my degrees because I wanted to learn more about the “why” and “how” behind the way people, particularly children, behave and think. I used that education and training as a counselor for children and families, and it came in handy when raising my own children. Now, as a writer, I think that background and experience inform me about how children relate to others and the world, and I hope to have that come across when I create stories about and for them.
Please share one of your favorite classic picture books and one of your favorite recent picture books.
HS: That is such a difficult question to answer! I have fond memories of many classic picture books, and I read SO many picture books regularly, that it’s hard to choose just one of each. But, if I must answer, I’m going to cheat a little. What comes to mind as a childhood favorite “classic” is the Frances series by Russell and Lillian Hoban. I love them all, but I particularly like Bread and Jam for Frances and A Bargain for Frances in that series. I think they capture the mind and antics of a child so well, they have the perfect balance of humor and heart, and they bring back memories of me being read to as a child.
As for more recent favorites, I’ll narrow it down to two as well: I love Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry and Juana Martinez-Neal (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt/2020) for its gorgeous art, clever plot, giggle-inducing humor, and heartfelt theme—all around brilliance! I also love Off-Limits by Helen Yoon (Candlewick Press/2021) because it so perfectly captures the curiosity, imagination, creativity, and antics of a child, and because it makes me laugh out loud—more brilliance!
How involved are you in the writing community?
HS: I would say very! I have been a member of SCBWI (The Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators) since 2012, and that started me on a path deeper and deeper into the woods of children’s literature. I have attended numerous conferences and webinars over the years and found my first critique group through our local chapter. Our group still meets regularly, and I wouldn’t be the writer I am today without them. Currently, I am the Critique Group/Meet & Greet Coordinator for the Eastern PA Chapter of SCBWI, where I have organized webinars and workshops as well as matched and mentored children’s writers and illustrators in peer critique groups, have contributed to our Chapter’s blog by conducting faculty interviews and writing articles, have acted as group facilitator in Chapter run events, and have spoken at conferences.
Outside of SCBWI, I am also a long-time member of the 12×12 Picture Book Challenge, I have attended webinars and courses through The Writing Barn and the Highlights Foundation, I have been a member of Storyteller Academy and Children’s Book Insider, I am a member of the Picture Book Pals promotion group, I am active on social media where I connect with other kid-lit creatives, and I am a regular visitor to my local library where I read tons and tons of children’s books.
Why do you believe picture books are important?
HS: Oh, for so many reasons! Picture books are often a child’s first introduction to reading (a “gateway” book, if you will) that will hopefully open the floodgates to the wonderful world of books. They not only introduce kids to the mechanics of books, but show them how reading can entertain, inform, and teach them something about themselves, others, and the world, all wrapped up in a beautiful piece of art. Plus, picture books are meant to be shared, so they foster a connection between reader and listener. I know some of my fondest memories of picture books are not just about the stories themselves, but of the time spent on the lap of a loved one or with a loved one on my lap.
I know you have another picture book set to be released next year. Can you share a little bit about it?
HS: Absolutely! My next under-contract project is another picture book called Gilbert and the Ghost. It’s about a boy who believes a ghost lives in his neighborhood, even though no one else believes. But Gilbert knows how hard it is to make friends, especially when you feel invisible, so he tries every gesture he can think of to befriend the ghost. This sweet tale of overcoming obstacles and finding friendship in mysterious places, for kids who often feel unseen, will be illustrated by Jess Mason and published by Beaming Books. The original publication date was set for fall 2024, but I recently found out that it will be delayed until fall 2026. I’m disappointed I won’t be able to share Gilbert with everyone for another three years, but these things happen in publishing!
Heather Stigall uses her experience with children and her degrees in Child Development, Psychology-based Human Relations, and Social Work to create stories that speak to kids. She is the Critique Group/Meet & Greet Coordinator for the Eastern PA SCBWI Chapter, a member of the 12×12 Picture Book Challenge, and a parent to five children and one pup.
When she’s not writing, you can find Heather hanging out with her kids (hopefully at the beach), reading, eating chocolate, baking, or creating all sorts of treasures.
Her debut picture book, PAISLEY’S BIG BIRTHDAY (Clavis Publishing) will be released in August 2023 and is/will be published in four additional languages. Her second picture book, GILBERT AND THE GHOST, (Beaming Books) is due out fall 2026.
Publisher: Flamingo Books/Penguin Books for Young Readers
Release Date: July 18, 2023
Format: Hardcover
Summary: A book-loving bear and a book-loving girl hatch a plan to find the perfect book for them to read together. But sneaking a bear into a school, a library, and a bookstore proves harder than they thought. Will Bear ever find a book of his very own, a book the color of ripe, red raspberries and delicious to read?
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary: Wearing his favorite hat, Mattison Mouse is happy to venture outside on a beautiful day. But soon the little mouse hears mysterious footsteps. Mattison and his animal friends help young children count from one to ten as, joyfully, the day’s counting adventures lead to a surprise birthday party.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
It is my extreme pleasure to welcome multi-published author/illustrator Sarah Kurpiel to Frog on a Blog. You may be familiar with Sarah’s other books, including her debut Lone Wolf, which received a starred review from School Library Journal and was a Summer 2020 Kids’ Indie Next Pick.
Today, we get to celebrate the birthday of her brand-new book Snake’s Big Mistake! Sarah has a knack for creating adorable animal characters and kid-relatable stories with lots of heart. She’s shared a lot in this interview, and I know you’re all going to love learning more about her, her new book, and her art process.You may even be inspired!
Congratulations on your new picture book Snake’s Big Mistake! What inspired the story?
Thanks so much for welcoming me on Frog on a Blog to talk about my latest picture book, Snake’s Big Mistake! The story is about a young snake determined to make the best, most spectacular, positively greatest clay pot in art class. But when disaster befalls his clay creation, he makes a terrible decision that just might ruin his friendship with Turtle forever. The story was loosely inspired by true events—sort of. Way back when I was in kindergarten, my class made little clay pots (nothing like the grand sculptures created by the kids in Snake’s class!). I don’t remember much about my kindergarten days, but I distinctly remember this project—how excited I was to sculpt and paint my clay pot, how impatient I felt waiting for it to be fired in the kiln so I could take it home and show my parents, and how disappointed and embarrassed I felt when I saw my finished clay pot sitting alongside all the much better ones. At the end of the day, we each went up to the table at the front of the classroom to find the clay pot marked with our initials on the bottom. I remember thinking: “Mine is so bad. Maybe I should take someone else’s instead.” Now, in the end, I did not. But what if I had? That’s how the story got its start. This small event in my life—making a little clay pot—was the source of so many big emotions for me as a kid—both good and bad. No wonder this project has stayed with me when most of my memories of kindergarten have not. The ups and downs of the experience felt like something plenty of kids could relate to, so I ran with the idea, and the result was Snake’s Big Mistake.
The characters in Snake’s Big Mistake are adorable! Tell us a little bit about your art process when creating the illustrations for the book.
Thank you! I love drawing cute animal characters. A few years ago, for no reason at all (which is the best reason to draw, in my opinion), I drew a “portrait” of a very serious snake sitting in a chair with perfect posture. It made me laugh. I knew right then that I wanted to draw more snakes in the future. So, I included an argyle sweater-sporting snake in my picture book Elephant’s Big Solo, which was published last year. When it came time to make a follow-up book, who better to take the lead this time around than Snake? I had a blast doodling him. I already knew what he looked like, so I focused on experimenting with creative ways a snake might express emotions through body language. Then, I thumbnailed the story, which is my favorite part of the picture book making process. I draw digitally in Photoshop using a Wacom tablet, so it’s easy to make adjustments and move things around as I change my mind. From there, I worked with my agents and editor to finalize the story. For the final art, I mostly used digital dry media brushes, and I applied overlays I created to give the characters added texture. While I needed to stay stylistically consistent with Elephant’s Big Solo, I also knew this book called for a brighter, bolder color palette to match Snake’s bright, bold personality. I’m pleased with the way the colors pop on the page.
As both an author and an illustrator, which comes easier to you, writing or illustrating, and which usually comes first when you get an idea for a story, the words or the art?
Illustrating comes much easier for me—not because I’m particularly confident in my drawing skills (I’m not), but rather because I enjoy it so much. If I wasn’t drawing for publication, I’d be drawing anyway. I tend to think about picture books wholistically from the start—including the cover, endpapers, title page, and so on. If I can’t envision the whole thing, then that’s usually a good sign I’m not ready to make the book. Writing the words, on the other hand, is a slow process for me. So, when I have a story idea, I usually start with a loose outline and maybe a few key lines, doodle the characters and thumbnail the story (which leads to new ideas), and then work out the precise words. My process isn’t always so straightforward as that, but it’s generally what happens.
Since you’re a librarian, you obviously love books. What are some of your favorite picture books? Or who are some of your favorite picture book authors or illustrators?
Oh, this is a tough question. There are too many to name! A few of my favorite picture books are Birdsong by Julie Flett, Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen, A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip Stead and illustrated by Erin Stead, Small in the City by Sydney Smith, and Truman by Jean Reidy and illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins. A few of my favorite picture book creators are Julie Flett, Rebecca Green, Lucy Ruth Cummins, Christian Robinson, Sydney Smith, Ebony Glenn, and Kate Berube.
Why do you feel picture books are important?
The books we love as kids have a way of staying with us all our lives. That’s a powerful thing. Picture books can help kids see themselves in the world, learn about people different from themselves, face complicated emotions, grow their imaginations, learn something fascinating, descend into a fit of giggles—or, in many cases, some combination of these things. I think no matter what age we are when we read them, picture books can have a lasting impact on us. When I come across a picture book with that just-right combination of words and pictures needed to express something authentic, it reminds me all over again why I love picture books so very much.
You’re not shy about sharing that you have a disability and use a power wheelchair. In what ways do you hope to inspire other authors and artists who may be struggling with disabilities too?
Every disabled person experiences disability differently, so I can only ever speak from my own lived experience. In my case, I’ve always loved to draw, but for most of my life, I considered it just a hobby because my disability significantly limits my arm strength and range of motion. But about seven years ago, I realized something important that changed everything for me: my limitations are my style (or, at least a big part of it). I can’t use most traditional media, so I work digitally; I can’t naturally draw a straight line, so I embrace the wobbly line; I don’t have the stamina to do study after study or draw all day, so I lean into simplicity and only spend my energy drawing things I truly want to draw. Once I reframed my mindset on my style, that’s when things started happening for me. I wish I knew earlier in my life that you don’t need to go to art school or use certain media or draw certain subjects or follow certain rules or wait for permission from anyone in order to make art and share it with the world. As long as it’s authentically you who is making the work, there’s no right or wrong way to make art.
Sarah Kurpiel is a librarian by day and self-taught picture book author/illustrator by night and weekend. Her stories are inspired by animals, nature, and everyday life. Sarah’s debut picture book, Lone Wolf (Greenwillow Books, 2020), received a starred review from the School Library Journal and was a Summer 2020 Kids’ Indie Next Pick. Her latest book, Snake’s Big Mistake (Greenwillow Books, 2023), was a May/June 2023 Kids’ Indie Next Pick and a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection. A few of Sarah’s favorite things include libraries, elephants, the ocean, drawing, flannel shirts, iced coffee, miniature books, summer, new pens, sci-fi stories, and the color green.
Title: Since the Baby Came: A Sibling’s Learning-to-Love Story in 16 Poems
Author: Kathleen Long Bostrom
Illustrator: Janet Samuel
Publisher: Waterbrook & Multnomah Kids
Release Date: May 2, 2023
Format: Hardcover
Summary: Since the Baby Came offers a unique take on a timeless topic. The heartfelt and humorous drama unfolds completely in verse, addressing the full range of emotions a young child experiences when a new baby joins the family—from surprise and confusion to feelings of neglect and jealousy to wholehearted tenderness and affection. The book also introduces young children to the playfulness and fun of various forms of poetry, from senryu to villanelle.
For more information and parent/teacher resources, click HERE!
Also, please come back and visit this Friday when Kathleen will stop by to talk about her process of writing a book in different poetic forms. Don’t miss it!
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary: After being called “just a worm” by two children, Worm embarks on a journey around the garden to prove them wrong. Debut author-illustrator Marie Boyd seamlessly incorporates concepts of nature, natural selection, habitats, and interdependence in this picture book beautifully illustrated with a cut-paper technique called quilling.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary:We might not know what the future holds, but the lyrical rhyming text in this beautiful book reassures readers that they have the resilience and strength to face whatever comes their way. Whimsical illustrations make for a captivating read-aloud or bedtime story. Inspired by the author’s own experience with anxiety, this book offers gentle wisdom applicable to both children and adults. End matter includes a discussion guide and activity ideas for managing worries.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary:From author Andrea Denish and illustrator BlueBean comes a touching story about new siblings, greetings, languages, and love.
A young child searches for the best way to greet the newest member of their family as they ask, “A special day. A special place. How will you greet a special face?” With rhyming text, heartwarming art, and nonfiction backmatter, The Way We Say Hello takes you as far as Tibet and as near as your front yard as you learn greeting after greeting.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Summary: When it’s time to write in class, one child feels like she has absolutely nothing to say. But suddenly—ker-plink!—one drop, one tiny thought, hits her. Before long, she’s caught in a shower of funny phrases, a whirlwind of adjectives and verbs, and a downpour of huge ideas. BOOM, CRASH! It’s a gigantic brainstorm of creativity for her to soak up and play in!
BRAINSTORM! is targeted to children in grades K-3, who are beginning to learn how to shape and sharpen their idea-generation and storytelling skills. It includes writing prompts and a glossary to help parents, teachers, and librarians encourage kids to have fun playing with new ideas.
Do you have a children’s picture book coming out soon? I’d love to wish it a Happy Book Birthday here on Frog on a Blog! CLICK for more information.
Lauri Fortino's Frog On A (B)Log 