Tag: Dan Santat

Picture Book List: 15 Sneaky-​Good Books About Ninjas

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I tricked bribed asked my kiddo to handle another Bonus Goody, and this is the result. Enjoy this list of picture books about ninjas.

Did we we miss any? If so, please share those titles in the comments. Thanks!

10 Little Ninjas by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Nate Wragg (Aug 2016)

From Goodreads: “A charming bedtime counting book about ten sneaky little characters who aren’t ready to go to sleep… until daddy calls the sensei to send them back to bed.

It may be bedtime, but these little ninjas aren’t tired. They’re sliding, swinging, and slipping out of bed! Can Daddy and the sensei ever tuck them in? Filled with mischievous fun, 10 Little Ninjas will take young readers from playtime to bedtime again and again. Kids will love the astronauts, tigers, cowboys, dragons and more!”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 1–3 years

 

The Boy Who Cried Ninja by Alex Latimer (Feb 2014)

From Goodreads: “In this quirky twist on The Boy Who Cried Wolf, a boys excuses turn out to have an unexpected element of truth.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–6 years

 

Gritty Ninja by Mary Nhin (Feb 2020)

From Goodreads: “Gritty Ninja gives up when things get too hard.

Find out what happens in this book about growing grit and becoming mentally tough. Life is hard! It’s even harder for children who are just trying to figure things out. The new children’s book series, Ninja Life Hacks, was developed to help children learn valuable life skills. Fun, pint-​size characters in comedic books easy enough for young readers, yet witty enough for adults.The Ninja Life Hacks book series is geared to kids 4–10. Perfect for young readers, students in primary school, and toddlers. Excellent resource for counselors, parents, and teachers alike.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–8 years

 

Hello Ninja by N.D. Wilson, illustrated by Forrest Dickison (July 2020)

From Goodreads: “Global bedtime fun for ninjas! Whether they’re dancing nimbly through the tropics or hobnobbing with the king of France, ninjas large and small will love this new bedtime story from bestselling author N. D. Wilson.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 1–5 years

 

Hansel and Gretel: Ninja Chicks by Corey Rosen Schwartz and Rebecca J. Gomez, illustrated by Dan Santat (May 2016)

From Goodreads: “These ninja chicks are anything but chicken!

When Hensel and Gretel’s dad gets snatched by a fox, the sisters put their ninja skills to work to track him down before he can be stir-fried.

But are these two little chicks ready to take on a dark tangled forest, a tricky house made of corn bread, and an even trickier fox?

This plucky pair isn’t giving up without a fight! KIYA!”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–8 years

 

Little Kunoichi the Ninja Girl by Sanae Ishida (Nov 2015)

From Goodreads: “Meet Little Kunoichi, a young ninja in training!

On a “super secret island” in a “super  super  secret village,” Little Kunoichi, is struggling at school. Inspired by tiny Chibi Samurai’s practice and skills, she works harder than ever and makes a friend. Together, they show the power of perseverance, hard work, and coöperation, and they wow the crowd at the Island Festival. Through beautiful watercolor illustrations, and a funny and endearing story, Little Kunoichi will capture the imagination of young ninjas-in-training.

The endnotes contain additional information about sumo wrestling, ninja training, and other aspects of Japanese language and culture.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–7 years

 

My Grandma’s a Ninja by Todd Tarpley, illustrated by Danny Chatzikonstantinou (Mar 2015)

From Goodreads: “A laugh-​out-​loud story about a karate-​chopping grandma that will have children wondering what exceptional, out-​of-​the-​box and surprising talents their grandparents might have!

When Ethan’s grandma suggests they take a zip line to school, Ethan realizes that his grandma is a little different. In fact, she’s a ninja! Ethan is soon the hit of the school when his grandma drops from the ceiling at show-​and-​tell, and teaches the kids karate moves and how to do back flips in slow motion.

But having a ninja for a grandma is not everything Ethan hoped it would be. When his grandma deflates his team’s soccer ball, everyone is upset—including Ethan. Why can’t he just have a regular grandma? he wonders, until his new karate moves help him out during the championship game and everyone is happy that his grandma isn’t quite ordinary.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

 

Nina the Neighborhood Ninja by Sonia Panigrahy, illustrated by Hazel Quintanilla (Oct 2016)

From Goodreads: “Nina’s a girl who takes charge. She uses her brain and her muscles to complete rescue missions. She doesn’t mind getting dirty and climbing trees. It’s all part of the life of the everyday girl superhero. Young readers are encouraged to recognize that the traits of being smart, strong, and speedy exist within themselves. Young girls will find Nina the Neighborhood Ninja to be a positive affirmation that they too can be superheroes.”

  • 44 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–7 years

 

Ninja! by Arree Chung (June 2014)

From Goodreads: “A ninja must be strong, courageous, and silent! He creeps through the house on a secret mission. There may be obstacles! But have no fear—a true ninja can overcome all challenges..”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–5 years

 

Ninja Camp by Sue Fliess, illustrated by Jen Taylor (Jan 2019)

From Goodreads: “Pack your bags and grab your gear: you’re going to Ninja Camp! Listen closely to the ninja master, who will teach you everything you need to know to become a ninja warrior-​but it won’t be easy. You’ll have to be sly and swift, strong and speedy, and only then will you become a Ninja of the Night!

This fun and energetic book will delight and entertain kids and parents alike with its clever, rhyming verse and action-​packed depictions of the coolest camp around. For fans of Ninja Red Riding Hood who are looking for a lesson in teamwork and cool stealth skills.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

 

The Ninja Club Sleepover by Laura Gehl, illustrated by MacKenzie Haley (July 2020)

From Goodreads: “We are ninjas and ninjas are brave!

Willa and her best friends love ninjas. They have matching ninja backpacks and ninja t‑shirts, and at school they even form a ninja club. But Willa has a secret: she’s a werewolf! Worried that no one will understand, she hides the truth from her friends. Until Val has a sleepover for her birthday…and it’s on the night of the full moon.

Willa is overcome with nerves. When an accident reveals that her friends were hiding secrets too, she realizes maybe it’s not so important to be a normal ninja. After all, a paranormal ninja can do so many cool things!

Join three remarkable friends as they discover that ALL of us are weird in our own special ways. Lovable and lively illustrations accompany this charming story that explores facing your fears and fitting in, encouraging readers to celebrate their true selves.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

 

North Pole Ninjas: Mission: Christmas! by Tyler Knott Gregson and Sarah Linden, illustrated by Piper Thibodeau (Oct 2018)

From Goodreads: “East meets North in  North Pole Ninjas , a yuletide call-​to-​arms to save the spirit of Christmas.

You may not know that Santa has a team of special elves, selected for their ability to help carry out top-​secret missions that are all about helping, giving, caring, and listening. Anyone who reads this book is called upon to help carry out those top-​secret missions with a bit of stealth and an open heart. The gorgeously illustrated picture book retells the legend of the North Pole Ninjas for new recruits. After reading the book, readers can print their own Ninja missions to carry out.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–8 years

 

The Secrets of Ninja School by Deb Pilutti (March 2018)

From Goodreads: “Ruby sets out to learn her own secret skill at Master Willow’s School for Ninjas in this charming picture book that celebrates confidence, creativity, and kindness.

Includes a craft for making a felt stuffed dragon!

Master Willow’s Ninja School is a place where junior ninja saplings must learn many important how to make themselves invisible, fight skillfully, meditate patiently and―most importantly―how to be brave and unleash their own secret talent. But Ruby’s no good at traditional ninja skills and she seems too afraid to conquer her fears. Can a quiet, gentle sapling really graduate from ninja school? Yes! Especially when she taps into her own special talents.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years 

 

The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz, illustrated by Dan Santat (Sept 2012)

From Goodreads: “Practice makes perfect in this kick-​butt fractured fairy tale.

Why does this wolf think he can come to town and blow all the houses down? These three little pigs just aren’t going to take it from that bully anymore! The first starts aikido lessons—he’ll make mincemeat out of that wolf! His brother learns a little jujitsu—he’ll chop that guy to pieces!

But when the wolf actually appears, it turs out these two pigs aren’t quite ready after all. Good thing their sister has been training every day to master some serious karate moves that save the day. KIYA!

Corey Rosen Schwartz serves up a fun combination of smart-​aleck dialogue and tongue-​in-​cheek rhymes that’ll have kids howling, and rising star Dan Santat’s spunky illustrations are sure to pack a punch!”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–6 years 

 

Wink, the Ninja Who Wanted to Be Noticed by J.C. Phillips (Mar 2009)

From Goodreads: “The happiest day of Wink’s life was when he was accepted to the Summer Moon School for Young Ninjas. He is sure that he will be a great ninja. Silence is the first lesson and everyone is very very silent … except for Wink. Stealth is the second lesson and everyone is very very stealthy … except for Wink. Finally, Wink decides that he will be silent and stealthy. But no one notices! What?s the point of being a great ninja if no one notices? Maybe Wink wasn’t meant to be a ninja? This daring debut is an adventure-​lover’s dream”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–7 years

 

2024 ALA (San Diego) Conference Report

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It’s been some time since I’ve been to an ALA conference (Orlando, I think and maybe Chicago before that). But in my new role as Editorial Director of Bushel & Peck Books, I was happy to cross the entire country and spend a week in San Diego. Here’s some of what I saw and did. Enjoy!

**This is not a chronological accounting but rather organized by how/​when I found the photos I wanted to share.**

 

Wizards of the Coast had some GREAT swag. I even scored a physical copy of Monster Manual on the final day!

 

Here’s the Bushel & Peck Books booth, with the bus that drew crowds nonstop. Yes, we bought a bus from the city of Fresno and remade it into a bookmobile. We had a constant flow of people popping in to see what it looked like inside.

 

Rebecca Walker was signing Time for Us, a picture book about children’s caregivers.

 

Of course, Dan Santat was there doing a ton of signings. We chatted a bit about him doing an OPB interview at some point. Fingers crossed that his schedule permits that! (Sidekicks is a fun, fun book.)

 

Yep, there were robot things buzzing around.

 

Here’s Vicki Johnson, the author of Molly’s Tuxedo.

 

Here’s author/​illustrator Steve Breen signing copies of Sky & Ty.

 

Kate Messner signed copies of The Kids in Mrs. Z’s Class: Emma McKenna, Full Out.

 

Sophie Blackall signed copies of her picture book Farmhouse.

 

Blink-​182 was playing a show one of the conference nights, and Petco Park was right by my hotel, so I sat outside and heard a couple of songs while watching the evening go by.

 

Bushel & Peck had a Pop Top Stage event with a lot of their authors. This is David & Stephanie Miles–the owners–introducing the event.

 

The author of the Stormbringer series (G.R. Boden) did a signing.

 

UNLV professor and literary rock star Jarret Keene signed copies of Decide & Survive: The Attack on Pearl Harbor and Heroes of World War II: 25 True Stories of Unsung Heroes Who Fought for Freedom while charming the crowd.

 

Carole Boston Weatherford was there, too, signing Bros and other books.

 

It was hard to miss the promo for Sherri’s cool-​looking new picture book.

 

I got to see parts of some of the Chapter One Stage events as I hustled from meeting to meeting. Wish I could’ve stayed longer at this one!

 

Have you read The Maid and the Crocodile? Jordan Ifueko was signing copies at ALA.

 

Ngozi Ukazu was signing as well. Barda is terrific!

 

Lee Wind was signing copies of The Gender Binary Is a Big Lie: Infinite Identities around the World.

 

Kwame Alexander stopped by the Bushel & Peck Books booth and chatted for a while. He’s a hoot!

 

Lesa Cline-​Ransome mugs for the camera with a fan whose copy of One Big Open Sky just got signed.

 

This was one of the coolest booths going–Fred Koehler’s Ready Chapter One is worth checking out if you don’t already know about it.

 

Here’s Joyce Uglow (in the dino mask/​hat), a new Bushel & Peck Books author doing a signing with the ARCs of the picture book STUCK!, which is about the La Brea Tar Pits. I was working on the final edits for this right up until I got on the plane to head to CA.

 

Kemper Donovan signed copies of Loose Lips.

 

Kate DePalma signed copies of Let’s Celebrate! Special Days Around the World. Like a pro, she blew the ink dry before handing over a signed book to a fan.

 

Jenni L. Wash was signing copies of Ace, Marvel, Spy: A Novel of Alice Marble.

 

Ellen had another good book to launch. Her fans were everywhere!

 

Yep, San Diego is a sports city. Confirmed!

 

And I thought gas was expensive in Florida.…

 

I made it fairly far from the conference center in my quest to find great local food. There were tons of fantastic options here.

 

I made it to Balboa Park and visited a lot of the museums (after the conference). Here’s the Old Globe Theater, which wasn’t running anything the week I was there. 🙁

 

The Gaslamp District was right next to the conference center, so I visited this area many, many times for food, meetings, and just ambiance.

 

Here’s a cool LEGO sculpture at one of the Balboa park museums. I think this was at the Fleet Science Center.

 

Loved seeing this promo for Loren Long’s The Yellow Bus. (OPB created some activities to pair with it–check those out right here.)

 

And here’s the Bushel & Peck Books bookmobile, driving away from the convention center and heading back home to Fresno.

 

And that’s pretty much it, folks. Maybe next time I’ll get away from my press’ booth a bit more to get a wider range of photos. We’ll see!

Five Five-​Word Picture Book Reviews: A Wild Windy Night; If You Run Out of Words; Mama in the Moon; Roar-​Choo!; This Is Not My Lunchbox!

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Things went sideways with my plans for May, so we’ll launch the month with the increasingly (in)famous Five-​W0rd Reviews instead of our regularly scheduled joint PB review.

Here we go!

Author: Yui Abe
Illustrator: Yui Abe
Museyon
1 April 2024
40 pages

Ryan’s five-​word review: Windswept fun–bedtime fears goodbye!

4 out of 5 yawns

Author: Felicita Sala
Illustrator: Felicita Sala
Harry N. Abrams
9 April 2024
48 pages

Ryan’s five-​word review: Worried child, wonderful word-​weaving dad.

4.5 out of 5 bedtime questions

Author: Doreen Cronin
Illustrator: Brian Cronin
Rocky Pond Books
30 January 2024
40 pages

Ryan’s five-​word review: Moonlight magic for tiny worries.

4.25 out of 5 Mama hugs

Author: Charlotte Cheng
Illustrator: Dan Santat
Rocky Pond Books
9 April 2024
40 pages

Ryan’s five-​word review: Cold-​ridden dragon learns to rest.

4.25 out of 5 cups of tea

Author: Jennifer Dupuis
Illustrator: Carol Schwartz
Tilbury House
16 April 2024
32 pages

Ryan’s five-​word review: Tasty text–terrific animal treats.

4 out of 5 wiggly worms

Picture Book List: 16 Books About Classic Halloween Monsters

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My dad’s been busy with some book deadlines, and I like spooky things, so I offered to help out with this month’s Bonus Goody.

Enjoy the list of spooktacular picture books!

Bonaparte Falls Apart by Margery Cuyler, Illustrated by Will Terry (August 2020)

From Goodreads: “‘Bonaparte is having a tough time. It’s hard for this young skeleton to just hang loose when he can’t keep hold of himself. When he plays catch, his throwing arm literally takes a flyer. Eating lunch can be a real jaw-​dropping occasion. How can he start school when he has so many screws loose? Luckily, Bonaparte hit the bone-​anza when it came to his friends. Franky Stein, Black Widow, and Mummicula all have some boneheaded ideas to help pull him together. But will it be enough to boost his confidence and get him ready for the first day of school?”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 3–6

Cinderella Skeleton by Robert D. San Souci, Illustrated by David Catrow (September 2004)

From Goodreads: “‘This ghoulish gal will steal your heart–just like she stole Prince Charnel’s!

Poor Cinderella Skeleton! Her evil stepsisters treat her with scorn and work her from dawn till dusk. But when Prince Charnel hosts his famous Halloween Ball, Cindy finally gets her chance to shine. With the help of a good witch, Cinderella Skeleton is transformed into the belle of the ball and steals the
prince’s heart. Then just as the sun peeks over the horizon, she must dash away! Will Prince Charnel ever find his true love again?

Master storyteller Robert D. San Souci and award-​winning illustrator David Catrow have dreamed up a hilarious fractured fairy tale about the most dreadful darling you’ve ever seen.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 4–8

First Broom by Kallie George, Illustrated by Joelle Murray (June 2022)

From Goodreads: “‘Little witch is so excited by her new present for Halloween night — a new broom! But learning to fly a broom is harder than you think, especially when you’re just a little witch. Will witch and broom learn how to work together to fly up high in the sky? A sweet and silly rhyming story full of gentle Halloween fun!”

Pages: 24
Reading Age: 3–5

Hardly Haunted by Jessie Sima (July 2021)

From Goodreads: “‘From the bestselling creator of Not Quite Narwhal comes a delightfully spooky story about an old house who wants to be a home…even if her new family isn’t what she expected.

House has a problem.

She’s a little spooky. She’s a little cobwebby. Oh, no! What if she’s haunted?

She’s not sure, but…her hinges creak. Her pipes bang. And on windy days, the branches scritch-​scratch at her windows. She tries to hold her breath and be as still as possible. If she’s on her best behavior, maybe a family will move in.

How will House ever find a family that doesn’t mind being haunted?”

Pages: 48
Reading Age: 2–6

How Spider Saved Halloween by Robert Kraus (January 1988)

From Goodreads: “‘As Halloween draws near, poor Spider cannot find a costume, but Ladybug and Fly help him remedy the situation, and save the day.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 6–8

I Need My Monster by Amanda Noll, Illustrated by Howard McWilliam (July 2019)

From Goodreads: “‘A unique monster-​under-​the-​bed story with the perfect balance of giggles and shivers, this picture book relies on the power of humor over fear, appeals to a child’s love for creatures both alarming and absurd, and glorifies the scope of a child’s imagination. One night, when Ethan checks under his bed for his monster, Gabe, he finds a note from him instead: “Gone fishing. Back in a week.” Ethan knows that without Gabe’s familiar nightly scares he doesn’t stand a chance of getting to sleep, so Ethan interviews potential substitutes to see if they’ve got the right equipment for the job—pointy teeth, sharp claws, and a long tail—but none of them proves scary enough for Ethan. When Gabe returns sooner than expected from his fishing trip, Ethan is thrilled. It turns out that Gabe didn’t enjoy fishing because the fish scared too easily.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 3–6

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt by Riel Nason, Illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler (September 2020)

From Goodreads: “When you’re a quilt instead of a sheet, being a ghost isn’t easy! But one Halloween day, everything changes. The little ghost who was a quilt embarks on an adventure that no other ghost can experience… And what if it’s okay to be different?”

Pages: 48
Reading Age: 3–7

The Little Kitten by Nicola Killen (July 2020)

From Goodreads: “‘Ollie and her cat Pumpkin are out frolicking on a beautiful fall day when they come upon a tiny kitten shivering in a pile of fallen leaves. Ollie warms the kitten up and the three become fast friends, but when Ollie sees “Lost Kitten” posters hanging on the trees in the forest, she knows she has to help her new friend get home. As Halloween draws nearer, magic is afoot, and Ollie’s good deed is rewarded in an unexpected way.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 2–4

Moldilocks and the Three Scares: A Zombie Tale by Lynne Marie, Illustrated by David Rodriguez Lorenzo (March 1998)

From Goodreads: “‘A fun, shivery take on a favorite fairy tale! 

Forget Goldilocks and the three bears—MOLDILOCKS and the THREE SCARES are here, in a delightfully zombie-​tastic new version of the popular story. Papa Scare (a monster), Mama Scare (a mummy), and Baby Scare (a vampire) live in a haunted house where they eat finger sandwiches and alpha-​bat soup. One night, they go out to walk their dog (a bloodhound, of course) to let their soup cool down. While they’re away, in walks the zombie Moldilocks, looking for food, a chair, and a bed that’s just right. Kids will love this hauntingly funny story with its surprise ending!”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 3–7

Peanut Butter & Brains: A Zombie Culinary Tale by Joe McGee, Illustrated by Charles Santoso (August 2015)

From Goodreads: “‘Reginald isn’t like the other zombies who shuffle through Quirkville, scaring the townspeople and moaning for BRAINSSSSS! The only thing Reginald’s stomach rumbles for is sticky peanut butter and sweet jelly. He tries to tell his zombie pals that there’s more to life than eating brains, but they’re just not interested. Will Reginald find a way to bring peace to Quirkville and convince the other zombies that there’s nothing better than peanut butter and jelly?”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 3–8

Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, Illustrated by Axel Scheffler (August 2001)

From Goodreads: “‘This fun family read-​aloud i s the perfect way to start Halloween celebrations and an ideal gift book. A sweet story of quick wits, friendship, and inclusivity from the creators of The Gruffalo!

The witch and her cat are happily flying through the sky on a broomstick when the wind picks up and blows away the witch’s hat, then her bow, and then her wand!  Luckily, three helpful animals find the missing items, and all they want in return is a ride on the broom.  But is there room on the broom for so many friends?  And when disaster strikes, will they be able to save the witch from a hungry dragon?”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 2–5

Sir Simon: Super Scarer by Cale Atkinson (August 2022)

From Goodreads: “‘A delightful, funny story of friendship, ghost chores, a spooky house and a professional haunter.

Meet Sir Simon, Super Scarer. He’s a professional ghost who has been transferred to his first house. And just in time! He was getting tired of haunting bus stops and forests and potatoes. And to top it off, this house is occupied by an old lady — they’re the easiest to haunt!

But things don’t go as planned when it turns out a KID comes with this old lady. Chester spots Simon immediately and peppers him with questions. Simon is exasperated… until he realizes he can trick Chester into doing his ghost chores. Spooky sounds, footsteps in the attic, creaks on the stairs — these things don’t happen on their own, you know!

After a long night of haunting, it seems that maybe Chester isn’t cut out to be a ghost, so Simon decides to help with Chester’s human chores. Turns out Simon isn’t cut out for human chores either.

But maybe they’re both cut out to be friends …”

Pages: 48
Reading Age: 4–7

Trick or Treat, Crankenstein by Samantha Berger, Illustrated by Dan Santat (August 2021)

From Goodreads: “‘What we have here is a bad case of stripes. One of the worst I’ve ever seen!’ Camilla Cream loves lima beans, but she never eats them. Why? Because the other kids in her school don’t like them. And Camilla Cream is very, very worried about what other people think of her. In fact, she’s so worried that she’s about to break out in…a bad case of stripes!”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 4–8

Vampenguin by Lucy Ruth Cummins (July 2021)

From Goodreads: “‘On a Saturday morning, baby Dracula visits the zoo with his family, where baby Penguin lives with hers. But these intrepid young adventurers are not content with staying in their proper places.

Instead, baby Dracula slips into the Penguin House to spend the day eating, swimming, and hanging around, while baby Penguin waddles into the stroller to explore the rest of the zoo. Dracula’s family doesn’t even notice the switch—will they bring the right baby home?

Observant and adventurous young readers will love this tale of the shenanigans that happen when parents’ backs are turned.”

Pages: 48
Reading Age: 4–8

Vampirina Ballerina‑A Vampirina Ballerina Book by Anne Marie Pace (August 2012)

From Goodreads: “‘Oh, to be a ballerina! It’s a challenge for any little girl, but even more so if you happen to be a vampire like Vampirina. First of all, you have to find a class that meets at night. Then you have to figure out how to perfect your form when you can’t see yourself in the mirror? And then there’s wearing pink (not the most flattering of colors if you happen to be undead) and that nagging urge to take a little nip out of the other dancers. And worse of all STAGE FRIGHT!!!”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 2–7

Where’s My Mummy? by Carolyn Crimi, Illustrated by John Manders (July 2009)

From Goodreads: “‘Little Baby Mummy wants just one more game of hide-​and-​shriek with Big Mama Mummy before bedtime. The night is deep and dark, full of friendly creatures that click their clacky teeth and whoosh past on flippy-​floppy wings. But who will comfort Little Baby Mummy if a small, scritchy-​scratchy someone gives him a scare? Big Mama Mummy, of course! Fresh, comical illustrations complement this ever-​so-​slightly suspenseful story with a satisfying ending.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 2–6

Picture Book List: 20 Heartwarming Books for Valentine’s Day

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Love is in the air here at OPB, and we’re sharing that love with you via a wonderful list of heartwarming picture books.

If we missed one that makes your heart melt, please drop the name of that title in the comments. We always appreciate hearing what books you love!

A Crankenstein Valentine by Samantha Berger, illustrated by Dan Santat (December 2014)

From Goodreads: “Even the crankiest monsters have hearts in this Valentine tale from fan favorite author Samantha Berger and Caldecott medalist illustrator Dan Santat.

Cheesy cards, allergy-​inducing bouquets, and heart-​shaped everything? YECHHHH! It’s enough to turn anyone into a monster! An ordinary kid becomes Crankenstein on the most lovey-​dovey, yuckiest day of the year: Valentine’s Day.

Can Crankenstein find a way to turn his sour day sweet? Can a monster find a little love in his heart? Find out in the monstrously funny A Crankenstein Valentine.”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 3–6

The Day It Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond (December 2006)

From Goodreads: “A creative and sweet story, perfect for Valentine’s Day, that helps open the hearts of young readers. From the beloved illustrator of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.

One day it rains hearts, and Cornelia Augusta catches them. She realizes that the hearts are perfect for making valentines. Each heart is special in its own way, and Cornelia Augusta knows exactly who to send them to: her animal friends.

A fun way to spark creativity and thoughtfulness! The perfect book to pair with Valentine’s Day crafts.”

Pages: 36
Reading Age: 2–5

Hedgehugs by Lucy Tapper & Steve Wilson (September 2014)

From Goodreads: “Horace and Hattie are hedgehogs, and the very best of friends. Together, they make daisy chains, splash in puddles, and have tea parties. But there is one thing they can’t do—hug! They are just too spiky. Throughout the seasons, these two hedgehogs will try many different ways of hugging. But will Horace and Hattie find a hug that feels just right?”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 1–4

Henry in Love by Peter McCarty (December 2009)

From Goodreads: “Henry is a bit of a dreamer and not much of a talker.Then there’s Chloe, who says what she thinks and knows how to turn a spectacular cartwheel.

This is the story of how one blueberry muffin makes all the difference.”

Pages: 48
Reading Age: 2–7

I’ll Hold Your Hand by Maggie C. Rudd, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri (February 2022)

From Goodreads: “This sweet picture book celebrates the unbreakable bond of a parent’s support for a child though life’s milestones, from learning to walk to the first day of school and all the highs and lows in between.

From the night you arrive to your first night away,
from learning to crawl to healing a broken heart,
and for all the highs and lows in between…
through every season, every challenge, and every joy, you are loved.

With sweet, lyrical text and stunning art, I’ll Hold Your Hand celebrates the unbreakable bond of family, and all the ways our actions can say “I love you” louder than words.”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 3–6

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst, illustrated by Joanne Lew-​Vriethoff (October 2018)

From Goodreads: “A picture book about the unbreakable connections between loved ones–updated with new illustrations and an afterword from the author.

A mother tells her two children that they’re all connected by an invisible string. “That’s impossible!” the children insist, but still they want to know more: “What kind of string?” The answer is the simple truth that binds us all: An Invisible String made of love. Even though you can’t see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart, and know that you are always connected to the ones you love. Does everybody have an Invisible String? How far does it reach? Does it ever go away?”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 3–7

Kisses and Cuddles by Little Bee Books (December 2015)

From Goodreads: “A little penguin loves to do many things during his fun day, but nothing beats getting kisses and cuddles from his mama!

Follow a little penguin as he spends his day doing everything he loves–such as eating pancakes, playing with his toys, drinking hot chocolate, spotting rainbows, and more. But what does he love the most? Kisses and cuddles from his mama!”

Pages: 16
Reading Age: 1–4

Lilly’s Chocolate Heart by Kevin Henkes (December 2003)

From Goodreads: “Lilly loves her chocolate heart.
Will she save it?
Forever and ever?
What do you think?”

Pages: 24
Reading Age: 1–4

Llama Llama I Love You by Anna Dewdney (December 2014)

From Goodreads: “Beloved storyteller Anna Dewdney shows young children sweet ways to express their love on Valentine’s Day and all year round in Llama Llama I Love You!

With short and simple rhyming text, the Llama Llama board books introduce Llama Llama to babies and toddlers before they’re ready for longer full-​length stories. And their small size and durable pages are perfect for little hands.

In Llama Llama I Love You, little llama shows his friends and family how much he loves them with heart-​shaped cards and lots of hugs. What could be sweeter than Llama Llama on Valentine’s Day?”

Pages: 14
Reading Age: 1–3

Love Is My Favorite Thing by Emma Chichester Clark (August 2015)

From Goodreads: “Starring an enthusiastic pooch whose joy, optimism and love know no bounds, this lively picture book is based on Emma Chichester Clark’s own dog, and joyfully celebrates unconditional love.

Plum has lots of favorite things—catching sticks, her bear, her bed—but really, LOVE is her absolute favourite thing. She loves her family and all the things they do together. Sometimes, however, Plum’s exuberance causes trouble, and she just can’t help being naughty. But fortunately, love is such a great thing that even when she makes mistakes, Plum’s family still adores her.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 2–6

The Love Letter by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins (October 2019)

From Goodreads: “Fall in love with this endearing and adorable picture book that illustrates how a little bit of heart goes a long way to making the world a better place.

Hedgehog, Bunny, and Squirrel are best friends. One day, they each find a letter. But not just any letter…

A love letter.

My word!

My whiskers!

Aww, nuts!

Someone loves them. But who? The answer may surprise you!

Celebrated author Anika Aldamuy Denise and beloved illustrator Lucy Ruth Cummins deliver this heartwarming tale about a wonderful mix-​up that reminds us of the joys of friendship.

Makes for a perfect Valentine’s Day gift, or for any time you want to tell someone in your life how much you love them!”

Pages: 36
Reading Age: 1–5

Love Monster by Rachel Bright (December 2014)

From Goodreads: “Featuring the only Monster in Cutesville, LOVE MONSTER is a wonderfully warm and witty look at how sometimes, when you least expect it, love finds you… From a phenomenal picture book talent.

It can be tough being the only funny-​looking Monster in Cutesville, but this Monster is not one to hang around and feel sorry for himself, so he’s off – out into the big wide world to look for someone to love him.
He looks high, he looks low and he looks everywhere in-​between, but it’s only when he’s just about to give up that he finally finds what he is looking for…

Featuring an instantly charming main character who will appeal to children and adults alike, LOVE MONSTER is a warm and witty tale about the power of taking action from a terrific talent new to the HarperCollins list.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 1–4

Mostly Monsterly by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Scott Magoon (August 2010)

From Goodreads: “Bernadette might seem like an ordinary monster, but sometimes she likes to do some very unmonsterlike things, like pick flowers. And pet kittens. And bake.

When the time comes for Bernadette to go to Monster Academy, she’s just a teensy bit nervous. Her classmates just don’t understand her. They’d rather uproot trees than sing friendship songs. And they prefer fried snail goo to Bernadette’s homemade cupcakes with sprinkles. Can Bernadette find a way to make friends at school and still be herself?”

Pages: 40
Reading Age: 4–8

Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds (December 2015)

From Goodreads: “Little Miss planted a kiss …

One small act of love blooms into something bigger and more dazzling than Little Miss could have ever imagined in this epic journey about life, kindness, and giving.

New York Times bestselling author Amy Krouse Rosenthal and award-​winning illustrator Peter H. Reynolds have teamed together for the first time, creating what may soon prove to be a perennial favorite.”

Pages: 36
Reading Age: 1–5

Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink by Diane deGroat (December 2022)

From Goodreads: “This Valentine’s Day favorite read-​aloud will prompt lots of giggles, as well as discussions on kindness and forgiveness.

Gilbert is all set to write fifteen friendly valentine cards to his classmates. But how can he write a nice poem for the boy who tweaked his nose, or the girl who made fun of his glasses? Instead, Gilbert writes two not-​so-​nice valentines…and signs the wrong name on both!

When his classmates read his poems, their feelings are hurt, and Gilbert’s prank quickly turns into pandemonium. But with the help of a friend and an honest apology, there’s always time for a change of heart on Valentine’s Day.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 4–7

The Runaway Valentine by Tina Casey, illustrated by Theresa Smythe (January 2001)

From Goodreads: “Victor has the glitziest glitter, the shiniest sparkles, and a special button that can play twenty different love songs! He’s the fanciest valentine in the card shop. That is, until he falls off the rack and gets swept into a dusty corner. And when he marches out of the shop and sets out on his own, he tatters his corners, frazzles his edges, and loses all his lace!But no matter what happens to him, one person after another finds that Victor is just what they were looking for. And through a wild Valentine’s Day journey he brings them all together — which, after all, is what valentines do best.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 3–6

Slugs in Love by Susan Pearson, illustrated by Kevin O’Malley (November 2012)

From Goodreads: “Marylou loves everything about Herbie—how his slime trail glistens in the dark, how he can stretch himself thin to squeeze inside the cellar window, and how he always finds the juiciest tomatoes. But Marylou is a shy slug. How can she get Herbie to notice her? Find out how Marylou woos her beloved in this must-​have love story that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.”

Pages: 34
Reading Age: 4–7

This Is Not a Valentine by Carter Higgins, illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins (December 2017)

From Goodreads: “This book is not a valentine. It doesn’t have lacey edges or sugary hearts. But it is full of lucky rocks, secret hiding spots, and gumball machine treasures. This is a book about waiting in line and wishing for cinnamon buns. About recognizing that if you care so much about someone not thinking you care, maybe you really do. But wait—isn’t that exactly what love is about? Maybe this book is sort of a valentine after all. A testament to handmade, wacky, bashful, honest love—sure to win over the hearts of all readers—this offering from debut picture book author Carter Higgins and children’s book veteran Lucy Ruth Cummins is the perfect gift to celebrate every relationship, from parent to child, sibling to sibling, partner to partner, crush to crush.”

Pages: 48
Reading Age: 5–8

Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug by Jonathan Stutzman, illustrated by Jay Fleck (March 2019)

From Goodreads: “Meet Tiny, a diminutive but determined T‑Rex in a big world, as he embraces all obstacles against him in his quest to learn how to hug.”

Pages: 48
Reading Age: 2–5

Worm Loves Worm by J.J. Austrian, illustrated by Mike Curato (January 2016)

From Goodreads: “Perfect for fans of And Tango Makes Three and The Sissy Duckling, this irresistible picture book is a celebration of love in all its splendid forms from debut author J. J. Austrian and the acclaimed author-​illustrator of Little Elliot, Big City, Mike Curato.

You are cordially invited to celebrate the wedding of a worm … and a worm.

When a worm meets a special worm and they fall in love, you know what happens next: They get married! But their friends want to know—who will wear the dress? And who will wear the tux?

The answer is: It doesn’t matter. Because Worm loves Worm.”

Pages: 32
Reading Age: 3–7

 

Conference Roundup: SCBWI Florida 2022 Conference Report

On By Only Picture BooksIn Conference Roundups4 Comments

Normally, the third Monday of the month means an Industry Insider Interview, which is me doing a deep dive into the career of a single editor, agent, or other picture book industry person. But since I just got back from the rousing success that was the May 2022 SCBWI Florida conference in Orlando, I’m instead creating a new OPB feature–a Conference Roundup–since I want to share some of the best nuggets of industry wisdom that I jotted down during my three days there. Some comes from agents, some comes from editors, some comes from authors, and some comes from illustrators–but it’s ALL good.

To help give you a sense of what it was like to be there, I’ll include a few photos, as appropriate.

**Everything listed below came directly from my scribbled notes. Any mistakes or misunderstandings are likely mine. If you’re one of the folks I quoted below and you’d like me to amend my quote, please just let me know!**

Bruce Coville, author of My Teacher Is an Alien

“In the words of Winston Churchill to the people of England during WWII, never give up, never give up, never, never, never give up.”

“One of the most pernicious ideas that spreads in American culture is the meme of the starving artist. You can only do good work when you have to type in the cold with little fingerless gloves–there’s a reason for this idea. It’s culturally useful. Artists who are doing their job right are dangerous. And the whole point of the meme of the starving artist is to keep us unequal, less able to do our important, life-​changing work. Whether it’s good or bad, it’s supposed to  make you think. There’s nothing the dominant culture wants less than people who think, because you can’t think without knowing if you need to change. Teachers have this horrible dual obligation. They’re supposed to maintain the status quo AND teach kids. You can’t do both. They are mutually exclusive. If these people learn to think, they’re going to think about all the stuff that’s going on that’s wrong. But our job as artists is to lead kids to think by the stories we give.”

Brett Duquette, Executive Editor of Little Bee Books

“Revising can be hard. One idea is to take it like a cake in layers. Don’t try and do everything at the same time. Because if you’re like me, all you’ll do is just work on making verbs and nouns prettier. Have a language layer or a plot layer or a character layer. It might help to think about it like you’re painting.”

“When I was younger, my brother gave me a photo of myself as a baby and said, Would you be mean to that person? So, if you’re hard on yourself, look at a photo of yourself as a child, and remember that you deserve love. Be gentle to yourself.”

Sophia Gholz, author of Bug on a Rug

“I love to cross promote between a school and a bookstore…I’ll call up a store in a nearby city. I’m Sophia Gholz. I’m a children’s book author. I’m going to possibly do some local school events. I would love to do a book signing, or just stop by and say hello and maybe sign some stock. If they say yes, follow up with an email that says, ‘Do you guys have any local schools that in particular you’ve worked with, or that you recommend I reach out to?’ Sometimes they’ll put you in contact with the school, but sometimes I’ll find a local school nearby myself. Hey, I’m Sophia Gholz. I’ve already spoken to this local bookstore, I would love to come in while I’m in town, and do a school visit or two. I’d love to present to your kids. And while I’m there, you know that I’ve already spoken to so-​and-​so bookstore and they’re happy to support and supply books for the school visit. The school is going to love this, and the bookstore is going to love you coming in, too.”

“Myth number five is that authors must be present on social media. Authors do NOT have to be present on social media. In fact, I know some authors who have walked away because it was toxic–Twitter, specifically, but sometimes all social media. Yet their publisher said, We would like you to be back on at least Twitter and Instagram. So, I’d say Twitter and Instagram are pretty important. Personally, I think social media is a big deal. Do you HAVE to be on it? No, but you can have a presence on all the platforms and not be active. Still, I think having a presence is vital because that’s the first way people are going to look you up these days. So, even if you just have a page with a link to your website, I think it’s important to at least have a presence. That being said, I think it’s important to engage.”

Aneeka Kalia, Associate Editor @ Viking Children’s Books

“Be patient, be persistent, and be kind to yourself.”

Rajani LaRocca, author of Red, White, and Whole

“Be open to new ideas but also to input.”

“Joy McCullough was my mentor, and she gave me an amazing edit letter [on Midsummer’s Mayhem]. She loved my book, but her big suggestion was to get rid of a main character…I was so terrified. But I started two revisions, one with him, one without him. Three chapters in, I was like, He’s got to go. And once more, I rewrote the book that took me three years to write…in the end, I had four agent offers, and I chose Brent Taylor.”

Laurent Linn, Author and Art Director at Simon & Schuster

“Be true to your purpose. Because your purpose is one of the few things in life that you control.”

“Be honest with your readers or readers who aren’t reading yet…no matter what their age or stage of development.”

Jacqui Lipton, owner of Raven Quill Literary Agency

“Be professional. It’s so easy to get angry with agents and editors in the industry, and then go out on Twitter and do crazy things. Do that in the privacy of your own thoughts.”

If you like what Jacqui has to say, you’re in luck–she’s the subject of the June 2022 Insider Interview!

Pat Zietlow Miller, author of Be Strong

“Read books by people with different life experiences than yours.”

“Support other authors no matter where they are in their journey.”

“Finding time [to write] was actually the hardest one for me. When I started, I had a full-​time corporate job, I had two kids at home, and I wanted to see them before school, after school, and on weekends. So, the time that was left was after they were in bed, because I wasn’t going to not see my kids. Something else had to go. For me, no television, less exercising, less socializing, less sleeping…I’ve heard Kate DiCamillo talk, and before she became KATE DICAMILLO, she got up at an extremely early hour and wrote before she went to her day job. That would never work for me. I’m not a morning person–can’t do it. But I could do late at night. I know authors who write entire novels in little bits and pieces of time. While they’re in the carpool line waiting to pick up the kids or while they’re freezing in the bleachers while watching their kids practice hockey.”

If you want to hear more from Pat, you’re in luck. Pat will be the subject of our June 2022 Author Interview. Watch for it in a few weeks!

Dan Santat, author/​illustrator of The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend

“Cultivate a sense of taste. Look into all things–movies, music, books. Find out why something is good, why something is bad. If something isn’t to your taste or your liking, find out why other people like it. Because when you’re editing your own work, and you’re asking yourself Is this good? you can base that off of the knowledge gained from other things. The other one is always continue to grow. You can never settle. I’ve been in this business for 18 years. And over time, if you do the same things over and over again, the process gets stale. So, always evolve. Don’t be afraid to change.”

“When I first wrote my first book, I had a perception in my mind of what being a child was like, but it didn’t match what children actually were thinking. What happens is that when you get older, you have this really polished, idealized view of what your childhood was like. And then when you actually see kids, it’s messy, it’s chaotic. But that’s the true way kids are–you have to really get yourself into that mindset.”

“I don’t create a character and then write a story. I create a concept, and then I find a character that creates the biggest conflict to that concept. So, create a character that best reflects the idea you want to express. Let’s say you have a story about needing to be quicker, or that things must be done quickly. A turtle would be the greatest adversary to something like that. Being messy, or a story about neatness? A garbage truck would be a great character that has to deal with that issue. Falling? Humpty Dumpty. It’s sad, but if I just say Humpty Dumpty, the first thing you think of is the fall, right?”

Taryn Souders, author of Dead Possums Are Fair Game

“[At school visits], it’s really cute because you are their favorite author that day. And they will say You’ve been my favorite author my whole life! and I’ve even gone to them and asked, Really? Which one of my books is your favorite? And they’ll say, I haven’t read any of them yet. So, you’re going to be their favorite whether they’ve heard of you or not. And it’s great. You’ll never leave a school visit feeling deflated.”

“You definitely want to make sure that you are practicing in a mirror. It’s so cliché, I know it. But you’re going to think you’re making a really friendly expression and you’re actually terrifying or something. So you want to look in a mirror. Make sure that whatever expression you’re making throughout your presentation, it’s engaging and portrays, Hey, I’m fun, I’m safe!”

Jennifer Swanson, author of Footprints Across the Planet

“Find a critique group and get them to tell you stuff. But listen–your job is to tell the story correctly. If they don’t get it, you didn’t do your job right.”

“For those of you that don’t know, educational publishing, is typically work for hire, which means they give you a flat fee, you get no royalties, and they come up with ideas. They tell you what to write. Trade publishing, of course, is royalties with an advance, and you come up with an idea. So, there’s a difference between the two. But if you want to get into nonfiction, a really great place to start is educational publishing.”

Joyce Sweeney, literary agent at The Seymour Agency

“Go ahead and feel the sorrow when something bad happens in your career, then get back up and say, Okay, well, what can I do now? What’s the next thing?”