UP! — BANK STREET BOOK STORE Bonanza!

Posted on March 17, 2015 by writersideup

For a children’s book lover like me, attending a big KidLit event is akin to a giddy movie fan attending an after party for the Academy Awards. Granted—it’s been a long time since I’ve cared to watch an award show, but that’s not the point. In my opinion this far exceeds any of that brouhaha, and I can tell you—I’ll eat my bookmark if I didn’t see a red carpet on the sidewalk in front of the Bank Street Book Store for its Grand Re-Opening celebration on March 7th!

Never mind that this was in Manhattan, much like the Bronx Bombers’ “Murderers’ Row,” the line up of 31 guest authors and illustrators was filled with KidLit “home run” hitters. We’re talkin’ Newbery and Caldecott, people! No, I kid you not! Continue reading →

UP!: Q&A with “Neighbor Girl” Felicia Maziarz

Posted on March 3, 2015 by writersideup

A “Lighter Side Up” Q & A:

Getting to Know

Felicia Maziarz

When I first became more active on social media by getting more involved on Twitter and following Kidlit-related blogs, an unknown and somewhat unexpected world opened up for me. What I totally did NOT expect was to find accomplished “kid” authors! Not only was I more than impressed, but witnessing this kind of creativity, passion and drive for something so worthwhile—which also takes perseverance to complete—filled me with a sense of hope.

For such a young author, Felicia Maziarz has a very distinct writing voice, and a sturdy grasp on her clearly fleshed-out characters. Writing “funny” is not an easy thing to accomplish, but Continue reading →

UP!–John Newbery: The Man Behind the Medal

Posted on December 11, 2014 by writersideup

Portrait by Stephen Marchesi

Born in England on July 9, 1713, at the age of 16, John Newbery left his home town and parents’ farm to work for a printer. So was his first step into the world of publishing. In 1737 he became co-owner of a publishing company. At that time, the books typically given to children were tedious and lesson-filled, or handed-down folktales written for adults. These were considered “tall” tales, so thought of more for children. Books such as Gulliver’s Travels and Robinson Crusoe were among them, though young children weren’t capable of reading at that level. Newbery eventually came up with the groundbreaking idea to publish books designed specifically for children by making the books fun to read. It was risky and he could’ve ultimately lost his business if the idea failed, but he was confident children would like them. He was right. Continue reading →

UP!–Celebrating the Format of PRINT PICTURE BOOKS!

Posted on November 2, 2014 by writersideup

In case you weren’t aware—IT’S PICTURE BOOK MONTH! I’ve been heavily involved in the Kidlit World of Picture Books for decades now, but hadn’t known of this more-than-worthwhile celebration ’til last year when I got more immersed in Twitter and social media. And OH, what a celebration it is! Continue reading →

UP!–Young Author’s “Stanley & Katrina Book Blasty Tour”!

Posted on October 8, 2014 by writersideup

Stanley

Katrina’s

Book Blasty Tour 2014!

As we all know, there are times we simply cannot resist doing something, right? This is one of those times.*** When I see young people doing constructive, valuable, worthwhile things, it elates me—my heart overflows with joy 🙂 Since becoming active on Twitter and following Kidlit-related blogs, happily I discovered “kid” authors! I was immediately smitten—totally hooked! Felicia Maziarz is one such young author and it just so happens she recently released her SECOND book in a series! Pretty impressive, don’t you think? I can tell you I’m VERY impressed (in fact, here’s my review), but I’m certainly not the only one who recognizes the quality of these books.

Continue reading →