With two picture books and a chapter book series in the works, I’ve had an extremely busy workload. But I’m not complaining. In this scary economy, having any work at all is a good thing. It does make me sad, however, that I haven’t been able to dedicate much time here at the Brown Bookshelf. [ Read the full article… ]

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WALKING HOME TO ROSIE LEE written by A. LaFaye illustrated by Keith D. Shepherd published by Cinco Puntos Press    The Civil War was fought and slaves were free. And now young Gabe wants to find his mother, Rosie Lee, sold away long ago. But finding her won’t be easy. On the road, Gabe meets [ Read the full article… ]

Chronicle Books children’s fall/winter 2011 catalog features wonderful artwork by Vanessa Brantley Newton. The artwork is for the upcoming picture book adapted by Cedella Marley, One Love. It is based on the Bob Marley song. Don’t ‘cha love this cover, too?

As summer nears, so does vacation season. That may mean trips to the beach or amusement parks or time visiting out-of-state family and friends. I gained new appreciation for that freedom to travel and find places to stop, eat and sleep when I read Ruth & the Green Book, a poignant picture book written by playwright and debut children’s book author [ Read the full article… ]

OK, this is an oldie, but a goodie. In Praise of Our Fathers and Mothers: A Black Family Treasury by Outstanding Authors and Artists, is a lovely collection of stories, written and illustrated by some of the best-known authors and illustrators of our time. The stories are complied by Wade Hudson and Cheryl Willis Hudson, [ Read the full article… ]

Several years ago, my oldest daughter surprised me with an illustrated book she created. Carefully stapled together she put into words and graphics her answer to one of life’s greatest mysteries. Later that school year she was given an award by her teacher in recognition for her creativity. She had become an author/illustrator. I was [ Read the full article… ]