Writers and Illustrators on Tour

I don't do a lot of school visits, not because I don't want to, but primarily because I'm so busy and because of the logistics of being a writer based in Tough City. I have to add two days of travel to just about any trip I do. But . . . my children are now older and easier to leave for a bit (not that they're alone; FH is always around for them) so things just might change in that regard. I do love visiting the children I write for. They are usually so keen to meet you and you definitely get feedback on your books (whether you want it or not!). We benefit, but of course the children do too. Meeting a "real life writer" who is just as "normal" as their own mom or dad can be a revelation. And they can see how all of the slogging they are doing at the moment, learning to spell, read, punctuate, etc. all has a purpose in life. On my visits I always try to relate how the skills children are learning in school translate to my everyday reality!

If you are a teacher, librarian or parent looking to invite an author to a local school or library, you can start with a look here, for the Canadian writers and illustrators willing to visit your community. If you are in British Columbia, you can begin here.

For Aspiring Illustrators (and those who love picture books)

... the web site and blog of Kirsti Anne Wakelin are certainly worth spending some time on. Gorgeous work.

Marketing 101

Would it be too wrong to steal this idea? (I guess I should actually finish the book first...).

Canadian Children's Book Centre - Shortlists

Congratulations to those on the short lists of the Canadian Children's Book Centre awards: The TC Canadian Children's Literature Award, the Prix TD de litterature canadienne pour l'enfance et la jeunesse, the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award, the Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children's Non-Fiction, and the Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People.

Here are the lists.

A little bit of blogger help?

Okay, generally I am digging this new layout (not sure about the colours yet), but does anyone out there know what to do about the video links stretching out over the right sidebar?

Love Those Librarians

I have been quiet for far too long. Will try to rectify that! For now, enjoy this hilarious video: