Seeing stars in kidlit announcements is one more thing that was never explained to me. Stars are awarded by the major trade reviewers: Kirkus, School Library Journal, PublishersWeekly, The Horn Book. This is an evolving list. I’m still learning.
Now that [Read More]
Historical fiction was the genre that made me fall in love with reading as a child. It’s still one of my absolute favorites today so it shouldn’t be surprising that I love writing it too. There doesn’t seem to be [Read More]
I’ve been thinking about all of the things that I have learned since signing my first picture book contract in 2021 for Alone Together on Dan Street (published in 2022 by Apples & Honey Press). I’m still learning.
Maybe its [Read More]
Every writer has a favorite (and least favorite) step in the process of creating a manuscript. For me, research is my clear favorite. Research starts the second after I have that ‘lightbulb’ moment. I love the old Looney Tunes scenes [Read More]
Saliman and the Memory Stone is perfectly complimented by a memory stone project. For older students/ children my questions for readers (and listeners) can help guide a discussion about the themes this craft explores. As with all of my [Read More]
I’ve been having lots of fun creating FREE downloadable worksheets for my books thanks to Canva! I’m happy to develop additional worksheets so if you (educators and parents) have ideas, please let me know. For school visits, in addition to [Read More]
The last six months have been tough, but I’m beginning to find my way, the artist’s way.
I’ve always had a million excuses not to write, but I now at least have a couple of valid ones. This war has made [Read More]
I’m booked for the Hong Kong International Literary Festival 2024!
I’ll be speaking about Zhen Yu and the Snake and Counting on Naamah throughout the week at various international schools.
As in past years, I’m also meeting adult readers too! This year [Read More]
Crafting with Zhen Yu is a ZHEN YU AND THE SNAKE inspired craft that can be easily replicated at home or in classrooms. Educators, please ask me how I can bring this to your school, community center, or synagogue. [Read More]
Zhen Yu and the Snake is a Sydney Taylor Notable! I am thrilled. There were so many great books out these this year. Also, there were 2 books honored this year that celebrated the Chinese Jewish experience. Two New [Read More]
