September Reads~Happy Fall!

It is now officially fall here in Central New York! The beautiful weather and leaves beginning to change colors inspired me to create a blog post about a few of my favorite autumn-themed children's books I'm reading this month. There's nothing better than sitting down with a good book in the fall with a cold glass of apple cider or iced pumpkin coffee!

Here are my top 4 fall reads this month:

1) A Fall Ball for All, by Jamie A. Swenson

This is a beautiful and whimsical story with illustrations to match. Children will love looking at the bright and detailed illustrations, and have fun following along the forest animals' journey to get ready for the annual "Windfall Ball." They come together to celebrate the autumn festivities and prepare a harvest by gathering food to last them through the long winter in hibernation. It's wonderful for children to learn nature terminology as the story unfolds, and the author explains more about fall harvesting at the end of the book. This story has the perfect blend of elements to satisfy young readers exploring the magic of fall.

2) Winnie-the-Pooh and the Blustery Day

This treasured children's book classic will always be one of my favorite books to read during the fall. The story is about Winnie-the-Pooh and his friend's "Windsday" adventure in the forest. They make it through all of the comical obstacles the windy and rainy day brings about (such as houses flooding and Piglet being blown away!) by helping each other out and being brave, which is what a true hero is. A perfect read for a rainy day in September!

3) In the Middle of Fall, by Kevin Henkes

The illustrations in this story are absolutely beautiful and have so much expression that it practically tells the story itself. This is perfect for very young readers. Follow along with the characters as they watch and experience the quickly changing season. This simple but profound story illustrates how it is important to enjoy each wonderful season while it lasts by taking advantage of the outdoor activities. With a strong gust of wind, the autumn leaves can blow away in an instant! But don't be sad, because the next season will be just as beautiful.

4) Runaway Pumpkins, by Teresa Bateman

This is a very cute and exciting story for children with great illustrations. Follow along the student's field trip to the pumpkin farm as they have fun picking out their own special pumpkins to take home with them. But when disaster strikes on the ride back (bye-bye, pumpkins!...), the students learn to make the best out of the situation and come up with a plan. It's wonderful how both the students and their neighbors come together to help and show kindness to each other. There's a big pumpkin surprise at the end! The author also shows different treats you can make from pumpkins, along with a delicious dessert recipe at the end. If you love the fall and all things pumpkins, you'll love reading this book!

There's nothing like the autumn season (especially up here in Central New York!) to get both kids and adults excited to plan activities and go out and enjoy nature. How much more colorful can you get when you look out at the vivid red, orange, and golden leaves blowing against the bright blue sky (and even on rainy days)? Talk about the perfect inspiration to write a children's book! 😉

What are your favorite autumn-themed children's books, and what is your favorite season? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Fall! 🍁🍂🎃🍎

The Power of Libraries

 

             The Power of Libraries

Libraries have always been (and always will be) one of my favorite places to go to. You can't beat free items (and today there are so many more items in addition to books you can borrow)! But it isn't just what you can do at the library. The atmosphere itself is so peaceful, quiet, and friendly. You can sit anywhere you'd like, and browse for as long as you'd like. You can educate both yourself and other people.

There are some people who are surprised that libraries today are just as popular as they've ever been. Many have thought that the digital world (like streaming) would eventually replace the need to go there. Not so!

For one matter, I think that there will always be people who prefer hardcopy books, movies, magazines, and newspapers to read. In addition to this, there is so much more you can do today at the library: there are special events and classes offered (many are free) for people of all ages to join. There are regular storytimes offered for young children to attend with their families. There are book clubs, movie nights, and festivals. One thing I especially like are the book sales my local libraries offer. You can't beat purchasing a new hardcover book or DVD for only a couple of dollars!

I think that sometimes people take the library for granted. I first noticed this during the pandemic, when they shut down temporarily for the public to go inside and use. We need to be more grateful and show our appreciation to those who work there. Make a donation, attend an event, or simply say hello to the staff or like/share their posts on social media.

I especially appreciate all of the libraries that have supported my children's books (such as adding them to their collection or creating free or inexpensive author events to promote and sell my work). I hope that more and more of them do this; it means everything to us authors!

To sum it up...libraries are a great place to educate yourself, teach others, meet new people, get active, and make a positive difference in so many ways. They are also here for us to simply enjoy and appreciate...and look how powerful (and priceless) that is. 

What Books Have Done for Me ♡

As a children's book author, it comes as no surprise that I have always loved to read. It isn't just a hobby for me; it's always been a comforting and therapeutic escape (especially when life gets chaotic; anyone here relate?) into a different world. 

I have learned so much from books growing up; it's taught me important life lessons and the various ways people think and interact with the world. I've learned about history, about health, and about becoming a writer and an artist. There's no limit to what you can learn, and you can do it all for free at the library. It's priceless!

Books have also been a constant and reliable companion for me (especially during my teenage years when I struggled with mental health issues and loneliness. They basically saved my life!). I've learned social skills and about basic interactions with other people that I wouldn't have learned otherwise at the time.

I think that it's so important to start teaching children how to read at an early age. They learn important life lessons in a way that they can understand and relate to. It gives them opportunities to discuss important topics and feelings, and teaches them how to use their imagination. Books also give children the opportunity to bond with their family when read to in a nurturing environment. 

Like author Stephen King stated: “Books are a uniquely portable magic.”

What have books done for you? 🌠🌟📚

Author Events as an Introvert

Twenty + years ago, if someone had told me that one day I would be an author participating regularly in book signings and craft shows, I probably wouldn't believe them. Writing a book was a distant dream of mine, and I didn't realize how much of it is promoting your work, having your own table at author events, and interacting with other authors and readers. So I guess it's safe to say that I've made a lot of progress over the years with social anxiety. (Not that I don't still struggle sometimes. It's been a long journey!)

You know what the best part is about participating in book signings (and being an author in general)? It has helped me so much with social anxiety and getting myself out more. It gives me something to talk about, and there is endless information to learn along the way. There's no limit to creativity and knowledge! Who would have thought that I'd be giving other authors advice on marketing and self-publishing? 

Being an author, writer, and artist has given me the gift of both expressing myself creatively, making new friends and meeting new people, and-most importantly-giving me a voice.

Anyone else here relate?

Enjoy the rest of your week, and happy fall! 🍂🍁