Recently, an author-illustrator shared her poetic tribute to a children’s book icon, a creator donned a costume for her event, an author headed out on a book tour, and an author made her middle grade debut.
In Blume
On February 17, Selina Alko (l.) celebrated the launch of her new picture book, Otherwise Known as Judy the Great: A Poetic Ode to Judy Blume (Little, Brown/Ottaviano), at Lofty Pigeon Books in Brooklyn, N.Y. She was joined by Rachelle Bergstein (r.), author of the adult biography The Genius of Judy: How Judy Blume Rewrote Childhood for All of Us (One Signal), for a conversation about what Blume’s books meant to Alko as a young reader, Blume’s input on the picture book biography, and the joy that infused the project. “Doing this book, I feel like I’ve become an adolescent again,” she said. The event included a signing and homemade heart-shaped cookies in Blume's honor.
Keeping Friendship Alive
On February 10, author-illustrator Kaz Windness made an appearance at Westminster, Colo.’s Butterfly Pavilion in honor of Worm and Butterfly Are Friends Always (Simon Spotlight). In the sequel to Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends, the titular animal besties navigate changes in their friendship when Butterfly must leave for the winter. Following a storytime, Windness led guests in a drawing demonstration and held a signing. Here, Windness is dressed aptly for the event.
Let It Snow
On February 4, author Morr Meroz stopped at the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore as part of his tour for Snowlands (Graphix), illustrated by Collin Fogel. The graphic novel series starter follows orphaned wolf cub Feba, who wanders about the dangerous Snowlands while making new friends. During the visit, Morr led an animal guessing game, spoke about storytelling, and showcased the book trailer. Here, he gives a presentation to students.
Magic Myths
Barnes & Noble in Colorado Springs, Colo., welcomed Tracy Wolff on February 7 for a sold-out event to celebrate the release of her middle grade debut, The Aftermyth (Aladdin). The story follows tween Penelope, who enters an academy where students bring the tales of Greek gods to life. Wolff (r.) was joined by Rebecca Yarros for a discussion about Greek mythology and Wolff’s pivot to middle grade.
