Fall Book Adventures: US and Abroad!

November 4, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

This fall has been a flurry of book fun! Some happenings have been close to home, while others have been many miles (in some cases, oceans!) away. Here is a recap of fall book adventures, both domestic and international:

Happy Book Birthday, International Editions!

In October, the three editions of WILLOW AND BUNNY (illustrations by Christopher Denise, words by me) each celebrated a book birthday! Here’s a little video I posted to Instagram, to celebrate, if you’d like to check it out! Join me in officially wishing a…

Happy 2nd birthday to the US edition!
Happy 1st birthday to the French edition!
Happy book birthday to the German edition!

It’s wild and wonderful, watching Willow and Bunny travel the world. A copy of the French edition recently went on a solo journey, in fact, and decided to stay!

Willow et Bunny is now a part of the children’s book collection at the bibloteque in Croissy, France! Croissy-sur-Seine is a sister city of my town, Geneva, IL, and my lovely friend Chaz Baechler delivered it personally in her recent travels.

Here’s a photo of Jony Garner of Croissy Sans Frontières presenting Willow et Bunny to Mme Le Goff at the Bibliothèque de Croissy, and a pic of the endpapers of the book, signed with a special note from a Geneva International Exchange Committee representative, along with a Geneva bookmark. (Thank you, Chaz!)

AISLE in Champaign, IL

In October, I participated in the Author Showcase at the 2025 AISLE Conference. It was a lovely morning in Champaign, Illinois, connecting with school librarians and educators. Thank you so much, AISLE, for hosting the author breakfast and showcase! The event included moving remarks by Cozbi A. Cabrera, and it was wonderful catching up with so many writing friends, and meeting new ones!

Book magic in New York, NY

A recent trip to NYC included a few planned events and also a surprise chance meeting! While in the neighborhood of the celebrated bookstore Books of Wonder, my friends and I wandered in.

Who should happen to be signing books at that very time but the incomparable Peter H. Reynolds! Reynolds is the author and illustrator of many incredible books for kids, including one of my all-time favorites, Plant a Kiss, words by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrations by Reynolds.

(It was such a treat to meet you, Peter! Your stories have made an indelible mark on my heart!)

Books of Wonder has a remarkable collection of new books, as well as vintage books, prints, and sketches. I couldn’t more highly recommend a visit to this magical bookshop!

While in NYC, I had a chance to grab lunch with one of my all-time favorites, the editor of DANCING WITH DADDY and WILLOW AND BUNNY, published by Two Lions. Then I visited the lions themselves, which stand guard out front of The New York Public Library.

During the trip, my creative bucket was just absolutely overflowing, taking in stunning collections at MOMA, neighborhood walks, a dance class observation at Steps on Broadway, Jonathan Groff in Just in Time, and a phenomenal cast of Little Shop of Horrors.

My final stop… a school in Battery Park! I shared WILLOW AND BUNNY with second-grade students, and we chatted about friendship and personification. We also talked about our favorite activities. I asked students, “What is the thing that you love doing most? The thing that - when you’re in the midst of it - makes three hours feel like three minutes?”

The students at the school, a stone’s throw from the Statue of Liberty, knew that they were readers and writers. We are forever connected in that shared love!

Author Fest in Geneva, IL

The top of this month brought Children’s Book Author Fest at the Geneva Public Library, my home library! Just check out the line up of authors and illustrators featured (below) - so much talent in Chicagoland! Geneva’s library team does a brilliant job creating quality experiences for its patrons, and fostering community among children’s book creators, as well. We appreciate you, GPLD! (I’ll add more photos, as they become available!)

(Thanks for visiting, Hillman crew!)

Holiday Book Drive Chi, Chicago, IL

And one last item to add - which certainly is not least! Quite the opposite, in fact! Pastor Michael Neal and I have kicked off Holiday Book Drive Chi… year 9! Books are starting to arrive for young scholars served by Leading with Literacy, based in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood.

Pastor Neal and I recently met up to map out this year’s drive. Our goal? To collect and distribute 1,000 new books for young readers.

Want to join the book joy? We would deeply appreciate your help! To make a financial gift, or share new books, you can email me through my Contact form - we’d be so very grateful!

Here’s a blog post, which includes all of the books that have been donation so far for 2025, plus everything you need to know about the drive. For the very, very latest on Holiday Book Drive Chi, visit my Instagram at @anitraroweschulte. Happy holidays ahead!

Behind the Book with Jenna Elyse Johnson

October 29, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

When my three daughters were very small, we visited the library constantly. In every trip, we found loads of amazing picture books. But never did we ever find beautiful stories that celebrated disability, or the diversity within disability. Fast forward ten years… and the book of our dreams, by debut children’s book author Jenna Elyse Johnson, has arrived!

Meet EVERY BODY MOVE! by Johnson, illustrated by Ananya Rao-Middleton (Barefoot Books) — a joyful celebration of mobility aids. Lucky me, I first read this book as a manuscript, as Jenna’s PB Chat mentor. When we first started working together, Jenna shared many promising manuscripts, this story among them. It’s fun, triumphant tone caught my attention right away.

Here’s a summary of the story:

An original singalong celebrating kids with disabilities and the tools that help them access our world!

What helps your mobility? How do you groove?
Full of possibility! Every body move!

From flittin’, flyin’, flowin’ walkers to dartin’, jumpin’, dazzlin’ braces, there are so many cool inventions that help people move! Every Body Move! is an energetic affirmation for children who use mobility tools and a joyful celebration of an accessible world– set to an original groovy tune!

EVERY BODY MOVE! is a technicolor party that welcomes and invites readers to champion themselves and their friends. The catchy prose is punctuated with touches of rhyme, repetition and alliteration, creating a bouncy, musical, energetic read aloud that’s great for story time… and any time.

So, how did the book come to be? Jenna Elyse Johnson is here to tell us more. Come along as we go… Behind the Book!

How did this story come to you?

EVERY BODY MOVE! first came to me as a phrase. “Babe with a mobility aid.” I believe that was actually the original title for the story. Well, for the original version of the story that inspired the final version that is now published.

It’s a phrase that is used quite often within the disability community. It’s meant to highlight the fact that you can be fashionable with a mobility aid. You can be cute! You can be fun! Mobility aids don’t take anything away from you. They add freedom! That was the idea I was running with.

I grew up using a variety of mobility aids, though I didn’t feel a sense of joy from them. I, quite frankly, felt the opposite. Shame. Embarrassment. Different. I wanted to hide my mobility aids, and really my disability, from the world. But now, as an adult who has embraced the disability community, and who has been embraced BY the disability community, I want to reframe my thinking. So that’s when the idea for this story sparked.

Plus, kids today can have all sorts of fun, bold designs on their assistive tools. They can really show off their personalities! When I was little, my AFOs were white plastic. That was it. In high school, I got an arm brace that had kittens chasing yarn. I thought that was really cute. But I only wore that at night.

As for the actual phrase “babe with a mobility aid,” editors did NOT like it. I got many rejections early on, just from the title alone. They felt it didn’t sit well in the picture book space. And they are probably right. The word “babe” is tricky. Is it a baby? Or a teenager? Either way, not a picture book aged child. But I did keep the phrase in my dedication. :)

How did it evolve, as it came fully into being?

This story evolved in so many ways, as it came into being. You were a big part of that process, as my PBChat mentor, so THANK YOU!

First, the PBChat Mentorship in 2022. You helped me get the story into, well, a story! That version had many elements of the published version. And you helped me write a strong pitch and query letter, something that I think helped sell this book, in the end.

Then, in late summer of 2022, after sending it out to an agent, I got feedback that the story was really two stories in one. One more narrative story about a girl receiving her first mobility aid and one more concept story about bodies/mobility aids/movement. So I revised (again with your help!) and focused on the concept story. I renamed it to EVERY BODY MOVE! Then, DVPit rolled around and I submitted a pitch on Twitter. (Ah the good ole days of Twitter pitch parties!) And Autumn Allen of Barefoot Books liked my pitch! I was floored! I messaged her and she sent me instructions on how to submit to her.

ONE YEAR LATER: Autumn emailed me and asked if the story was still available. It was! By then, I was agented and looped the fantastic Christie Megill in to negotiate everything for me.

Before we signed the contract, Autumn asked if I was interested in the book becoming a sing-along? UM, YES! Who would say no to that?! Plus, I had seen Barefoot’s sing-along line and was honored that they wanted my little story to be among them.

As we came into the first round of edits, there wasn’t a lot for me to do. There were only three lines of text that changed from the original manuscript that I sent to Autumn.

But then, as we developed the song, things got interesting! Because the book is also a song, the story needed a chorus, or a repeating refrain. That was NOT in the original text I submitted. I worked really closely with Michael Flannery, the musician who wrote the music for the song, to make sure the lyrics fit well, musically. We ended up changing a few words throughout the text, to make sure that the song flowed well. I am SO happy that Barefoot brought Michael on, because I don’t really know anything about songwriting or music.

Barefoot also hired two sensitivity readers, to make sure that we were being as inclusive as possible. I am disabled and my main passion is to highlight disability joy through my writing, but I cannot speak for the entire disability community. I am grateful that Barefoot brought on more disabled creators to give feedback.

What is your biggest hope for this story?

My biggest hope for this story is that it helps ALL kids feel seen. Truly seen. And heard. And felt. And appreciated. And included. Especially disabled kids.

I hope more people get comfortable with the word “disabled.” It’s not a scary word. Or a bad word. Or a word we need to whisper. It’s way better than any euphemism like “differently abled” or “handi-capable.” That’s my opinion, anyway.

I hope that this book finds its way into both schools and homes. For both disabled and non-disabled readers. This book is for everyone! Music teachers can use this book to teach about music. You can download the score for free from my website or from Barefoot Books. Classroom teachers can use this book as an introduction to mobility tools and assistive devices. There is backmatter that explains more about each tool that is used in the book. Or this can just be a fun read aloud or movement break. The video animation and song is SO fun! Parents can read this book or play the song as often as they like with their children. And have whatever conversations they need to have.

This is the book I wish I had when I was little. So I guess my biggest hope is that a kid like me, a little Jenna, will read this book, and say, “Hey, that’s me!” And will finish this book with a smile on their face. I’m not sure you can ask for more than that.

Thank you for visiting Behind the Book, Jenna! So many readers will find themselves in this book, and the MANY books you have on the way. I’m so deeply honored to know you, as your early mentor, current critique partner, and forever friend! Here’s how to enter to win your copy of Jenna’s debut book:

Win a copy of EVERY BODY MOVE!

Visit @anitraroweschulte on Instagram
Like and tag a friend on the EVERY BODY MOVE! post by EOD Sunday, Nov. 2.
US entries only

The winner will be announced on Monday, Nov. 3. Wishing you the best of luck!

Behind the Book with Jess Hannigan

October 6, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

If you’re looking for a picture book that’s just a teensy bit spooky, laugh-out-loud funny, and jaw-droppingly adorable, you’ll get all that and a whole lot more in this unforgettable and uber-charming new release from Jess Hannigan.

THE BEAR OUT THERE (Quill Tree Books) is a just-perfect-for-Halloween title that delivers suspense and snickers, all the way through — and may also introduce you to your new favorite protagonist! Here’s a summary of the story:

DON’T SCREAM! There’s something scary out in the forest, but you’re in good hands in this story by Jess Hannigan, author of the wryly silly Spider in the Well. Just make sure you keep a cool head, and watch out for any intruders… The signs are clear—there’s a BEAR OUT THERE! You’re lucky to be safe in this cabin in the woods, with a host who is levelheaded, trustworthy, and smart about bear safety. There’s certainly no need to worry about any dark shadows or sneaky schemes in this book…RIGHT? Jess Hannigan is back with another bold and brazen tale that’s not too silly, not too scary, but just right.

Oh, the over-reacting! You’ll love reading (and reading aloud) everything that the main character of THE BEAR OUT THERE has to share, oscillating between super freaked out and cool as a cucumber. Where does the story come from? And how did Jess arrive at its fun style? Come along we go… Behind the Book!

How did this story come to you?

The story is directly taken from an animation project I did in art school, where a girl is seemingly minding her business in a cabin, worrying about something watching her from outside. Then we see outside, and a bear is holding a sign that reads “this is literally MY house”, the girl gasps, and it ends. I think that idea just came from the rhyme of Bearwith There, and wasn’t even supposed to be a goldilocks thing (which is very silly).

What influenced and inspired you, as you created this book?

The biggest influence for this one was The Monster at the End of this Book, the Sesame Street book by Jon Stone and Michael Smollin. The way Grover talks right to you, and is so scared, begging you not to keep reading the book is a masterpiece, for real. I thought, “if I can get anywhere near how good that book is with this, I’ll have peaked”.

How did it evolve, as it came fully into being?

From that original idea, my editor and I (and the many other writers I sent it to for advice) tried to play up the anticipation leading up to the reveal that it was the bear’s house all along. It originally had fewer jokes, and was also less scary. Playing up the first sight of the bear, and then slow creeping up to the door really helped curate that tension that I think is so fun.

What is your biggest hope for this story?

I want this to be one that grown-ups can really nail their storytelling skills with! I want everybody to get in really close, hold their breaths, laugh, and yell. And then do it again. My mom was really talented at scaring us with books, in the best, giggly way.

How might an educator bring your story into classroom activities or learning?

Good question! It wonder if this book could be a class’s first intro to suspense, or unreliable narrators. Both feature heavily here, and are sometimes rare in picture books. That would be really fun.

What sustains and nourishes you, as you travel this picture book journey?

Wow! Maybe devouring as many beautiful, smart books as I can get my hands on. It makes me hungry to try new ways of making pictures and setting type and everything. To be anywhere near the same sphere of existence as the picture book legends I love is really cool as is, I’m lucky to be here at all!

Thank you for visiting Behind the Book, Jess! The Monster at the End of This Book was my childhood favorite, and I loved learning how it influenced your story! Would you like a copy of THE BEAR OUT THERE? Of course you would! Here’s how to enter to win:

Win a copy of THE BEAR OUT THERE:

Visit @anitraroweschulte on Instagram
Like THE BEAR OUT THERE post by EOD Saturday, Oct. 11
US entries only

The winner will be announced on Sunday, Oct. 12. Wishing you the best of luck!

Holiday Book Drive - Year Nine!

October 1, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

We’re thrilled to announce we are kicking off Holiday Book Drive Chi year … NINE!

Last year, we reached our goal of collecting 1,000 books during the course of the drive for students served by Chicago’s Leading with Literacy nonprofit, led by Pastor Michael Neal. (Well, we collected 973 books, to be exact, but we were so close that we rounded up!)

It’s our greatest prayer that we can do it again! This year, our goal is to bring the total number of books collected since the start of the drive to 7,000. To reach the total, we’ll have to surpass the number we reached last year, and collect 1,014 books.

We can do it!

Your gifts make an enormous impact. Pastor Neal delivered books on multiple days last year, due to the tremendous number of donations, spreading the love of reading throughout the holiday season and into the new year, too!

Working with Pastor Neal on Holiday Book Drive Chi is one of my favorite things in the whole world. It’s beautiful, mysterious and overwhelming, as book blessings begin arriving from across the country.

We don’t know what special moments are in store for this year’s drive. But we cannot wait to find out! Above all, we are so very grateful for your action and investment and care. YOUR help is what makes it all possible!

Without you, there is no delivery day!

Thank you so much for supporting the book drive effort - year after year. Every single book and dollar shared helped us reach our goal of connecting as many Chicago students as possible with new stories! We’d be so honored if you’d be a part of Holiday Book Drive Chi year NINE, by donating books or financial gifts toward the purchase of books!

Want to join the book joy in year nine? Below, you’ll find details about how Holiday Book Drive Chi works, and how you can help. Thank you for your friendship! And your partnership in literacy!

How to Give

To make a donation of books or a financial gift, please EMAIL ME via my website Contact page or MESSAGE ME on Instagram and let me know what you plan to send. The info goes into a spreadsheet that keeps donations organized.

(I apologize that I cannot share my personal address publicly.)

Books and financial gifts are accepted from October 1 through early December. As books are donated, I’ll share them below, so you can check out what Chicago readers will be reading, and perhaps get some ideas for your home library, too!

More Book Drive Details!

We Love Books! We are excited to receive any book written for children. We do ask that the books are new and not used. Picture books, early readers, chapter books, middle grade and young adult titles are all welcome, and very appreciated!
The Magic Number = 30: Any single book donation is celebrated. But if you have the ability to join forces with a friend (or friends) and donate 30 copies of the same book, you’ll be able to provide an entire classroom that very book - so all students can share in the same reading experience, which is the ultimate wish of our partner teachers and schools.
Publisher Partners: Authors, if you think your publisher might be interested in (and able to!) provide a complete classroom donation of 30 books, please let me know! We can provide a letter from Leading with Literacy for tax purposes.
Set Up a Team Donation: If you’d like to collect books or funds for our drive through a local club or organization - such as a troop, dance studio, basketball team, chess club, etc. - that would be amazing! Let me know, and we can chat logistics.
Title Ideas: I’m happy to share book recommendations at any time, if you’re not sure which book or books to give.
Financial Gifts: Financial donations are most welcome, too! I combine financial gifts and place orders for full-class donations through Scholastic. Great deals to be had there!
Shouting It Out: I celebrate all book donations as I receive them, on social media and on my website, too. Sharing these special deliveries is one of my favorite things to do!
Follow Along: Want to know what’s going on with the drive? Visit this post often, as well as Instagram. Search the hashtag #HolidayBookDriveChi for the latest donations.

Now, wiithout further ado, this year’s books!

Thank you faithful supporter Pat Zietlow Miller for kicking off the drive with your new book …

ONE CAN BE

(By Pat Zietlow Miller, Illustrated by Annie Cron, Beaming Books)

Thank you Lenert Family for sharing an entire classroom donation of…

LAYLA AND THE BOTS: BUILT FOR SPEED

(By Vicky Fang, Illustrated by Christine Nishiyama, Scholastic)

Thank you Lenert, Rowe and Schaper families for sharing an entire classroom donation of…

FUTURE HERO: BATTLE FOR SKY KINGDOM

(By Remi Blackwood, Scholastic)

Thank you for this anonymous donation of an entire classroom donation of…

THE VANDERBEEKERS OF 141st STREET (By Karina Yan Glaser, Clarion Books)

Thank you Bradley family for sharing an entire classroom donation of…

FERRIS (By Kate DiCamillo, Candlewick)

Thank you Richard Ho and Roaring Brook Press for sharing

an entire classroom donation of your book…

A ROCK IS BORN

(By Richard Ho, Illustrated by Lily Williams, Roaring Brook Press)

Thank you Dinslage and Campbell families for sharing an entire classroom donation of…

LINK + HUD: HEROES BY A HAIR

(By Jarrett Pumphrey and Jerome Pumphrey, Norton Young Readers)

Thank you Mia Wenjen and Eifrig Publishing for sharing

four entire classroom donations of your book…

BOXER BABY BATTLES BEDTIME!

(By Mia Wenjen, Illustrated by Kai Gietzen, Eifrig Publishing)

Thank you Raven Howell for sharing 50 copies of your books, including…

GRANDMA YOGINI

(By Raven Howell, Illustrated by Alexander Santos, Nymeria Publishing)

THE CHARMS OF U.S. FARMS

(By Raven Howell, Illustrated by Ann Pilicer, Skippy Creek)

Thank you Becky Scharnhorst and Margaret K. McElderry Books for sharing

two entire classroom donations of your book…

BEST BUDS

(By Becky Scharnhorst, Illustrated by Jiarui Jiang, Publisher)

Thank you to the Walker Sands Book Club and Walker Sands for sharing

two entire classroom donations of the book…

I AM EVERY GOOD THING

(By Derrick Barnes, Illustrated by Gordon C. James, Nancy Paulsen Books)

Thank you Jan Milusich and Anne Schwartz Books for sharing

an entire classroom donation of your book…

I HEAR THE SNOW, I SMELL THE SEA

(By Janice Milusich, Illustrated by Chris Raschka, Anne Schwartz Books)

Thank you Lauren Kerstein and Two Lions and for sharing an entire classroom donation of your book…

ROSIE THE DRAGON AND CHARLIE SAY GOOD NIGHT

(By Lauren H. Kerstein, Illustrated by Nate Wragg, Two Lions)

Thank you Lauren Kerstein and Magination Press and for sharing an entire classroom donation of your book…

HOME FOR A WHILE

(By Lauren H. Kerstein, Illustrated by Natalia Moore, Magination Press)

Thank you Yarnell family for sharing an entire classroom donation of…

BUD, NOT BUDDY

(By Christopher Paul Curtis, Yearling)

Thank you Beth Anderson for sharing an entire classroom donation of your book…

“SMELLY” KELLY AND HIS SUPER SENSES

(By Beth Anderson, Illustrated by Jenn Harney, Calkins Creek)

Thank you Sarah Kurpiel for sharing 20 copies of your books, including…

A LITTLE LIKE MAGIC (Rocky Pond Books)

ELEPHANT’S BIG SOLO (Greenwillow Books)

SNAKE’S BIG MISTAKE (Greenwillow Books)

Thank you Alastair Heim for sharing 20 copies of your books, including…

BIG BUB, SMALL CAR

(By Alastair Heim, Illustrated by Aaron Blecha, Simon Spotlight)

SIGN SAYS STOP

(By Alastair Heim, Illustrated by Yavae Sanae, Simon Spotlight)

Thank you Laura Gehl for sharing 19 copies of your books, including…

ORSON AND THE WORLD’S LOUDEST LIBRARY

(By Laura Gehl, Illustrated by Stephanie Roth Sisson, Astra Young Readers)

DONUT ROSQUILLA

(By Laura Gehl, Illustrated by Andrea Zuill, Random House Studio)

THE ELEVATOR ON 74TH STREET

(By Laura Gehl, Illustrated by Yas Imamura, Beach Lane Books)

Thank you Robin Newman for sharing 10 copies of your book…

TRIAL AND ERROR

(By Robin Newman, Illustrated by Deborah Zemke, Creston Books)

Thank you Ariel Bernstein for sharing 9 copies of your book…

MABEL WANTS A FRIEND

(By Ariel Bernstein, Illustrated by Marc Rosenthal, A Paula Wiseman Book)

We will continue sharing the donated books in this blog post. Can you help make the total grow?

OUR CURRENT TOTAL:

735 BOOKS

We can’t wait to see what this year’s drive brings!

Thank you for being part of delivering book joy this holiday season!

Behind the Book with Gloria Amescua

September 23, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

Picture books are often songs of the heart, and that’s absolutely felt when reading stories written by children’s book author Gloria Amescua. I was delighted to get to know Gloria as part of the picture book launch group PB Troupe 21, and was cheering wildly when her debut picture book, CHILD OF THE FLOWER-SONG PEOPLE (illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh), was celebrated as a recipient of a Pura Belpré Honor.

Gloria’s latest picture book, ABUELITA’S SONG (illustrated by Mariyah Rahman, Beach Lane Books), swirls and sways with music - through Gloria’s beautiful writing, Mariyah’s tender illustrations, and the lullaby that plays again-and-again in the pages of the narrative, begging to be sung by readers as they snuggle together. Here’s a summary of the story:

From Pura Belpré Honor author Gloria Amescua comes a sweet picture book integrating Spanish words and celebrating the family and music that connects us all.

Every night, when the sun says buenas noches, a mother sings a special lullaby to her baby boy: ¿Dónde está mi corazón? Aquí, aquí, aquí en mis brazos.

As he gets older, the boy asks for his song over and over until it’s forever in his heart. When the boy grows up and moves away, he teaches the song to his daughters. And now that Abuelita is coming for a visit, the girls plan a surprise for her: they are going to sing her song, “La canción del corazón.”

ABUELITA’S SONG is a sweet, gentle story of love, family, and tradition, which delivers quiet, calm reassurance to readers as they head off to sleep. Where did this story come from? And what is Gloria’s greatest hope for it, as it meets new readers? Come along we go… Behind the Book!

How did this story evolve, as it came fully into being?

I actually didn’t remember the beginning until I looked at my folder and found my first notes from the fall and winter of 2013. I used a narrative structure of cause and effect just to get ideas down. Then I wrote down the topic and the theme and actually wrote down the song for the first time since it was all just in my memory. Then I just wrote and focused more on the grown-up girl who didn’t speak Spanish as a little girl and why she wanted to sing a lullaby in Spanish to her son and how she became the grandmother or Abuelita. The ending had her realizing her son had sung the song she made up to her granddaughters. It was very much a prose narrative without any lyricism. I worked on the lyricism before and after I sent it to my agent, Taylor Martindale Kean, whom I’d signed with in 2018. Then we put Abuelita aside as I worked on Child of the Flower-song People, my debut nonfiction picture book.

As Abuelita’s Song (with a different title) finally made its rounds to editors, I had already focused on the Abuelita coming to visit and included my real granddaughters’ antics in postponing bedtime, which I loved, but as my editor pointed out, their funny antics took away from the tender emotional aspect. Then, a pass.

My next editor suggested I start with the mother singing to the baby boy. I loved that idea and went with it. Still, it didn’t go anywhere with that editor. It took over two years before my manuscript was sent out a third time in 2019. This time three editors were interested. One wanted me to cut out the part about the mother singing to the baby boy at the beginning, but I didn’t want to do that. The other two made their best offers, and I went with my editor Catherine Laudone at Paula Wasserman, Simon & Schuster. My editor asked for a few changes, including the title, and we were on our way with a fabulous illustrator, Mariyah Rahman, summer of 2023. It just took ten years, but it’s a book now and in the world!

How might an educator bring your story into classroom activities or learning?

Educators and parents can use this story to teach kids some Spanish words for some of the words that are translated in the book with matching or other activity. Have students create their own version by filling in the blanks of Where is ___? (They can fill in the blanks with words like "my joy" or “mi alegría” ;"my love" or "mi amor". They can learn other Spanish words that are related to the night sky or to family members, etc. Kids who are Spanish speakers can also be learning the English words.

Simon and Schuster has created activities that are available here. Of course, the lyrics can be used to model writing their own songs or poems.

Teachers and students can discuss differences in bedtime routines, study the differences in other lullabies, write stories or poems about being sleepy or not being able to go to sleep, about a special relationship with a grandparent or other family member. I recommend Tonnye Fletcher’s PB Jamz blog where she has developed many teacher activities for Abuelita’s Song for our interview. Links are here as well to hear the song sung by my granddaughters, to the music and my website where you can also find these links. Here’s the web link for our April 30th PB Jamz interview which gives insight into my inspiration, music, traditions, reading and much more.

What is your biggest hope for this story?

My biggest hope is that parents, teachers and kids feel the tenderness and love expressed through song and through treasuring traditions that connect generations. I also hope it encourages parents and relatives not only to pass down traditions (whether special dishes, songs, dances, or stories) but also create their own traditions, mementos, or experiences to pass down to children in their lives. I want this story to inspire kids to write their own songs or other creative projects that they can share.

Thank you for visiting Behind the Book, Gloria, and for sharing your story of persistence, treasured traditions, and creative inspiration! Would you like to win a copy of ABUELITA’S SONG? Here’s how to enter to win:

Win a copy of ABUELITA’S SONG:

Visit @anitraroweschulte on Instagram
Like the ABUELITA’S SONG post by EOD Sunday, Sept. 28
US entries only

The winner will be announced on Monday, Sept. 29. Good luck!

Kansas Adventures

September 21, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

When we pick up a book, we get to go somewhere else entirely - into new colors and scenes and feelings. It’s the greatest escape. This September, the books that made me an author took me to places that moved my heart and filled my bucket up all the way to the top.

The transportive tunnel was the long stretch of highway between Chicago’s western suburbs and Kansas delivering me to The Rabbit hOle museum in Kansas City. If you’ve glimpsed its immersive children’s book sets and scenes, then you know, it’s a magical world to behold. If you haven’t, and don’t mind a few spoilers (that hardly do it justice), when you descend into its depths …

… you can walk right into the kitchen of BLUEBERRIES FOR SAL by Robert McCloskey …

… and wade into the swamp with FROG AND TOAD by Arnold Lobel …

… and cozy up for a bowl full of mush in GOODNIGHT MOON by Margaret Wise Brown …

… and so much more. Approaching the doorstep of my very favorite children’s books was a bit like waiting in line for Santa. From far away, you can catch a bit of his beard and the edge of his suit, and you know you are about to have an encounter at the very center of your heart. It’s the kind of hesitancy and excitement that puts a lump in your throat and fills your stomach with fireflies.

Are you ready? This is it!

And then suddenly, you are there — in the courtyard of STREGA NONA by Tomie dePaola, sitting on the fountain’s edge, under the pretty pink terra cotta tiles. The scale of the exhibits and the perfection of the color palettes put you right in the middle of core memories. Thank you, Rabbit hOle KC, for creating pure magic in the heart of the Heartland.

The next stop was Emporia, Kansas, where the rabbit hole turned to a yellow brick road. When my daughters and I went shopping for an outfit for the trip, they told me the green dress was the one. I didn’t realize how very Oz it would be!

The day began with a visit to Walnut Elementary, where I shared DANCING WITH DADDY and WILLOW AND BUNNY and connected with grades K to 5. We did a bit of dancing, too, and talked about how we all are helpers in our families and communities. It’s become so important to me that each student knows exactly how needed they are in their home and school.

Then it was off to Middle Ground Books in downtown Emporia, a new bookstore that feels as if it’s been a haven for dreamers and thinkers for centuries. Owners Debra, Lance, and Megan have built an incredible heart for their community, and made me feel at home all afternoon. In a cozy story time, we read WILLOW AND BUNNY and chatted about the journey of stories with in-store guests and those watching via Facebook live.

I picked up some vintage books in their used books section upstairs. Such a novel idea, giving shoppers book credits, for the purchase of new books, when they contribute pre-owned titles to the used book stock. I left with my very own copy of KATY NO-POCKET by Emmy Payne, illustrated by H. A. Rey.

Topeka was next, for a celebration of literature at the 2025 Kansas Book Festival. In the early 2000s, I worked for The Kansas City Star newspaper, linking me forever to this lovely state and opening the door for return visits as an author with writing roots in Kansas.

I had a story time in the children’s tent, which was super special. So many little ones came up close with concern for Bunny, as the storm approached. Don’t we all want to make sure our friends, especially the very smallest and furriest, are safe?

I attended lots of incredible panels, including an interview with Bill Curtis, a Chicago broadcast legend who has deep ties in Topeka, and a conversation about disability visibility featuring authors Gretchen Schreiber (ELLIE HAYCOCK IS TOTALLY NORMAL) and Louise Krug (HOW TO EXPLAIN). Thank you for signing my book, Gretchen — it was wonderful meeting you!

The day wrapped up with my shared panel on grief in children’s books with author Scott Emmons and illustrator Stacey Lamb (HOPE AND THE WINDS OF GRIEF), moderated by the fabulous Anuja Madan, children’s literature professor at Kansas State University. It was lovely exploring the connective tissue of our stories — finding hope within and after unpredictable, uncontrollable forces of nature. It was an honor, Scott, Stacey, and Anuja!

Then I had the JOY of connecting with my agent, Stephanie Hansen, for dinner and write-life friends for coffee. Book talk is the best talk.

I’ve emerged from the rabbit hole, delightfully exhausted and refreshed, to wrap my arms ‘round the people who inspire every word I write, every world I build, and every beat of my heart. Pressing publish on this blog so I can revisit it anytime I want to reencounter the magic of these Kansas adventures.

Behind the Book with Antwan Eady

June 17, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

It’s been super exciting, following the author journey and stories of Antwan Eady. Antwan’s picture books are exactly the kind that pop off the shelf to me, and so many readers. They are intimate and cozy. They are revelatory and hopeful. So deeply, so powerfully, they bring to life meaningful moments and experiences. And, they are beautiful — in all the ways, from NIGEL AND THE MOON (illustrated by Gracey Zhang) and THE LAST STAND (illustrated by Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey) to Eady’s latest, THE GATHERING TABLE (illustrated by London Ladd, Knopf Books for Young Readers), which published May 6.

Here’s a summary of the story:

The author of Nigel and the Moon delivers a joyful picture book about how a Southern family gathers around a special table for year-round celebrations that highlight the importance of family, community, and coming together.

In my family,
there are traditions.
And my favorite—
happen around this table.

No matter the season, no matter the reason, the love that surrounds this boy’s family table is palpable and neverending. From a golden anniversary to Juneteenth, a special wedding to a new baby sister, here is a family that never forgets to come together and celebrate what it truly means to be there for each other.

Heartfelt illustrations complement the lyrical text in this poignant picture book that reveals how Gullah Geechee culture contributes to a family’s love, and reminds us the importance of building community one gathering at a time.

The intention and heart of this story speak to me in big ways, which is why I was so eager to go Behind the Book with Antwan to learn more! The dinner table is such a significant setting — in my family, and probably in yours! Despite life’s many uncertainties and twists and turns, as time marches on, it’s a place where we can reliably find one another and develop a firm sense of self, too. Antwan Eady now joins us to tell us more.

Come along we go… Behind the Book!

How did this story come to you?

The Gathering Table (illustrated by London Ladd) came to me after realizing how much I longed for the table in my life…from my childhood. There’s an author’s note in the back of the book that talks about this even more, but I wanted to share with readers my experience of gathering in South Carolina’s low country over the years. I wanted to invite readers to join this family under Spanish Moss and into a setting that’s unique and special. Where family and community come together to eat well, laugh full laughs and fellowship. It’s where customs and traditions are passed from one generation to the next.

What is your biggest hope for this story?

My biggest hope for The Gathering Table is that readers reflect on the tables in their lives, but I’d also like for them to give themselves permission to create their own tables. Often, when life events happen, our tables change. The people surrounding our tables may change, too. Over the years, I’ve given myself permission to create my own gathering table through meals, games, and so much more where family and friends gather. And for those without a table, I hope they feel welcomed here.

How might an educator bring your story into classroom activities or learning?

Great question! There’s a Classroom Activities for The Gathering Table guide. I’m excited to see how young dreamers identify with The Gathering Table. While touring, I’ve had the pleasure of learning about their favorite foods and swapping recipes. I’m currently reading letters from young dreamers where they’re sharing their family traditions, too. And this activity guide includes so much more!

Thank you for visiting Behind the Book, Antwan! I loved what you shared about the passing of customs and traditions, and how gathering tables change over time. That resonated really deeply, as did the empowering notion of creating our own places for gathering with those we love most. I’m so excited to see all the places this story takes you, and to hear about the gathering experiences that young readers share!

The Gathering Table is available everywhere now! Would you like to win a copy? Here’s how to enter!

Win a copy of THE GATHERING TABLE:

Visit @anitraroweschulte on Instagram
Add my post about THE GATHERING TABLE to your stories by EOD Sunday, June 22
Comment below, in this blog post, for an extra entry
US entries only

The winner will be announced on Monday, June 23. Wishing you the best of luck!

Behind the Book with Corinna Luyken

May 26, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

“Eagerly anticipated” doesn’t quite capture it! I’ve been restlessly awaiting the latest picture book by author and illustrator Corinna Luyken for so, so long, as have many of you, I’m certain. Luyken’s books captivate, surprise, and move you. Her marks and colors are so incredibly gorgeous and interesting, and her stories give us readers big things to contemplate.

THE ARGUERS (Rocky Pond Books), which publishes on May 27, delivers all of this and more, starting with its standout cover. I love the way an out-of-place rose elicits the upmost ire in the featured character. Have we not all observed and experienced that kind of trivial anger, in others and ourselves? Here’s a summary of the story:

A delightfully preposterous and original fairy tale about a community that forgets how to get along, by the celebrated creator of The Book of Mistakes

The first argument was over a brush and a comb, and which would be better for taking a tangle out of the king’s beard. Next came the argument over letters, and then over spoons . . . and soon they argued all the time, and no one could remember when the arguing had started or over what or by whom. They only knew that they had always argued, and that they did it well. Very, very well.

And so it was that the king and queen decided to hold a contest to choose the very best arguer in the land. But what will happen when everyone is so busy arguing that they can’t even hear the queen announce the start of the contest?

A fresh fairy tale with all that emotion and silliness? I could not wait to read THE ARGUERS and learn what Luyken had to say about arguing — a topic so relevant to us all. I’m beyond delighted that Corinna Luyken is visiting the blog to tell us more.

Come along we go… Behind the Book!

How did this story come to you?

This story began with a few words that came to me (“The first argument…”) When I went to write them down, a lot of the book flowed from there: from the original argument (brushes vs. combs), to the people arguing with stones and flowers, all the way to the contest announcement. I liked the world that was being created and so I made a few paintings—a lady arguing with stones, a lady arguing with flowers, and a king with an exceptionally long beard and a crew of irritated people de-tangling it. The drawings made me laugh. And when a drawing makes me laugh, I pay attention.

But that was ten years ago. The project sat on the back burner for a while, while I focused on other ideas. Then about three years ago I shared it with my editor, who loved the idea but felt the ending needed work. From there it was several more years of actively sorting out the ending before we arrived at that final sequence and that last page. So, this book has been in the pipeline for a long time!

What influenced and inspired you, as you created this book?

I am the mother of a daughter who for most of her younger years had very long hair that she liked to wear down. Hair that would get very tangled, daily. Hair that needed to be brushed, daily. This often led to a frustrating experience for both of us. We got very good at arguing over tangles. She’s 15 now and has been brushing her own hair for a long time… so I’ve had years to think about the cyclical nature of those arguments, how absurd and enduring they could be. There was this never-ending repetitive quality to some of those arguments that I used to wonder if we would ever be able to break.

And when it comes to the particular type of arguing that occurs during hair brushing, we have. But with time I’ve realized that those arguments haven’t really gone away, it’s more like they’ve shifted. Taken new form. Now we argue over laundry and screen time.

It also seems to me that inside a small or absurd argument, something deeper is often hiding. Beneath many of the disagreements in The Arguers there is a backdrop of excess. I didn’t start the story with that secondary layer in mind, it’s something that grew organically along with the pictures and story. But this sub-layer that lies beneath the original argument is something I’m very interested in.

Also, if you look at the title page at the end of Arguers, you’ll see the book is dedicated to George Saunders, Lane Smith, Molly Leach, and The Very Persistent Gappers of Frip. Gappers is a picture book they collaborated on, back in 2000. It is also the book that made me realize I wanted to make picture books. In many ways, Gappers has inspired all of my books, including The Arguers.

What is your biggest hope for this story?

In my studio, behind my drawing table, I have a cabinet covered in quotes from other bookmakers and artists. Most are about the joys, difficulties, and uncertainties of the creative process. Among them is one from Krista Tippett, interviewer and creator of the On Being podcast: “There is something redemptive and life giving about asking a better question,” she says. I think of this quote often. If anything, I hope this book might lead to some better questions.

And that those questions might lead to some interesting conversations—about what it means to get along, to disagree, to find common ground, and to move through life as a small part of a much larger community.

Working on this book has reminded me how integral disagreement is to life. It is essential to the hard and sometimes uncomfortable work of being human in this world. And that is a beautiful thing.

How might an educator bring your story into classroom activities or learning?

I’ve shared this story with a handful of classrooms already, and each time I’ve asked for a show of hands—how many people have ever been in an argument? What about an argument over something small or seemingly silly? I have been surprised and delighted by how excited the kids are to talk about these arguments. It’s made me realize that arguing is a taboo topic of sorts. And yet arguing is part of all our lives— on a small and large scale. The delight with which I’ve seen students engage with the topic of arguing has been a reminder of how the simple act of acknowledging a thing can be powerful.

Also, drawing people arguing is sooo FUN. I highly recommend it!

Thank you for visiting Behind the Book, Corinna! It was so special, reading the evolution of THE ARGUERS and learning about the conversations that you are already having with readers. I cannot wait to follow the journey of this book!

Wouldn’t you love a copy to call your own? Good news, you can! Here’s how to enter to win:

Win a copy of THE ARGUERS:

Visit @anitraroweschulte on Instagram
Like and tag a friend on THE ARGUERS post by EOD Friday, May 30
Comment below, in this blog post, for an extra entry!
US entries only

The winner will be announced on Saturday, May 31. Wishing you the best of luck!

Spring Scenes

May 12, 2025 Anitra Rowe Schulte

It’s been a really, really wonderful spring, and I would love to tell you all about it! Do you have a minute to catch up? Book things have given me some great reasons to travel, talk about things I care about deeply, spend time some of my favorite people … and meet lovely new folks, too. Here are some pics and stories from the road!

ILLINOIS READING COUNCIL

In March, I went to Springfield, Illinois, to present a session for educators at the 56th Annual Illinois Reading Council Conference with my friend Sarah Aronson, an incredibly dynamic author and writing teacher at The Highlights Foundation.

(Check out her fantastic new picture book release Abzuglutely! Battling, Bellowing Bella Abzug.)

Our session topic for Illinois educators? How to bring the JOY of writing into classrooms, with lots of ideas for supporting students and fostering their creativity - something we are both very passionate about.

I’ll definitely be putting together a proposal for the 2026 event, in the hopes of returning to be a part of the energy and intention of this special conference — and to spend time catching up with Illinois SCBWI members and children’s book authors. Such a great group!

SCHOOL VISITS

Spring is often a very busy time for author visits. Schools everywhere are winding down after state testing and able to take a minute to celebrate and put a bow on a great year. It’s thrilling to be a part of this momentous season. Magic is absolutely everywhere.

In April, I visited a school in Sullivan, Illinois, for two days to share Willow and Bunny, illustrated by Christopher Denise, and talk to students about how they — like the story’s main characters — can help and make a difference in their home and community.

Students told me about cleaning their rooms and helping with dinner. About feeding the goats and making their mom tea.

I hope and pray, more than anything, that students know how much they are needed — exactly as they are — and that they believe it.

In May, I went to Edina, Minnesota, to chat with readers at all grade levels about writing the stories YOU want to read!

We also dove deeply into Dancing with Daddy, illustrated by Ziyue Chen, to discuss activities that connect us, disability, and communication. The questions and ideas shared by the students just blew me away - I loved every single minute.

School visit days just fly by. There are so many thoughtful questions and sincere efforts to learn, understand, contribute and connect. It’s an incredible privilege to write stories for the most curious and heart-guided of humans!

The next stop on the school visit schedule? Omaha, Nebraska! Many thanks to The Bookworm Omaha for supporting school book orders and for hosting a signing while I am in town, too! Click HERE for details - please stop by at 4:30 p.m. on May 15 and say hi, Omaha friends and family!

I would LOVE to visit a grade school near you, as well! Email me at anitraschulte (at) gmail (dot) com, if you’d be open to connecting me to an educator or librarian in your community!

TURKISH EDITION

In the midst of these comings and goings, a package came in the mail… The Turkish edition of Willow and Bunny! Just gorgeous, and a bit surreal, too!

Want a peek inside? Here’s a glimpse!

This is the second foreign language edition of Willow and Bunny that’s been released — the French edition launched last summer. I really tried to get to Paris last fall, to see it in the wild. The trip didn’t come together, sadly. But when I inquired about where I could find the book in the City of Love, I learned that it was in 40 bookstores… in Paris alone!

Isn’t that bananas?

Here’s a pic from Instagram of a French bookseller holding a copy of our book in his store - bah!

Translated into French, Turkish, and next… German!

It’s been extremely special, watching the book evolve in this way - each time, with new font treatments on the gorgeous cover illustration by Caldecott honor artist Christopher Denise. I love imagining our story heading out on these new journeys, on the other side of the world!

COMING SOON

What’s next? In a few weeks, I’ll be launch a new blog feature called Behind the Book, a Q&A with incredible picture book creators, each with a brand new book that you’re gonna want to check out, I promise you. Here’s the line up!

Corinna Luyken, author and illustrator of The Arguers
Antwan Eady, author of The Gathering Table
Gloria Amescua, author of Abuelita’s Song
Jess Hannigan, author and illustrator of The Bear Out There

…with many more on deck!

Each Q&A will include a chance to win a copy of the featured author / illustrator’s new release. Stay tuned for your chance to go Behind the Book, and win a story for your home or school library.

See you back again, very soon!

2024 Picture Book Picks

December 23, 2024 Anitra Rowe Schulte

‘Tis the season for end-of-year book lists! And do I have a good one for you. What makes this list unique? All of the titles in the Picture Book Picks round ups are picture books chosen by picture book authors and illustrators!

An extra meta layer this year: The 7th annual list (the biggest one yet - 25 titles!) is curated by picture book creators whose titles were honored by their peers in 2024, as each contributor to the post is a Crystal Kite Award winner or honoree. The Crystal Kites are a recognition of the Society of Picture Book Authors and Illustrator - an award that spans the globe, celebrating the favorite books of SCBWI-ers far and wide. Congrats to this talented group!

When you receive a book recommendation from a craft-focused creator, you get the very best. Authors and illustrators read a ton within the genre, so when a title rises to the top for them, it’s a very notable thing. Out of all of 2024’s fantastic books, choosing just one is a bit agonizing. But, the curators rose to the task, and here it is! (Spoiler alert: It’s incredible.) So now, it’s my pleasure to reveal:

2024 Picture Book Picks

Atlantic Division

The family of Katey Howes (Instagram: @kidlitlove), winner of the Atlantic Division Crystal Kite for her title WOVEN OF THE WORLD, illustrated by Dinara Mirtalipova, chose A PLACE FOR RAIN by Michelle Schaub, illustrated by Blanca Gómez (Norton Young Readers):

This beautifully crafted picture book invites young readers to explore where rainwater goes and how stormwater runoff can cause pollution in our rivers, ponds, and waterways. Through an inspiring classroom project, children learn to plan and build a rain garden, collecting water and planting native flowers and grasses to help nature thrive. The lively storytelling and vibrant illustrations make the book both informative and engaging, empowering children to take actionable steps to protect the environment.

Rebecca Gardyn Levington (Instagram: @RebeccaGardynLevington), honoree of the Atlantic Division Crystal Kite for her title WHATEVER COMES TOMORROW, illustrated by Mariona Cabassa, chose YOU ARE MY EVERYTHING by Kelly Conroy, illustrated by Abigail Hookham (Tiger Tales):

With my first born headed into his senior year of HS and then to college in a year, I cannot read this book without bawling my eyes out. An absolutely gorgeous, poetic picture book that expresses the deep and forever love we feel for our children, and our understanding of how their arrival changes our lives and the lives who have the privilege and joy of knowing them. Perfect both as a baby shower gift for a soon-to-be mother or a cuddle-up bedtime book to share with the little ones who have already blessed our lives.

California and Hawaii Division

Jilanne Hoffmann (X/Twitter: @Jill_SF), winner of the California and Hawaii Division Crystal Kite for her title A RIVER OF DUST: The Life-Giving Link Between North Africa and The Amazon, illustrated by Eugenia Mello, chose THAT ALWAYS HAPPENS SOMETIMES by Kiley Frank, illustrated by K-Fai Steele (Knopf Books for Young Readers):

I laughed in rueful recognition as the well-meaning MC uses coping strategies to stay focused on the "right" things (and gets derailed, anyway). He whirls about the playground, trying to find friends who are simpatico, but ultimately uses his high-octane brain to "towering" success—at least for the moment. The tenderness of the pitch perfect 1st person POV text and humorous illustrations create empathy and understanding, while letting neurospicy kids like my son feel seen and loved in all their messy glory.

Midsouth Division

Jody Jensen Shaffer (X/Twitter: @jodywrites4kids), winner of the Midsouth Division Crystal Kite for her title CREEP, LEAP, CRUNCH! A Food Chain Story, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal, chose PIZZA FOR BIRDS by Bob Shea (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers):

Bob Shea is masterful at picture book humor, and Pizza for Birds is no exception! Shea's main character, Chez Bob, is equal parts clueless, neurotic, sweet, and lovable. Shea's storytelling, word choices, and details are hysterical. And that ending? Chef's kiss. I'm betting anybody who makes books this clever is quite affable. (IYKYK)

Jess Townes (Instagram: @jesstownesbooks), honoree of the Midsouth Division Crystal Kite for her title SOMETIMES I CRY, illustrated by Daniel Miyares, chose THE MAN WHO DIDN’T LIKE ANIMALS by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by LeUyen Pham (Clarion Books):

This origin story of Old McDonald is a beautiful exploration of perspective-taking and the power of changing our minds. In this richly illustrated book, a man embraces a single story about himself ("I don't like animals") until one day he is confronted with evidence in the form of a friendly cat that causes him to question his story. He opens his small and tidy world to the messiness of community, but also to all of its joy. A must-read for our times!

Midwest Division

Anitra Rowe Schulte (Instagram: @anitraroweschulte), winner of the Midwest Division Crystal Kite for her title WILLOW AND BUNNY, illustrated by Christopher Denise, chose HOME IN A LUNCHBOX by Cherry Mo (Penguin Workshop):

This book just grabbed right hold of my heart. Its beautiful mood-rich palette conveys the emotions of a character who longs (in cool gray-blues) for the comfort and happiness of home. At school, where the language is unfamiliar, worry, discomfort and embarrassment are around every corner. But there is a place that restores her sense of self and place, without fail. In the lunchroom (in swirls of warm pink-golds), she is home - a joy which touchingly connects her to new friends. HOME IN A LUNCH BOX is divine, and I am so glad it came into my world this year!

Jessica Stremer (Instagram: @jlstremer), honoree of the Midwest Division Crystal Kite for her title GREAT CARRIER REEF, illustrated by Gordy Wright, chose THIS BOOK IS FULL OF HOLES: From Underground to Outer Space and Everywhere in Between by Nora Nickum, illustrated by Robert Meganck (Peachtree Publishers):

Sometimes the most simple concept can be the most challenging to pull off, yet in Holes author Nora Nickum makes it look easy. This is the type of book that leaves readers feeling inspired to look more closely at the world around them. The art has massive kid appeal. Just look at the cover! Who wouldn't want to crack this book open. This Book is Full of Holes is at the top of my list for 2024 titles.

New England Division

Abi Cushman (Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/abicushman.com), winner of the New England Division Crystal Kite for her title WOMBATS ARE PRETTY WEIRD: A [Not So] Serious Guide, chose HOW TO PEE YOUR PANTS: The Right Way by Rachel Michelle Wilson (Feiwel & Friends):

We've all been there at some point in our lives. We've peed our pants. This is a really fun, fresh take on a very universal issue kids face. And I love that this book handles the topic with just the right amount of humor and grace, so that kids feel assured that accidents do happen, and it'll all be okay.

Winsome Bingham (Instagram: @armyvetfive), honoree of the New England Division Crystal Kite for her title THE WALK: A Stroll to the Poll, illustrated by E.B. Lewis, chose THE LAST STAND by Antwan Eady, illustrated by Jerome Pumphrey and Jarrett Pumphrey (Knopf Books for Young Readers):

THE LAST STAND did it for me. The persistence and plight of Black farmers is documented so well in this breathtaking picture book written by Antwan Eady and illustrated by the Pumphrey brothers. The book is about a young boy who helps his grandfather at the farmer's market. In the begininng, there were many farmers stands existing. But soon, the stands are dwindling and less farmers are showing up. And when his grandfather gets sick, the young protagonist pushes through delivering the foods to the neighbors. My favorite part was when the neighbors got word that the grandfather is sick, they delivered food to him via his grandson. Any book that shows collective community tugs at my heart. There were many great books in 2024, including three that I wrote. But this one was definitely one of my favorites.

Federico Erebia (Instagram: @federicoerebia), honoree of the New England Division Crystal Kite for his title PEDRO & DANIEL, illustrated by Julie Kwon, chose THE YELLOW BUS by Loren Long (Roaring Brook Press):

The Yellow Bus is a story of the life of a bus over years and decades that is heartwarming and bittersweet. I loved the word choices and pacing. The illustrations are beautiful. Back matter explains how he used 3D models.

New York Division

Suzy Levinson (Instagram: @suzylevinson), honoree of the New York Division Crystal Kite for her title ANIMALS IN PANTS, illustrated by Kristen and Kevin Howdeshell, chose BARNABY UNBOXED! by The Fan Brothers (Tundra Books):

I don’t know how the Fan Brothers do it, but they’ve done it again. Barnaby Unboxed! manages to keep its perfectly imperfect balance, tottering between light and dark, real and weird, gasp-worthy danger and the sweet comfort of home. Friendship, family, fame, forgiveness; it’s all here, in this stunning story about a little pink half-mouse/half-elephant (with a dash of flamingo).

Southeast Division

Kelly Rice Schmitt (Instagram: @krschmittwrites), winner of the Southeast Division Crystal Kite for her title I SHIP: A Container Ship’s Colossal Journey, illustrated by Jam Dong, chose THE BOO-BOOS OF BLUEBELL ELEMENTARY by Chelsea Lin Wallace and Alison Farrell (Chronicle Books):

This charming and hilarious story in stunning verse follows a day in the life of a school nurse with wit and heart. A colorful class of kids keeps Nurse Peatree on her feet as she tends to everyone's ailments inlcuding a loose tooth, upset stomach, homesickness, lice and more. The art includes a fantastic running sidebar of the nurse's logbook with everyone's woes. A delightful read aloud and perfect for school-aged kids, this book is pure joy.

Marta Magellan (Facebook: Marta.Magellan), honoree of the Southeast Division Crystal Kite for her title BEE CATASTROPHE: We'll Miss Them When They're Gone, illustrated by Mauro Magellan, chose UNO MÁS, ONE MORE: A Latino Retelling of an Old Scottish Ballad by Silvia López, illustrated by Olivia Sua (Christy Ottaviano Books):

This book is a delightful version of an old Scottish ballad set instead in Mexico. The welcoming, inclusive family always has room for one more. The house fills to the point of collapse. I love the themes of welcoming others, music, and neighborliness.

Southwest Division

Julie Hedlund (Instagram: @juliefhedlund), winner of the Southwest Division Crystal Kite for her title SONG AFTER SONG: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews, illustrated by Ilaria Urbinati, chose MY DADDY IS A COWBOY by Stephanie Seales, illustrated by C.G. Esperanza (Abrams Books for Young Readers):

Talk about fresh! I have never seen anything like this book before. A father and daughter riding horses in the city streets, with art so emotive it bleeds off the page with joy. I hope to see this one win a Caldecott.

Texas and Oklahoma Division

Chris Barton (Instagram: @bartographyatx), winner of the Texas and Oklahoma Division Crystal Kite for his title GLITTER EVERYWHERE! Where It Came From, Where It’s Found & Where It’s Going, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat, chose I’M SORRY YOU GOT MAD by Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Julie Kwon (Dial Books).

It's one thing to tell readers how to make a good apology. It's a whole 'nother thing -- a very funny, deeply relatable one -- to show them what it looks like to struggle through the process of arriving at a satisfying, meaningful apology and why the effort is worthwhile. There's a terrific book for adults called Getting to Sorry: The Art of Apology at Work and at Home, by Marjorie Ingall and Susan McCarthy, but Lukoff and Kwon have created the perfect manual for readers of any age who could use a highly entertaining lesson in that art in just 32 pages.

Susan Johnston Taylor (Instagram: @UrbanMuseWriter), winner of the Texas and Oklahoma Division Crystal Kite for her title ANIMALS IN SURPRISING SHADES: Poems About Earth’s Colorful Creatures, illustrated by Annie Bakst, chose THE SECRET GARDENS OF FRANCES HODGSON BURNETT by Angelica Shirley Carpenter, illustrated by Helena Pérez Garcîa (Bushel & Peck Books):

Frances Hodgson Burnett's books were a childhood favorite, so I loved learning more about the author behind The Secret Garden, A Little Princess, and others. Angelica Shirley Carpenter's lyrical prose emphasizes Burnett's resilience, while Helena Pérez García's captivating illustrations evoke the magic of childhood and the natural world. A die-cut cover makes this an extra special book that I would've loved as a bookish kid (and still love as an adult).

Sydney Dunlap (Instagram: @sydneydunlapwrites), honoree of the Texas and Oklahoma Division Crystal Kite for her title IT HAPPENED ON SATURDAY, chose I AM A THUNDERCLOUD by Leah Moser, illustrated by Marie Hermansson (Running Press Kids):

This is a heartfelt, beautifully-illustrated book written to help young children navigate their difficult emotions. It is a great story for building emotional intelligence as well as empathy. Bringing in various aspects of nature as metaphors for the main character's journey through anger to calm is a wonderful way to show how emotions can feel, and I also love how there are practical steps that children can use to assist themselves when upset.

West Division

Leslie Barnard Booth (Instagram: @lesliebarnardbooth.books), winner of the West Division Crystal Kite for her title A STONE IS A STORY, illustrated by Marc Martin, chose DIVE, DIVE INTO THE NIGHT SEA by Thea Lu (Candlewick Studio):

I love informational picture books that take me on a journey and teach me something new. This gorgeously illustrated lyrical picture book does just that, immersing the reader in a little-known world—the night sea. Atmospheric illustrations and a lift-the-flap format create an experience of mystery and discovery, encouraging the reader to look closely and observe carefully. When we do, we are rewarded with a deep sense of awe. Each page reveals another creature and describes its nighttime activities, inviting us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the ocean at night.

Carrie Tillotson (Instagram: @carrietillotson), honoree of the West Division Crystal Kite for her title B IS FOR BANANAS, illustrated by Estrela Lourenço, chose MILLIE FLEUR’S POISON GARDEN by Christy Mandin (Orchard Books):

I loved MILLIE FLEUR’S POISON GARDEN, in which we meet Millie Fleur La Fae, a girl who is enthralled with peculiar plants like Fanged Fairy Moss, Tentacled Tansy, and Grumpy Gilliflower. But the residents of Garden Glen, a “picture-perfect place,” don’t like Millie’s strange new garden. They are afraid of new and different things than their perfectly pruned yards—until Millie finds a way to bring prickly people and her wild and weird plants together. Author-illustrator Christy Mandin expertly tackles the idea of staying true to your authentic self and celebrating all that is wonderfully weird in each of us.

Australia, New Zealand & Oceana Division

Elissa Weissman (www.ebweissman.com), winner of the Australia, New Zealand & Oceana Division Crystal Kite for her title HANUKKAH UPSIDE DOWN, illustrated by Omer Hoffman, chose MOON BEAR by Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Carolina T. Godina (Frances Lincoln Ltd):

In this nearly wordless picture book, a girl who’s unsure about the dark befriends a moon bear who’s unsure about the light. The pictures reveal more with every reading, and you can’t help but smile more and more with every page. MOON BEAR is warm, cozy, and glowing with charm.

Prasha Sooful (Instagram: @little_ms_read), honoree of the Australia, New Zealand & Oceana Division Crystal Kite for her title MY BRAIN IS MAGIC: A Sensory-Seeking Celebration, illustrated by Geeta Ladi, chose TIMELESS by Kelly Canby (Fremantle Press):

This clever and visually delightful book explores the theme of time through the eyes of young Emit, whose family yearns for more hours in the day. The text is minimal yet sophisticated, masterfully using time-related idioms and puns to distill complex ideas. The beautiful endpapers invite reflection on our relationship with time and echo Emit's satisfying journey toward finding it.

Canada and North America Division

Lydia Lukidis (X/Twitter: @LydiaLukidis), winner of the Canada and North America Division Crystal Kite for her title DEEP, DEEP DOWN: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench, illustrated by Juan Calle, chose UP, UP, EVER UP! Junko Tabei: A Life in the Mountains by Anita Yasuda, illustrated by Yuko Shimizu (Clarion Books):

This book is phenomenal. First off, hats off to my CP Anita for doing such extensive research and taking the time to figure out how best to tell this story, With wonderfully lyrical text, Anita did such a wonderful job at engaging readers. Then you add Yuko Shimizu's unbelievable illustrations, and magic takes place. This book is a work of art!

Europe and Central, South and Latin America Division

Lawrence Schimel (Bluesky: lawrenceschimel.bsky.social), winner of the Europe and Central, South and Latin America Division Crystal Kite for his (PRONOUN CHECK) title LUCKY ME, illustrated by Juan Camilo Mayorga, chose THE BOOK THAT ALMOST RHYMED by Omar Abed, illustrated by Hatem Aly (Dial):

This picture book is overflowing with fun--as well as rhymes, and almost rhymes, and how rhyming helps two siblings overcome their rivalry to work together and have great adventures together. Pure delight. And so satisfying to know what the missing rhyming words should've been, and to see how, together, the two siblings manage to have an even more exciting time when they discover that the new words actually do rhyme if they tweak the plot a little.

United Kingdom and Ireland Division

Alice Bianchi-Clark (Instagram: @alicebianchiclark), winner of the United Kingdom and Ireland Division Crystal Kite for her title WINDOWS TO THE WORLD, illustrated by Chloe Chang, chose SMALL THINGS MENDED by Casey W. Robinson and illustrated by Nancy Whitesides (Rocky Pond Books):

This picture book is enchanting. It resonates with E. Stead's A Sick Day for Amos McGee vibes with its old man protagonist and its message of healing and community, but comes into its own by tackling grief with an exquisite lightness of touch. Casey W. Robinson's careful choice of words stirs and resonates, while Nancy Whitesides's pink elephant and old-fashioned illustrations, culminating with a warm extravaganza of pastels, tugs at the heartstrings. Keep your eyes peeled because this trailblazer of a picture-book deserves to win the most coveted awards.

Yvonne Banham (Instagram: @yvonnebanham), honoree of the United Kingdom and Ireland Division Crystal Kite for her title THE DARK AND DANGEROUS GIFTS OF DELORES MACKENZIE, chose PANDORA AND THE STORY FORGE by Gaynor Andrews, illustrated by Marie-Alice Harel (Rocket Bird Books):

This beautifully illustrated book tells of Pandora, a wordsmith who collects words and sounds and forges them into stories as they spin and sparkle around her. It's a beautifully illustrated journey that puts the reader at the heart of storytelling, until they too become a wordsmith on the closing page. It's also the most gorgeous reminder of the importance of reading with our children and the difference it makes to their lives.

I hope you enjoyed the 2024 Picture Book Picks list! Be sure to check them out, and then add the curators’ books to your TBR, too! And review them online at the bookseller of your choice, while you’re at it! It’s a small but super meaningful way to help authors and illustrators. For even more recommendations, check out the past six years’ Picture Book Picks lists:

2018 picture book Picks, here
2019 Picture Book Picks, here
2020 Picture Book Picks, here
2021 Picture Book Picks, here
2022 Picture Book Picks, here
2023 Picture Book Picks, here

Thanks for spending some time with our story selections today - happy reading to you and yours, and wishing you a peaceful, engaging, invigorating 2025!