Erik Brooks's Blog, page 105
May 13, 2011
Polar Opposites Russian Nesting Dolls
On Saturday, May 21st, Little Star Montessori School is holding its semi-annual fund raising auction -- a typically gala event, representing an incredible effort put fourth by many dedicated volunteers.
Inspired by the Room One soup bowl auction from last fall, I thought I'd create something a little unique and different to accompany my more traditional offering of signed books. And thus we have... the Polar Opposites Russian nesting dolls (plus Howard and Quince from Slow Days, Fast Friends, and the pajama pattern from The Practically Perfect Pajamas. Alex and Howard are both holding miniature replicas of their respective books, and the tallest of these doll stands about 5.5 inches.
Locals, get your tickets today!
May 9, 2011
All Things Considered
Phew! I'm up to my ears in a picture book project right now and have been completely neglecting the blog... So it goes, and as it should be. Anyway, soon enough I'll have some nice work-in-progress to show for my efforts.In the mean time, my editor at Albert Whitman had her new book, The Wilder Life, featured on All Things Considered this afternoon. Congrats on a very nice interview Wendy!
And here's another Q & A session with A.V. Club Chicago.
March 31, 2011
A Bill Martin Jr. Picture Book Award Nominee!
Polar Opposites
was recently nominated for the Kansas Reading Association's 2012 Bill Martin Jr. Picture Book Award.
Established in 1996, this award serves to honor internationally renowned Kansas author Bill Martin, Jr., as well as commend outstanding authors/illustrators. It also promotes in young children an appreciation for literature and encourages involvement in promoting quality picture books. Please click here to read more about Bill Martin Jr.The 2012 voting is a long ways off, but this is still some excellent news on a blustery spring-like afternoon. A big thanks to the KRA and everyone else that has been enjoying this book. I'll keep you posted on what happens next!
March 28, 2011
Spring!
Spring is finally on it's way, and my daughter's teacher is expecting a baby girl. Here is a quick baby shower card that I painted this afternoon :)
March 15, 2011
Art on the Side
In recent weeks, I've completed a few small freelance assignments that are kind of fun and "blog worthy". For starters, a friend here in Winthrop is trying to get her "Pampered Hens" business up and running. She'll be selling eggs and birds as I understand it. Pretty much, Jane loves chickens. She's totally infatuated, and will no doubt turn this into a successful pedigree poultry operation out of sheer and delirious enjoyment :)
Simultaneously, my cousin's husband is releasing a folk rock album any day now. Matt made the mistake of recruiting me for album art just before Christmastime... and I finally fit it in amongst the paying projects :)
Cursed are the Scorekeepers
by Matt Belknap will be found here in due course!
March 8, 2011
From library cards... to library vans!
In October, I mentioned my involvement in creating the North Central Regional Library System's "Lynx" to Literacy. The library's literacy site is up and running, as are these specially marked delivery vans that do such a great job of keeping our vast geographical library system interconnected.
March 7, 2011
A Sno-Isle Library Surprise :)
I created a new Sno-Isle Kids mascot and website design about two years ago. Recently, I learned that Otis the otter and Squirt the octopus hold esteemed positions on library cards! Color me awesomely honored, and three cheers for libraries. Hooray! Haroo! Hurrah!
March 3, 2011
Six kinds of Awesome in Black Diamond!
I'm right in the middle of a two-day school visit, but these kids were totally psyched about the visit. I need to get a few close-up photos, but each letter on my name (plus two exclamation points!) in picture no. 1 is illustrated with characters/scenes etc. from one of my books. Not to mention all of the AMAZING positively perfect pajama art!
Way to go Black Diamond. I'll see you tomorrow!
March 2, 2011
Happy Read Across America Day!
And Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss :) I'm celebrating by making three different complimentary elementary school visits in Kirkland, WA and making an appearance at Parkplace Books tonight at 6:30. Now, to properly honor the good Dr. AND all of the amazing children's book art and design out there -- I would challenge the National Education Association to get a better promotional poster next year!
