Jessica Haight's Blog, page 137

Corduroy's Lost Button

This week, I decided to pick out a story from my own special collection. Corduroy by Don Freeman is a book that my mom would read to me when I was Margo's age. I pulled it off of the shelf, and my mom sat us down. Margo was enraptured by this teddy bear's tale. She desperately wanted Corduroy to find his missing button, and was on pins and needles as he tried to pull one off of a mattress. We had fun following along on his adventure through the closed department store. Margo has been spending a lot of time with her favorite stuffed horse, Mr. Fazzy, and I find myself lost once again in memories of listening to this story. Experiencing it through the eyes of my little sister is priceless. Sharing a story you enjoy with someone you love is such a special feeling.

When the store closes and the lights go out, Corduroy suddenly realizes that he is missing his button. Struck with worry, he sets out on an adventure through the maze of imagination that awaits him in the secret world of the quiet department store. But, when he causes a crash, a nightwatchman finds him and puts him back up on the shelf. The next day, a young girl takes notice of the lonely teddy with only one button. Will Corduroy ever find his missing button? Will the little girl decide to take Corduroy home? You will have to read this adorable, classic children's picture book to find out! It is one of my favorite stories. The illustrations are marvelous, and I know that it will be a story that Margo will always treasure, just as I have.

Has anyone else read Corduroy by Don Freeman?

Happy reading! ~ F

Corduroy by Don Freeman:
Have you ever dreamed of being locked in a department store at night? The endearing story of Corduroy paints a picture of the adventures that might unfold (for a teddy bear at least) in such a situation. When all the shoppers have gone home for the night, Corduroy climbs down from the shelf to look for his missing button. It's a brave new world! He accidentally gets on an elevator that he thinks must be a mountain and sees the furniture section that he thinks must be a palace. He tries to pull a button off the mattress, but he ends up falling off the bed and knocking over a lamp. The night watchman hears the crash, finds Corduroy, and puts him back on the shelf downstairs. The next morning... read more .

☞ Barnes and Noble ☞ Read the reviews!



FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Top of the Heap!

Monday's Riddle reminded us that it is always best to be kinder than necessary, and Lizzy's review of Charlotte's Web by E.B. White showed us the immeasurable value of friendship. Friday, Margo has something special in mind, and Saturday, we look forward to hearing from all of you on The DMS Wants to Know ! Today, we thought we would spotlight two very inspirational acts of kindness that show us what amazing things people can accomplish when they set their minds to it.

This week's top of the heap: Great acts of kindness and intuition : ) 

Fairday: I wanted to bring up a wonderful woman who we have spotlighted here on the blog before. Christine Ieronimo  is an upcoming children's author who has been dedicated to helping the people of Ethiopia acquire schooling, clean water, and supplies to help their communities evolve and prosper. She focuses on the education of young girls, supplying them with books and other goods and products that help provide them with better life situations.

Christine has worked as a registered nurse for over nineteen years. She has recently written a children's picture book entitled Through Eva's Eyes , which is loosely based on the adoption of her Ethiopian daughter, Eva. We were lucky enough to get to meet with Christine and hear her speak about her experience writing her book, and we learned so much about what is happening in that part of our world. She is an inspiration to listen to, and a wonderful person to get to know. Her book will be for sale in stores soon. It is a lovely story with a very positive message. So, here's to Christine and her dedication to helping others in need. Her message is one of kindness and reason; pass on the the knowledge, lend a helping hand, and everybody wins. ~ F


Lizzy: The Little Free Library is a new idea that is circulating around these days. One neighborly gesture turned into a global movement, and people have begun swapping stories for free. All of this is thanks to Todd Bol , who put a handcrafted box out and filled it with free books to giveaway. The idea of sharing stories without a price or promise seemed to really have a charge, and now millions of people are joining in and passing on the good word. So, here's to an inspired act of generosity that brings books to those who want to read them. Happy reading! ~ L


FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Some Pig!

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White is a book I love each and every time I read it. When Fern finds out her father is going to kill the runt pig that was just born, she can’t let it happen. She rushes to save the pig “who will never amount to anything”. Right from the start, Fern adores her pig, Wilbur, more than anything. She showers him with love and affection. Once he is in the barnyard Wilbur is happy and enjoys chatting with the other animals. But, when he finds out that he is destined to be slaughtered, he is beside himself with worry and sadness. Luckily, his good and wise friend, Charlotte (a spider), devises a plan to keep Wilbur alive. Not only does she keep him among the living, but she brings him into the spotlight in a way that no other pig has ever been spotlighted before! The pig that has messages written in webs becomes famous across the country! Next stop- the county fair! Journey along with Fern, Charlotte, Wilbur, and the other barnyard animals to discover what happens when friends help each other and use their minds.
I recommend this book to people from third grade through adulthood. If you like books that touch your heart and make you want to be kinder, then this is a story you will certainly enjoy. I think the friendship between Charlotte and Wilbur is one we can all learn from. Even Templeton, the rat, shows us a few things about what is right and what is wrong. There is laughter, clever antics, and sadness in the pages of this book. Along with the words are drawings that add to the reader’s enjoyment. This is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. It is a story that shouldn’t be missed!
Has anyone else read Charlotte’s Web? Or another book by E.B.White?
Happy reading!
~LFEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Answer to Monday's Riddle! Be Kinder Than Necessary

Planting the Seeds of Kindness by Frederick Zappone Great guessing Riddlers! Alex is correct! Kindness is the answer to the riddle. Wonder by R. J. Palacio was our clue, pointing out that it's important to remember to be kinder than necessary, and though we are all different, we are all exactly the same. Treating others the way you want to be treated just makes sense!

This week, Lizzy's review will be lovely, and Thursday we are looking forward to chatting about some wonderful acts of kindness that we've encountered on Top of the Heap . Friday, Margo will be chiming in with her two cents, and Saturday, we can't wait to hear from you on The DMS Wants to Know! So, happy reading in this bright, new year! See you all around the book block ; ) ~ F

I am something great that comes from within, an act or deed that inspires a grin. I bring with me a feeling of cheer- lessening the trouble and replacing the fear. I need no thank you, I ask for no pay- I only wish to brighten your day. You'll be amazed when you suddenly see all the good things you can do with me!

What am I? Answer: Kindness


FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Monday's Riddle! An Act Unmeasured...

Hello Riddlers! It's that time again! Can you guess the theme this week? I try to be this more than is necessary ; ) ~ F

I am something great that comes from within, an act or deed that inspires a grin. I bring with me a feeling of cheer- lessening the trouble and replacing the fear. I need no thank you, I ask for no pay- I only wish to brighten your day. You'll be amazed when you suddenly see all the good things you can do with me!

What am I?

I gave you a clue!


Clue! FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

The DMS Wants to Know!

Monday's Riddle set us on track for a bright new beginning this year, and Fairday reviewed the classic middle grade book Ellen Tebbits by Beverly Cleary. Thursday on Top of the Heap , Stephanie and Jess popped by to tell us about their first steps to becoming authors, and don't forget, there's still time to enter the Happy New Year 2013 Book Giveaway Hop- enter for your chance to win a signed hardcover edition of the spooky new middle grade book The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow. This hop runs until Monday, January 7th. Friday, children's illustrator, Barbara McClintock , stopped by to tell us a little more about the story behind the unique children's book Leave Your Sleep by Natalie Merchant . It was truly an honor to get to meet her at the 2012 UCONN Children's Book Fair, and we were happy to be able to share more about her experience as an illustrator with all of you! The Drawing Contest has been extended until February 3rd, 2013. So, if you're feeling inspired, pick up a pencil, and send us your artwork! Today, we want to hear from you!

The DMS wants to know: 
What's something new that you hope to begin? 

We told you ours! Now, let's hear yours : ) 


FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Interview with Illustrator Barbara McClintock

The DMS was lucky enough to interview  Barbara McClintock , illustrator of the lovely children's picture book Leave Your Sleep .  Recently, we reviewed this unique compilation of children's poems and music, and it was great to share our thoughts about it and hear yours! We are excited to learn a little bit more about the story behind the story. So, without further ado... take it away, Barbara! 


What was your experience like working on Leave Your Sleep with Natalie Merchant?Our editor, Frances Foster, was in the standard editor role acting as traffic cop/coordinator on the project. Natalie, the art director Roberta Presseler and I worked very closely with Frances, and she relayed information between us. Natalie visited me in my studio as we were working on the project. Once the artwork was in, Natalie and I have been speaking together at events, and we just filmed a video in a public school in NYC together, working with elementary school children. Natalie, Frances, and I had a closely- overlapping vision of the book - it was an exhilarating project for all of us. 
 How long did it take you to illustrate Leave Your Sleep?About a year and a half Natalie Merchant & Barbara McClintock working on Leave Your Sleep
Where do you draw your inspiration from? Were there any specific illustrators who inspired you? 

 I love the work of JJ Grandville , Gustav Dore , Thomas Rowlandson , and Randolf Caldecott . They are my constant mentors and guides. 

Which was your favorite poem to illustrate in Leave Your Sleep?


THE EQUESTRIANNE was a lot of fun to work on - I had a horse when I was young, and take riding lessons at a nearby stable. I copied anatomical drawings of horses by George Stubbs (a 19th century painter who specialized in horses ), drew from plastic horse models as well as drawing live horses, and watched many, many YouTube videos of bareback circus riders. Next lifetime, I'd like to come back as a circus rider!  

If you could befriend a character from any book, who would you befriend? Why?

Ebenezer Bleezer, because I could get all the cool ice cream I wanted! 

Where do you like to draw? Do you listen to music while you are working?

I have a studio in my home where I do all my drawing. I listen to music, or the radio, or audible books, or even movies and HBO series on Netflix while I work. It's like having office mates as I'm working! 





If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?

I've travelled a lot, and there are so many places I love. Paris is my favorite city, but I love London and New York and Hong Kong, too. Where I am right now in Windham, Ct is my ideal place to live. I find that having a comfortable, secure home base where I can work and have friends is perfect; as long as I'm near an airport, I can commute to anyplace I want to go. I'm very connected to other authors and illustrators around the world thru the internet, so I can be in France, Spain, China, and Italy while sipping my morning coffee in my circa 1815 brick house, looking out over the rose garden that my significant other, David Johnson, has planted and tends. 


Where can we purchase your books ?

The UConn co-op bookstore , of course! Or, you can go to my website, barbaramcclintockbooks.com , go to the books link, and order from there. 

☞ Amazon ☞  Barnes and Noble


  


Read the reviews!







**We were also very lucky to get to meet with Barbara McClintock at the 2012 UCONN Children's Book Fair . It was amazing to listen to her talk about her experience as an illustrator and learn more about her books! 



Click here to check out the 2012 UCONN Children's book fair : ) FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Author Interview with Barbara McClintock

The DMS was lucky enough to interview  Barbara McClintock , illustrator of the lovely children's picture book Leave Your Sleep .  Recently, we reviewed this lovely compilation of children's poems and music, and it was great to share our thoughts about it and hear yours! We are excited to learn a little bit more about the story behind the story. So, without further ado... take it away, Barbara! 


What was your experience like working on Leave Your Sleep with Natalie Merchant?Our editor, Frances Foster, was in the standard editor role acting as traffic cop/coordinator on the project. Natalie, the art director Roberta Presseler and I worked very closely with Frances, and she relayed information between us. Natalie visited me in my studio as we were working on the project. Once the artwork was in, Natalie and I have been speaking together at events, and we just filmed a video in a public school in NYC together, working with elementary school children. Natalie, Frances, and I had a closely- overlapping vision of the book - it was an exhilarating project for all of us. 
 How long did it take you to illustrate Leave Your Sleep?About a year and a half Natalie Merchant & Barbara McClintock working on Leave Your Sleep
Where do you draw your inspiration from? Were there any specific illustrators who inspired you? 

 I love the work of JJ Grandville , Gustav Dore , Thomas Rowlandson , and Randolf Caldecott . They are my constant mentors and guides. 
Which was your favorite poem to illustrate in Leave Your Sleep?
THE EQUESTRIANNE was a lot of fun to work on - I had a horse when I was young, and take riding lessons at a nearby stable. I copied anatomical drawings of horses by George Stubbs (a 19th century painter who specialized in horses ), drew from plastic horse models as well as drawing live horses, and watched many, many YouTube videos of bareback circus riders. Next lifetime, I'd like to come back as a circus rider!  
If you could befriend a character from any book, who would you befriend? Why?
Ebenezer Bleezer, because I could get all the cool ice cream I wanted! 
Where do you like to draw? Do you listen to music while you are working?
I have a studio in my home where I do all my drawing. I listen to music, or the radio, or audible books, or even movies and HBO series on Netflix while I work. It's like having office mates as I'm working! 
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?
I've travelled a lot, and there are so many places I love. Paris is my favorite city, but I love London and New York and Hong Kong, too.
Where I am right now in Windham, Ct is my ideal place to live.

I find that having a comfortable, secure home base where I can work and have friends is perfect; as long as I'm near an airport, I can commute to anyplace I want to go. I'm very connected to other authors and illustrators around the world thru the internet, so I can be in France, Spain, China, and Italy while sipping my morning coffee in my circa 1815 brick house, looking out over the rose garden that my significant other, David Johnson, has planted and tends. 

Where can we purchase your books?
The UConn co-op bookstore , of course! Or, you can go to my website, barbaramcclintockbooks.com , go to the books link, and order from there. 
☞ Amazon ☞  Barnes and Noble
  


Read the reviews!







**We were also very lucky to get to meet with Barbara McClintock at the 2012 UCONN Children's Book Fair . It was amazing to get to listen to her talk about her experience as an illustrator and learn more about her books! 


Click here to check out the 2012 UCONN Children's book fair : ) FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Top of the Heap!

Monday's Riddle was a new beginning, and Fairday started 2013 off with a fun review of the classic middle grade book Ellen Tebbits by Beverly Clearly . Friday, Barbara McClintock will be stopping by to tell us a little more about the story behind the lovely children's book she illustrated Leave Your Sleep by Natalie Merchant , and don't forget the Happy New Year 2013 Book Giveaway Hop is happening on Fairday's Blog! Pop by to enter for your chance to win a signed hardcover edition of the spooky, new middle grade novel The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow by J. Haight & S. Robinson .

Today, we thought it would be fun to tell you about our new beginning becoming authors. So...

This week's top of the heap: Starting something new!



Becoming an author- what an adventure to embark upon! We have been hanging out with each other since we were fifteen years old, and books have always been a big part our friendship. Harry Potter was a great influence, and for the last twelve years, we have been putting on a Harry Potter party/ trivia game for Stephanie's fifth grade class. So, when we sat down and decided to write a book, we took the idea seriously, and though we were nervous about it, we were also excited to begin.

It all started on Stephanie's front porch. We sat down and fleshed out the idea for the story. Originally, Jess had written a poem entitled Ruby Begonia and the High-Heeled Sneakers . She had attempted to try to publish for about a year, but to no avail. But, the idea was there, and it was a good one. So, we took the concept and decided to turn it into a middle grade chapter book. Fairday and the DMS popped onto the scene, and the story began to take shape.


Jess & Stephanie with Grace Lin We collaborated using Google Docs to craft the story. We began to get involved with other authors in our genre, attend book fairs, and participate in writers' conferences. All of this was new, and somewhat scary- however, also fascinating. The more we learned and opened ourselves up to the experience, the more fun we had.

Pile of Manuscripts The journey of becoming a writer is amazing, and with so many advancements in technology, we are able to meet and network with authors and illustrators all over the world. Our middle grade book has taken on a life of its own, and we continue to grow and change as it evolves. It's been a great experience working as friends on such a fun project.





The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow
J. Haight & S. RobinsoThis adventure has no end, but keeps on expanding. It's a marvelously creative outlet, and we have been able to chat with some really amazing authors and bloggers!

So here's to new beginnings!
May the odds be ever in your favor ; ) ~ Jess & Stephanie








FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED

Psst! Ellen Tebbits Has A Secret...

Ellen Tebbits has a secret, but no one to share it with. So, when she finds someone else who has to wear horrible woolen winter underpants, finally she's not alone anymore. Even though Austine is the new girl, they become fast friends and spend as much time together as possible. The only other thing that would make everything perfect is if her teacher would choose her to clap the erasers. For some reason, she never gets picked for this chore, and she desperately wants to feel that chalk dust fly! It seems so magical. But, Ellen is just thankful that she had found such a wonderful new best friend, and she can't believe how much fun she's having. When the two girls ask their moms to make them identical dresses for the first day of fourth grade, they set the spark in motion and rush to pick out matching fabric. All summer long, the talk is about the dresses and how fabulous it will be to look like twins. Ellen can't wait. But, at the last minute, there's a problem. Austine's dress doesn't come out as nice as Ellen's, and when a simple tug unties a pretty sash, everything begins to come undone. Their bright, new friendship starts to fade, and Ellen doesn't know what to do. Will Austine and Ellen wear their new dresses? Will they be able to stay friends? What will happen when school starts? Will Ellen ever get to clap the erasers? You will have to read this classic to find out!


Ellen Tebbits by Beverly Cleary is one of my favorite middle grade novels. I love Ellen, and can easily relate to her. The relationship between the two girls is genuine and the way their friendship blossoms is fun to follow along with. The characters are realistic and the writing is fantastic. The simple illustrations really add to the style and rhythm of the book. It's about new beginnings, friendship, and self discovery. A great story to pass along to someone who loves to read a fun book with excellent characters and lovely scenery ; ) Happy reading! ~ F

Has anyone else read Ellen Tebbits or anything other books by Beverly Cleary?
FEAR NOT THE UNEXPECTED