Interviews

A note from the author, Elizabeth Verdick:

Many of my childhood photos have a similar theme: me, with a mop of curly hair and my nose buried in a book. Fast forward to today and you’ll see the same picture, except I’m taller and, I hope, a little wiser. As an avid reader, I feel incredibly lucky to write books for my favorite audience, children. As a mother, I feel great knowing that my books help parents with the hardest—and absolutely most rewarding—job on earth. I hope my books help put a smile on a child’s face and give the feeling of “I can do it!” With the Toddler Tools series, I want to help families build life skills while they have fun reading together. During the toddler years, daily routines and transitions—bedtime, naptime, clean-up time, and so on—are big challenges, and every little success matters. The books are meant to take children and parents through familiar routines in a gentle, positive way. The simple language and colorful illustrations show toddlers learning new skills and celebrating success. Parents and caregivers can use the tips at the end to take the ideas further and personalize their routines.

A note from the illustrator, Marieka Heinlen:

As an illustrator, I always have two objectives. The first is to create artwork that truly engages young children. I try to see the world through their eyes, brimming with color and positivity. I keep my images bright, bold, and simple with fun details. Many people tell me kids like finding a paw waving among hands or a doll changing expression, little jokes just for them. The other goal is to try new mediums. I started with pencils and paints, moved into creating art electronically, and am currently playing with fabrics and collage. A lot of the vintage fabrics reminded me of my own childhood—other readers may get that warm, fuzzy feeling from them as well. Making art for children is a joy, and using it to teach them is a privilege.