Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures (Newbery Medal Winner)

As an avid reader of graphic novels, I love illustrated books. And if an illustrated edition of one of my favorite books comes out, you know I’m all over it. But beyond just pretty illustrations that are beautiful to look at, illustrated chapter books can serve another purpose. Often, they can help young readers as […]

Since 1922, the American Library Association has awarded the Newbery Medal to one title a year in recognition of the contribution to children’s literature of American authors. It is the oldest children’s book award in the world and recipients are amongst esteemed company. Over the past ten years, a diverse selection of books has received […]

When I set out to write The Simple Art of Flying, a present-day book told largely from the perspective of a surly African grey, I’d feared it wouldn’t find a warm reception. But like with the following books, compelling characters and unusual voices, whether they come from persnickety parrots or wise old wolfhounds, have a […]

Much attention has been to the Very Big Questions lurking inside classics like The Little Prince, Winnie-the-Pooh, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and A Wrinkle in Time. Contemporary middle grade novels ask some pretty huge questions, too—often stealthily sneaking these Big Ideas into works that are lighthearted in feel. That’s what I tried to do in […]