Eric Carle
This is the week that we lost Eric Carle, a giant of the world of children’s literature. He wasn’t just an amazing illustrator and author, he was a champion of picture books for the preschool set–the very youngest readers.
Books like The Very Hungry Caterpillar (listen to Carle read his own words and get a glimpse of his studio here) and Brown Bear, Brown Bear are perfectly suited to children just learning about language, art, and story. Carle was one of the first to write and illustrate books for kids this young with superb dedication and artistry. These are books that are narratively elegant and visually stunning–those colors! Those pristine white backgrounds! Those simple and powerful shapes!
He brought not only his skill, but also his respect, to that audience. He is (present tense, always) a writer who understands the courage it takes to be two, or three, or four, or five, in a world that’s overwhelming both in its joys and its challenges.
Not everyone knows this, but when writing for kids, the younger the audience, the tougher the task. Carle took on the toughest audience of all and captivated them. He’ll be much missed.
Read MoreWombat Art!
So excited to see some sample art from the talented Charles Santoso for WOMBAT UNDERGROUND. Love the richness of the colors and the contrast between under- and aboveground!
Congrats!
Congratulations to all the amazing artists and writers and editors who created this year’s award winners!
The Newbery to a graphic novel–first time in history!–and a Newbery Honor to a picture book text. My, my. The committee was very avant garde this year. Love it! Cheers to all!
Read More
Fingers Crossed
The choice of an artist really creates a picture book–it doesn’t truly exist until art and words come together. The lovely and talented Erin Robinson is considering illustrating one of my picture book manuscripts at the moment. With her it would be a dreamy, rich, poetic, evocative, emotional book. Keep your fingers crossed, everyone–I really want to see the book that would result from her art and my words!
Sarah L. Thomson
A children’s book author publishing award-winning nonfiction, poetry, picture books and novels including…
“Thomson focuses on newfound connection, magic, and suspense to conjure a fast-paced, heartwarming mystery. Thomson’s world is populated by resourceful protagonists, fanciful creatures, and quirky supporting characters.”
—Publishers Weekly