Behind-the-scenes peek into picture book writing & illustration process with Hazel Mitchell (SWEET PEA SUMMER, Candlewick)

Hazel Mitchell has helped create more than twenty children's books, including her award-winning picture book Toby (Candlewick Press). Her illustrations appear in books by Cynthia Lord, JaNay Brown-Wood (Imani's Moon was mentioned on the Stephen Colbert show!), Lynn Parrish Sutton, Liza Gardner Walsh and others. You can find out more about Hazel and her work at HazelMitchell.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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Advice for young writers from Anna Lazowski, debut picture book author of T.REXES CAN'T TIE THEIR SHOES (illustrated by Steph Laberis)

Looking for a hugely entertaining alphabet book that also has an uplifting message of empowerment for young readers? I highly recommend T. REXES CAN'T TIE THEIR SHOES by Anna Lazowski and Steph Laberis, launching June 29th, 2021 from Doubleday Books For Young Readers. The back matter also has an alphabetized factoid list of "all the amazing things animals CAN do!"

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How A Picture Book Got Turned Into A Graphic Novel: Interview with Ken Lamug (MISCHIEF AND MAYHEM)

Author-illustrator Ken Lamug has created award-winning picture books and graphic novels. Born in the Philippines, Ken moved to the US with his entire family during his teenage years. His new middle grade graphic novel, MISCHIEF AND MAYHEM: BORN TO BE BAD, launches this week from Katherine Tegen Books / HarperCollins!

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Writing Routines, Agent Queries, and Rollercoaster POVs: Jake Maia Arlow on Her MG Debut ALMOST FLYING

By Sara Truuvert

Sweaty palms, shaking limbs, and the distinct possibility of puking. Am I describing riding a rollercoaster or having a crush in middle school? These two thrill rides collide in Jake Maia Arlow's MG debut Almost Flying.

The novel follows thirteen-year-old Dalia, who has planned the perfect summer: finally ride a rollercoaster and make a new best friend. But when Dalia realizes she might have more-than-friend feelings for the new girl on her swim team, Rani, things start to get complicated.

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Reading During The Pandemic: Poll Results

Thanks to all who responded to my Reading Habits poll! I've posted the results below. Please keep in mind that this survey was informal and in no way meant to be an accurate reflection of the industry as a whole. You can see my other informal surveys and polls here.

And here are the results....

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