It's a happenin' scene...
Suzanne Jacobs Lipshaw
I CAMPAIGNED FOR ICE CREAM: A BOY'S QUEST FOR ICE CREAM TRUCKS (Warren Publishing, April 2019) Suzanne Jacobs Lipshaw is a children’s book author and elementary special education teacher who is passionate about growing young minds through her teaching and writing. The proud momma of two grown boys, Suzanne lives in Waterford, MI with her husband and furry writing companion Ziggy. When she’s not dreaming up new teaching or writing projects, you can find her kayaking on the lake, hiking the trail, practicing at the yoga studio, or comparing paint swatches at the local Sherwin Williams. Website: www.SuzanneJacobsLipshaw.com Twitter: @SuzanneLipshaw Facebook: Suzanne Jacobs Lipshaw – Author/Educator |
Pippa Chorley
COUNTING SHEEP (Marshall Cavendish, April 5, 2019) Pippa Chorley grew up in a chocolate box village in Cheshire, England. She spent her time inventing stories in her garden and creating magical worlds in the woods on their family dog walks. Pippa went on to study English Literature and Creative Writing at university in the UK where she wrote, read, studied and wrote some more, and she has never stopped reading and writing since! Pippa now lives in Singapore with her husband and three children. She can often be found helping out in their classrooms as she is a qualified Primary School Teacher reading stories to the class. She is always amazed by the children’s creativeness and gets many of her storybook ideas from spending time with them. If you ever want to meet her, she can often be found inventing a new story on her morning dog walks around Singapore with her spaniel Jasper. Website: http://pippachorleystories.com Twitter: @PippaChorley Facebook: Pippa Chorley Instagram: @pippachorley |
Vanessa Keel
BOOMER AT YOUR SERVICE (Clear Fork/Spork Publishing, October 15, 2019) With a successful career in Advertising, Vanessa Keel thrives in the deadline-driven world of an author. She writes with commercial possibilities in mind and strives to find a deeper purpose with her books. BOOMER AT YOUR SERVICE, will teach readers about service dogs while raising awareness for Merlin’s Kids- an incredible organization devoted to rescuing shelter dogs and placing them with special needs children. A member of SCBWI and Children’s Book Academy graduate, she is eager to share her stories. When she’s not penning picture books, you can find Vanessa “mommying” and pawing at any dog that crosses her path. Website: www.vanessakeel.com Twitter: @KeelBooks Facebook: Vanessa Keel Books Instagram: @vform |
Tina Shephardson
WALKOUT (Clear Fork/Spork Publishing, TBD 2019) An award winning teacher for 30 years, Tina has shared books with children her entire life . As a teen, she wrote books, tied them with string, and read them to children she babysat. She is an active member of SCBWI, an admin for the Debut Picture Book Study Group, a Children's Book Academy graduate and a member of 12x12. In her spare time, she can be found in Upstate New York with her family walking their akitas, spending time at camp, eating chocolate and enjoying the latest snowstorm. Website: www.tinashepardson.com Facebook: Tina M. Shepardson-Author Twitter: @ShepardsonTina Instagram: @Hank_Madeleine |
June McCrary Jacobs
RES-Q TYLER STOP (JMJ Story Stitcher Books, April 23, 2019) June McCrary Jacobs was the winner of Cedar Fort Publishing's 2013 Holiday Tale Contest for 'A Holiday Miracle in Apple Blossom'. 'Robin's Reward', her first full-length novel, was released in 2015. A World War II inspirational romance short story, 'Handmade Hearts', was released in early 2019. June's debut middle-grade novel, 'RES-Q Tyler Stop', a historical novel set in Sonoma County, California, in 1968, will be released in the spring of 2019. Over one hundred of June's original sewing designs have been published in books and magazines. June enjoys visiting art and history museums and touring historic homes and gardens. Website: https://authorjunemccraryjacobs.blogspot.com/ Facebook: June McCrary Jacobs |
Sarah Glenn Fortson
THIS COWGIRL AIN'T KIDDIN' ABOUT THE POTTY (Peter Pauper Press, October 2019) I officially became a writer in high school when Sister Mary Angeline pulled me aside, shook her finger in my face and said, “Sarah Glenn Fortson, if you don’t do something with your writing it will be a sin.” To avoid a life of sin, I chose journalism as my undergraduate major. Since then, I’ve earned two degrees in education. I’ve taught, consulted, coordinated, administered and continued to write. I love discovering unusual stories when I travel to new places. I’m a dual citizen of Chicago/Atlanta. In addition to writing, I hike and paint while listening to stories on Audible. Website: www.sarahglennfortson.com Twitter: @Sarah_Fortson Facebook: Sarah Glenn Fortson |
Jennifer Buchet
LITTLE MEDUSA’S HAIR DO-LEMMA (Clear Fork/Spork Publishing, Late 2019) Jennifer Buchet is an award-winning author, major foodie, and a pre-kindergarten teacher. She's written everything from angst-filled diaries and fourth grade newspapers, to advertising copy and blogs. Yet her heart as always belonged to kid lit. She has been a feature contributor for Cricket Magazines since 2011, writing over fifty articles and interviews for AppleSeeds and Faces magazines. Jennifer is also an active member of many writing communities, including SCBWI and 12x12. When Jennifer's not helping coach softball or managing book fairs, she is hunting down that elusive creature called spare time, when she enjoys a good read, creates magical meals, and crushes her family in games of Catan. She hopes to one day live in an Irish country cottage, writing her days away amongst family, friends and a pack of Irish Wolfies. Website: www.BuchetBooks.com Twitter: @Yangmommy |
Connie Bergstein Dow
FROM A TO Z WITH ENERGY! (Free Spirit Publishing, March, 2019) Dance has always been a part of Connie’s life. After attending Denison University, she received her MFA in Dance from the University of Michigan. She danced professionally in the US and Latin America, and has taught dance throughout her career. She has written two books for teachers, both published by Redleaf Press, and has written articles in journals and verses in Highlights. She is thrilled that her first picture book, From A to Z with Energy!, Free Spirit Publishing, will debut in March. Connie shares her passion for movement by writing, teaching, visiting schools, volunteering, and creating community dance events. Website: www.movingislearning.com Facebook: Moving Is Learning Twitter: @cbergsteindow |
Laurie Smollett Kutscera
MISADVENTURES OF A MAGICIAN'S SON (Blue Whale Press, Fall 2019) Author/Illustrator, Laurie Smollett Kutscera grew up in NYC’s Greenwich Village when bongos were all the rage. She studied fine art, calligraphy and children’s book illustration at Queens College with Caldecott medalist Marvin Bileck. She is an award-winning graphic designer, a published children’s book illustrator, and toy designer. Laurie’s passion for writing began 14 years ago while cruising the eastern seaboard from Nantucket to the Virgin Islands. She is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, 12x12 Picture Book Challenge and Children's Book Academy. Laurie lives on the north shore of Long Island with her husband Nick and rescue doggie, Cody. Website: www.LSKillustration.com twitter: @lkutscera Facebook: Laurie Smollett Kutscera Instagram: @lauriekutscera |
June Smalls
ODD ANIMAL ABC'S (Blue Manatee Press, April 16, 2019) June Smalls has been making up stories since she only had pets and stuffed animals to share them with. With her first poem published in first grade, June got the writing bug and never quit. June is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and a lover of literature. She resides in Northern Virginia with her hubby, The Kid, and an ever-growing assortment of animals. When not writing, June is researching, visiting zoos or aquariums, reading, or trying to convince her hubby they have room for just one more pet. Website: www.junesmalls.com Twitter: @June_Smalls Facebook: June Smalls |
Jamie Sumner
ROLL WITH IT (Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster, Sept. 3, 2019) Jamie Sumner is the author of the forthcoming middle-grade novel, Roll with It. Her second and third middle-grade novels with Atheneum Books for Young Readers will be coming out in 2020 and 2021. She is also the author of the nonfiction book on motherhood, Unbound. She’s written for the New York Times and the Washington Post, as well as other publications and is the reviews editor at Literary Mama. She’s also a mom to a son with cerebral palsy and she writes and speaks about disability in literature. She loves stories that celebrate the grit and beauty in all kids. She and her family live in Nashville, Tennessee. Website: www.jamie-sumner.com Facebook: JamieSumner.org Twitter: @jamiesumner_ Instagram: @jamiesumner_author |
Lisa Kalma
MY LLAMA DRAMA (Brindie Publishing, Late April/Early May 2019) Lisa is an author, primary school teacher, and all-round creative type. She lives with her husband, son and elderly cat in Canberra, Australia. She’s passionate about developing children’s literacy skills through quality picture books and children’s literature, and enjoys entertaining children with dynamic book readings. Lisa has written stories and poetry since she can remember. As a child, she also spent a lot of time drawing in her sketchbook. It followed her everywhere - on family holidays, to the dining table, or to the beach - her sketchbook was always there. When she’s not writing you can find her in her craft room making things from polymer clay or reading. Website: www.lisakalma.com Facebook: Lisa Kalma Writes Instagram: @lisakalmawrites Twitter: @lisakalmawrites Pinterest: @lisakalmawrites |
Jarm Del Boccio
THE HEART CHANGER (Ambassador Interntional, April 26, 2019) Jarm (‘J’ pronounced as a ‘Y’) finds her inspiration while traveling the globe, observing the quirky things that happen along the way as she checks off destinations on her bucket list. A former teacher and librarian, Jarm’s passion is to make history come alive for her readers. She believes with inspiration from the past, children can be the heroes of their own stories. Jarm is content with the journey God has placed her on, and lives with her husband, son and daughter in a tree-lined suburb of Chicago. Website: www.jarmdelboccio.com Facebook: Jarm DelBoccio Twitter: @JarmVee Instagram: @jarmveedb |
Rinda Beach
NEIL ARMSTRONG'S WIND TUNNEL DREAM (Beach House Publishing, May 2019) Rinda never planned to write. She was a second-grade teacher who read and told stories, till the night a bat visited her. She learned to write and edit, thanks to SCBWI, writing classes, and critique partners. Her website features a weekly blog and book reviews. Rinda substitute teaches to stay connected to today’s kids. She uses her knowledge and imagination to write stories for them. She started Beach House Publishing and will publish her first book about Neil Armstrong in time for the fiftieth anniversary of the moon landing. Website: www.rindabeach.com Facebook: rinda.beach Twitter: @BeachRinda Instagram: @rindajbeach |
Stacey Corrigan
THE PENCIL EATER (MacLaren-Cochrane Publishing, Aug 6, 2019) Stacey is a second-grade teacher in Saginaw, MI and author of the debut picture book THE PENCIL EATER. She grew up in Elkton, MI and began writing for a local newspaper in high school. Stacey graduated from Michigan State University with a BA in Elementary Education and from Saginaw Valley State University with an MA in Early Childhood Education. Stacey lives in Michigan with her husband, two sons, and an adorable beagle named Sadie. Stacey is a member of SCBWI, Julie Hedlund’s 12 X 12 Picture Book Challenge, and several critique groups. Stacey is represented by Rebecca Angus of Golden Wheat Literary. Website: https://staceycorrigan.weebly.com Facebook: Stacey Corrigan Books Twitter: @StaceyCorrigan3 |
Annette Schottenfeld
OBI'S MUD BATH (Clear Fork Publishing/Spork Imprint, TBD 2019) Annette Schottenfeld grew up with a book in her hands and a world of endless possibilities in her heart. She is passionate about writing for children, hip-hop dance and environmental issues, believing all have the power to change lives. An expert baker, Annette created the secret recipe for the decadent Uglie Muffin. A registered dietitian, she has written about food, nutrition and fitness. Annette lives in New York with her husband, two kids and dog, Rupert, who at times thinks he’s a little rhino. Her picture book debut, OBI’S MUD BATH, is based on an actual event in Africa and will launch in 2019. Website: www.AnnetteSchottenfeld.com Twitter: @nettschott Facebook: Annette Schottenfeld - Author |
Malayna Evans
JAGGER JONES AND THE MUMMY'S ANKH (Month9Books, April 30, 2019) Years after Malayna Evans earned her Ph.D. in Egyptology from the University of Chicago, her nine-year-old son suggested she write a story about a kid, who looked like him, lost in ancient Egypt. Excited by the idea of sharing her passion for ancient history with middle graders and pursuing her dream of becoming a published author, she jumped into the project. Her debut novel, JAGGER JONES & THE MUMMY’S ANKH, will be released in April of 2019. A single mom with two kids and a rescue dog, Malayna lives in Oak Park, Il. Website: http://malaynaevans.com/ Twitter: @Malayna Instagram: @malaynaevans |
Sarah Hoppe
WHO WILL? WILL YOU? (Blue Whale Press, Spring/Summer 2019) Sarah Hoppe is a born and bred Minnesotan, an author and photographer who loves to write weird stories and be outside with nature. When she’s not writing, you can find her traipsing through the woods taking photos, crafting with copious amounts of hot glue or snuggled on the couch with her family. Sarah lives in Rochester, MN with her husband, two boys and two dogs. WHO WILL? WILL YOU? is her debut book. She is a member of SCBWI and Julie Hedlund’s 12x12 Picture Book Challenge. Website: www.sarahhoppe.com Twitter: @Sarahlhoppe |
Kat Harrison
SURGERY ON SUNDAY (Warren Publishing, Fall 2019) Kat Harrison lives for headbands, warm mugs, and the poems of Shel Silverstein. She began her career as a magazine editor. Her writing has since appeared in lifestyle publications like Real Simple and New York Family, and digital outlets such as Yahoo and MSN. She frequently contributes to The Mighty, an online health community that recently named her one of 2018's top chronic illness advocates. To date, she’s recovered from 14 surgeries and lives with chronic, daily migraine and a tongue-twisting disability called oscillopsia. She is a proud member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and lives in Michigan with her two favorite guys (one human, one canine). Website: www.katwritesforyou.com Twitter: @xokatharrison Facebook: xokatharrison Instagram: @xokat |
Susan Edwards Richmond
BIRD COUNT (Peachtree Publishing Company, Inc., October 1, 2019) At age four, Susan Edwards Richmond traveled from California to upstate New York, where exploring the woodlands, mountains, and rivers fostered a lifelong connection to nature. After teaching and developing curricula for many audiences, she now has her dream job—working at a nature-based preschool on a wildlife sanctuary! For her debut picture book, Bird Count, Susan was delighted to be paired with Stephanie Fizer Coleman, an illustrator who shares her passion for birds. A published poet and member of an SCBWI critique group she adores, Susan lives with her husband just west of Boston and has two adult daughters. Website: www.susanedwardsrichmond.com Twitter: @SusanEdRichmond Facebook: Susan Edwards Richmond |