Art for the ants. Art for the birds, cats and raccoons. Art to make them laugh, make them think, make them feel at home. Animal-friendly street art is popping up all over the city, but who is creating these masterpieces? There is no explanation, only a name: Anonymouse. Think Banksy. . .but a mouse! I … Continue reading ANONYMOUSE: Coming in 2021
Category: Writing
Why Do So Few Characters Get Their Periods in Middle Grade Fiction?
Today is Menstrual Hygiene Day, a day dedicated to busting taboos and myths around periods. Fifty percent of the population gets a period, and yet people are still uncomfortable talking about it. There are lots of great non-fiction books for kids that cover puberty, but what about fiction? Most girls get their periods between 10-15 … Continue reading Why Do So Few Characters Get Their Periods in Middle Grade Fiction?
Upcoming Writing Workshop
On Sunday, June 14th, I'll be giving an insider's tour of the publishing industry for writers, with an emphasis on marketing, social media and connecting with readers. I'll be sharing things I wish I knew when I started out as a writer, drawing on my experience as a bookseller, publicist, marketing director and of course, as … Continue reading Upcoming Writing Workshop
I’m Holding a Virtual Writing Workshop for Kids & Teens
This Thursday, April 12th at noon EST I will be taking over Milton Public Library's Instagram live to hold a virtual writing workshop for kids & teens. I'll share some tips, tricks, and exercises, so make sure your kids have a pen and paper handy! Learn about my process and find out the stories and inspiration … Continue reading I’m Holding a Virtual Writing Workshop for Kids & Teens
6 Picture Books Featuring Teddy Bears (and Rabbits)
We are one week away from the release of my new picture book TEDDY BEAR OF THE YEAR, illustrated by Sydney Hanson. All of my books are a nod to something I love, and I've always had a soft spot for the softest of toys, bear or otherwise. Here are some of my favourite teddy … Continue reading 6 Picture Books Featuring Teddy Bears (and Rabbits)
MYRCA News!
I was very excited to learn that THE WINNOWING is the 2019 MYRCA Northern Lights Honour Book! I had the pleasure of visiting Manitoba during last year's Canadian Children's Book Week and I had the opportunity to meet with many dedicated readers and aspiring writers. I learned firsthand how passionate young Manitobans are about reading, … Continue reading MYRCA News!
Summer 2018 Events
It's been a busy spring and I'm still riding high off The Winnowing winning the 2018 Red Maple Award! What a day that was! I met so many readers at The Festival of Trees celebrations in Toronto, Durham, Peel, and Niagara. Thank you to everyone who told me their thoughts about The Winnowing and gave … Continue reading Summer 2018 Events
McNally Robinson Writing Contest for Kids
One of the ways I started honing my writing skills was by entering contests, and so I am thrilled to be the guest judge of the McNally Robinson kids' writing contest, open to grade 5 & 6 students in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. This year the theme is "I have always wanted to...." go into space, … Continue reading McNally Robinson Writing Contest for Kids
2017: The Year in Review
What a year it’s been! I feel so fortunate to have had such amazing experiences. In March, I had the pleasure of being part of the Rainforest of Reading, an annual children’s book festival in Grenada, Saint Lucia, Montserrat and Nevis run by OneWorld Schoolhouse Foundation. The festival is the largest literacy initiative undertaken in … Continue reading 2017: The Year in Review
Giveaway: The Winnowing Book Club Kit
The only thing better than reading books is talking about books! That's why I'm a big fan of lit circles, book clubs, and reading groups. I'm putting together a Winnowing themed book club kit including: One copy of The Winnowing The Winnowing stickers The Winnowing bookmarks Official The Winnowing Discussion Guide Discussion Fuel (aka candy) … Continue reading Giveaway: The Winnowing Book Club Kit
