Category: What’s New
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Open Book Foundation at Seaton
What a privilege to be chosen by An Open Book Foundation to present two writing workshops to fourth and fifth graders at Seaton Elementary School in Washington DC. The minute I walked into the school, I loved the atmosphere. Great teacher and students! First I introduced the kids to my book Please Write in this…
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Favorite Kid Quote
Funniest kid quote. Today, after my get-kids-excited-about-writing assembly at Jones Lane Elementary School in Darnestown, MD, a girl rushed up to me with a huge smile. Her eyes were sparkling, and she was breathless with excitement. I thought she’d say how much she enjoyed my presentation or tell me which of my books were her…
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Farmdale ES (PA) and Aaron’s Books
I loved meeting all the students and staff at Farmdale Elementary School (PA). They’re so lucky to have media specialist Cathy Koenig, a gem of a pro who brings such passion to her work. My biggest thrill was seeing a whole wall full of “What am I?” poems inspired by my book written by Mr.…
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Red Rock Elementary School Readers and Writers Rock!
After Skyping with Red Rock Elementary School (MN), I received the most amazing packet of thank you cards. Students wrote cards, drew pictures, and and also made lists of things that they enjoy in the hopes of inspiring me to write more books. Writing is hard work, but messages of encouragement and support from young…
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Get Happy Luna Ukulele Giveaway
To celebrate the release of Get Happy, my novel about a uke-loving songwriter, Luna is giving away a free Pearl ukulele. No purchase necessary to enter.
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What’s Wrong with Silly Books?
My article on “The Sin of Silliness” appeared in E.Kristin Anderson’s blog. You can also download it here.
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Adeline’s Book
No greater joy than to have a child eager to share her or his latest book! Young Adeline wrote this story and included everything–I mean everything–the copyright info, the table of contents, chapter titles, and more. Go, Adeline!
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Good Crooks Three is Coming
What would you do if your parents were crooks and you had a secret desire to be…good? Coming this February, look for the launch of a new series by Mary Amato and illustrated by Ward Jenkins. Books 1 and 2 will be available in all formats, humor for ages 7-10.
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Revision can be fun!
Check out this video made by a school after one of my interactive presentations about revision. After creating a rough draft, I asked students to revise for word choice, dialogue, details, plot, character development, setting, etc. The improvisation was so funny and full of great examples of living writing.