Written by the talented Kevin Johnson and brought to life with illustrations by the incomparable Kitt Thomas, "Cape" is a story that hits close to home. It speaks to the depth of our hearts and the strength we find in the midst of loss. In "Cape," we meet a young child grappling with the profound sorrow of losing a cherished loved one. Clutching onto his superhero cape, he seeks solace from the onslaught of memories and emotions that threaten to overwhelm him. But as we all know, memories don't play fair. They persist no matter how much you resist. Our young hero tries to block and push them away, but deep down, he knows he can't run forever. And then something shifts. He remembers the laughter, smiles, and love surrounding him. Suddenly, that cape becomes more than just a piece of fabric—it becomes his lifeline, his source of strength as he navigates the bittersweet terrain of grief. Johnson's distinct lyrical language and Thomas's signature style transform Cape into a testament to the human spirit, a reminder that even superheroes hurt too. CAPE Makes Me Think About: Second Line Traditions: In New Orleans, funerals are a bit different. They typically start with the "first line" as mourners make a slow procession through the street to the burial ground as a traditional brass band plays a sad "dirge." But the "second line" is a community parade! Mourners sing and dance through the street while the band plays upbeat, joyous tunes to celebrate the good memories the deceased left behind. To Serve the Living-Funeral Directors and the African American Way of Death: Published in 2010 by Harvard Press, Suzanne E. Smith explores the intersectional relationship between black funeral directors and black freedom movements in the United States. This book is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and dignity exemplified in rituals of remembrance, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding and honoring diverse cultural perspectives on death and mourning. My Maternal Grandmother: Jesse Faye Rigsby, was the first funeral I remember attending as a child. She died after a long battle with illness. The church was crowded, people were crying, and I was too young to process the grief fully. A cape probably would have been helpful. A quote from American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson: "It is not the length of life, but the depth of life." Brentom Jackson is an award winning poet/writer, actor and psychotherapist in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With poetic voice, theatrical flair, and socio-emotional expertise Brentom tells stories that explore the universal lessons within Black-American history and heritage. His debut picture book Elijah's Easter Suit with Doubleday/Penguin Random House is available now. Follow him on all social media @brentomjackson. www.brentomjackson.com
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by Melissa Stoller Where I live, we just moved the clocks forward an hour for Daylight Savings Time. That means we “lost” an hour on Sunday morning. I started thinking about the notion of “time” and how we can incorporate time into ideas this March. Here are a few prompts to try: 1. Write a story about the passage of time. Maybe it’s a story using sunrise to sunset as a structure. Or perhaps it’s using the days of the week or months of the year. Or even the seasons. Show the reader how time has passed. 2. Think of a story about “losing time.” It could be about bedtime or waking up in the morning. Or maybe a character simply loses track of time. Be creative and see where the idea takes you! 3. Write a story that includes a watch or clock as a central part of the idea. Was the watch a present? Does the clock stop chiming? Did someone forget to set the clock for Daylight Savings Time? 4. Write about someone who is either always late or always on time. Describe their character traits. What obstacles might they face? 5. Set a timer for 10 minutes and do some free writing. Don’t edit yourself at all. Just let the words flow and see where a timed writing sprint will take you. Enjoy your writing time this month. Let me know in the comments about how you used these prompts to generate ideas. MELISSA’S BIO:
Melissa Stoller writes to bring connection, joy, and a bit of magic to her readers. Her newest picture book, Hazel and Mabel: Two Hearts Apart, illustrated by Anita Bagdi, releases from Gnome Road Publishing in Fall 2025. Melissa is also the author of the chapter book series The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection - Return to Coney Island, and the picture books Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush; Ready, Set, GOrilla!; Sadie’s Shabbat Stories; Planting Friendship: Peace, Salaam, Shalom; and Building Bridges: Peace, Salaam, Shalom (co-written). Melissa is a Blogger for the Children’s Book Academy, a Rate Your Story Judge, a volunteer with SCBWI/MetroNY, a Book Meshuggenahs member, a Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Trustee, and a past school and Synagogue Trustee. She also interviews authors and offers resources on her blog. In other chapters of her life, Melissa has worked as a lawyer, legal writing instructor, freelance writer/editor, and early childhood educator. She lives in New York City with her family, and enjoys theatre, museums, and Central Park walks. CONNECT WITH MELISSA: https://www.MelissaStoller.com https://www.MelissaStoller.com/blog http://www.facebook.com/MelissaStoller www.twitter.com/melissastoller www.instagram.com/Melissa_Stoller www.pinterest.com/melissa_Stoller February is a month of reflection and celebration when we honor the rich tapestry of Black history and the remarkable individuals who have shaped it. In the realm of children's literature, Black authors and illustrators have made profound contributions, crafting stories that inspire, educate, and ignite the imagination. As we commemorate Black History Month, let us pay tribute to four remarkable creators whose work continues to resonate with readers of all ages.
Virginia Hamilton (1934-2002): Virginia Hamilton was a literary luminary whose boundless imagination and lyrical prose captivated generations of readers. Hailing from Yellow Springs, Ohio, Hamilton drew upon her African American and Native-American heritage to create stories that resonated with authenticity and depth. Her groundbreaking novel, "M.C. Higgins, the Great," earned her the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1975, making her the first Black author to receive this honor. Hamilton's body of work encompassed diverse genres, from folklore and fantasy to historical fiction, each imbued with her trademark warmth and insight. Through her storytelling, Hamilton illuminated the richness of Black experiences and inspired countless aspiring writers to follow in her footsteps. Leo and Diane Dillon (Leo: 1933-2012, Diane: 1933-2015): Leo and Diane Dillon were a dynamic husband-and-wife team who left an indelible mark on the world of children's literature through their stunning illustrations. Their collaboration spans over five decades and encompassed various genres, from folklore and mythology to contemporary and science fiction. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, the Dillons shared a passion for art and storytelling from an early age. They were pioneers in the field of multicultural children's books, bringing diverse characters and cultures to life with sensitivity and nuance. Their illustrations adorned numerous award-winning books, including "Ashanti to Zulu: African Traditions," which earned them the prestigious Caldecott Medal in 1977. The Dillons' distinctive artistic style, characterized by intricate detail and vibrant colors, captivated readers of all ages and inspires aspiring illustrators worldwide. Eloise Greenfield (1929-2021): Eloise Greenfield was a trailblazing author whose works celebrated the beauty, strength, and resilience of the African American experience. Born in Parmele, North Carolina, Greenfield began her writing career as a poet before transitioning to children's literature. Her books, including "Honey, I Love," "Childtimes: A Three-Generation Memoir," and "Night on Neighborhood Street," are beloved for their lyrical prose, relatable characters, and authentic portrayals of everyday life in Black communities. Greenfield's storytelling transcends cultural boundaries, offering universal themes of love, family, and self-discovery that resonate with readers of all backgrounds. Greenfield's impact on children's literature is immeasurable, inspiring generations of young readers to see themselves reflected in the pages of books and embrace their unique stories with pride and joy. In honoring the legacies of Virginia Hamilton, Leo & Diane Dillon, and Eloise Greenfield, we not only celebrate their individual accomplishments but also recognize the collective impact of Black storytellers on children's literature. Their words resonate with readers of all backgrounds, reminding us of the importance of diverse voices in shaping our understanding of the world. As we commemorate Black History Month, let us recommit ourselves to amplifying and championing diverse narratives that reflect the beauty and complexity of the human experience. Brentom Jackson is an award winning poet/writer, actor and psychotherapist in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With poetic voice, theatrical flair, and socio-emotional expertise Brentom tells stories that explore the universal lessons within Black-American history and heritage. His debut picture book Elijah's Easter Suit with Doubleday/Penguin Random House is available wherever books are sold. Follow him on all social media @brentomjackson. www.brentomjackson.com By Melissa Stoller February is a wonderful time to reflect on friendship and love. Valentine’s Day falls squarely in the middle of the month, perhaps bringing cards, candies, flowers, and special sentiments. This holiday can help you generate heartfelt ideas. Canva Image Here are a few prompts you can use for inspiration this season. 1) Check out cards at a card shop. Or write you own greetings. Notice themes that resonate with you. Can you imagine characters delivering any of the messages? Maybe the cards will spark a first line or story plot. 2) View online images of candies and flowers. Draw a scene that includes some of your favorite images. You can use stick figures! You can also add in some words. Then write a scene incorporating your artwork, words, and ideas. 3) Think about friends from your childhood. Write down three traits that you liked about each friend. Next, do the same with current friends. Also, write down three places where you visited with these friends. And finally, jot down three situations that included these friends. Mix and match the categories and see if you come up with a story plot. I hope these prompts help you generate and develop ideas and stories filled with heart this month. Let me know in the comments! MELISSA’S BIO: Melissa Stoller writes to bring connection, joy, and a bit of magic to her readers. Her newest picture book, Hazel and Mabel: Two Hearts Apart, illustrated by Anita Bagdi, releases from Gnome Road Publishing in Fall 2025. Melissa is also the author of the chapter book series The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection - Return to Coney Island, and the picture books Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush; Ready, Set, GOrilla!; Sadie’s Shabbat Stories; Planting Friendship: Peace, Salaam, Shalom; and Building Bridges: Peace, Salaam, Shalom (co-written). Melissa is a Blogger for the Children’s Book Academy, a Rate Your Story Judge, a volunteer with SCBWI/MetroNY, a Book Meshuggenahs member, a Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Trustee, and a past school and Synagogue Trustee. She also interviews authors and offers resources on her blog. In other chapters of her life, Melissa has worked as a lawyer, legal writing instructor, freelance writer/editor, and early childhood educator. She lives in New York City with her family, and enjoys theatre, museums, and Central Park walks. Melissa is represented by The Seymour Agency. CONNECT WITH MELISSA: https://www.MelissaStoller.com https://www.MelissaStoller.com/blog http://www.facebook.com/MelissaStoller www.twitter.com/melissastoller www.instagram.com/Melissa_Stoller www.pinterest.com/melissa_Stoller As we embrace the new year, it's the perfect time for picture book writers to reflect on their writing journey and set meaningful resolutions. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting your picture book adventure, the beginning of the year offers everyone a fresh canvas to explore new ideas and hone your craft. However, the task of resolutions can prove daunting. Here are a few suggestions to get you started. Set Clear Writing Goals Begin the year by establishing clear and achievable writing goals. Consider setting targets for the number of manuscripts you aim to complete, submission goals, or even specific aspects of your writing style that you want to improve. Having concrete goals will provide direction and motivation for your writing journey. Create a Writing Schedule Develop a consistent writing schedule that fits into your daily routine. Whether dedicating a specific time each day or designating certain days of the week for writing, having a routine helps cultivate discipline. Consistency is critical; a well-established writing schedule can significantly contribute to productivity. Join Writing Communities Connect with fellow picture book writers through online forums, social media groups, or local writing communities. Sharing experiences, seeking advice, and participating in discussions can provide valuable insights and encouragement. Building a supportive network can be instrumental in navigating the challenges and celebrating the successes of your writing journey. Explore New Themes and Perspectives Challenge yourself to explore new themes and perspectives in your writing. Step outside your comfort zone and experiment with different genres or storytelling techniques. This exploration can spark creativity and add depth to your picture book repertoire. So, fellow picture book conjurers, let's toast to a year of penning tales that sparkle with wonder, characters that make us laugh and cry, and endings that leave us longing for more. May your writing desk be a portal to infinite possibilities, and may the ink in your pen be infused with the enchantment of storytelling. Brentom Jackson is an award winning poet/writer, actor and psychotherapist in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With poetic voice, theatrical flair, and socio-emotional expertise Brentom tells stories that explore the universal lessons within Black-American history and heritage. His debut picture book Elijah's Easter Suit with Doubleday/Penguin Random House is available for pre-order now. Follow him on all social media @brentomjackson. www.brentomjackson.com |
We are so excited to be mixing things up at CBA, beginning with some delicious additions to the Blogfish. Meet our awesome bloggers!!
Here's our lineup: 1st Mondays begin with awesome Aussie debut author and former student Amanda Lieber who will be focusing on Aussie kidlit. 2nd Mondays will feature super smart Melissa Stoller whose career is taking off with several new books. 3rd Mondays will feature our new blogger coming soon. 4th Mondays features new blogger, the fabulous Brentom Jackson, who has a beautiful approach to blogging. And 5th Mondays we'll be taking a break Archives
March 2024
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