2017 Authors & Illustrators

Below are listed the distinguished authors and illustrators who honored us with their participation in 2017.

AUTHOR & FEATURED BOOK	BOOK DESCRIPTION	BIOGRAPHY & HONORS
Sarah Albee sarahalbeebooks.com	From ancient times to today, people have been poisoning one another. Get ready to find out the down-and-dirty details about some of the deadliest substances on Earth -- who created them, who used them, and who tried to protect victims from these hidden weapons. Part history, part chemistry, part whodunit, POISON shines a ghoulish light on the deadly intersection of human nature...and Mother Nature.	Sarah Albee writes non-fiction books for kids in grades 1-9. Her latest book is POISON: Deadly Deeds, Perilous Professions and Murderous Medicines. Recent titles include Bugged: How Insects Changed History and Why'd They Wear That? Forthcoming books: George Washington, First President (December 2017) and Dog Days of History (January 2018.)
Kathleen Blasi kmblasi.com	Gaetana Curatolo takes a mental journey back to 1912 when, as an 8-year old girl in a small Italian village, she dreams of moving to America. Travel back in time and witness Gaetana's tumultuous coming of age as she prepares for a new life and a new identity. Based on a true story.	Kathleen Blasi writes books for young readers of all ages, from picture books to young adult novels. Her debut middle-grade novel, A Name of Honor, portrays a young girl's journey to America in 1920. In 2015, Kathleen and her Rochester Children's Book Festival Co-Director received the New York State Reading Association Literacy Advocate Award.
Suzanne Bloom suzannebloom.com	When animals in jammies get ready for bed, chances are they do what you do. From tip-toeing to tooth brushing, from stories and hugs to whispering goodnight, this tale is told with enough alliteration to keep the reader awake and enough yawns to lull the listener to sleep.	Born in Portland, OR, raised in Queens, NY, living in upstate NY and traveling to schools all over the USA. Suzanne Bloom graduated from Cooper Union, made wooden toys for over a decade and has written children's books for nearly 30 years.
John J. Bonk jjbonk.com	While their father honeymoons with his new wife, Lexi McGill and her younger brother Kevin are all set to spend the summer in NYC with their wacky actress aunt. But when Lexi overhears a plot to steal Cleopatra's famous jewels from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, her low-key plans turn into high-stakes adventure. Joining forces with a journalist, the kids ditch day camp to track down the thieves and rake in the reward money.	John J. Bonk is a former musical comedy performer who has hung up his tap shoes and devotes his time these days to "performing on the page." His middle-grade novels have received starred reviews in multiple publications and Madhattan Mystery has also been published in German. A native of Chicago, John graduated with a degree in theater from Loyola University there. He now lives in midtown Manhattan with a 9/10ths view of the Empire State Building.
Laurie Calkhoven lauriecalkhoven.com	Pirouette across the stage and get to know Misty Copeland - the first African-American woman to become a principal ballerina with the American Ballet Theater - in this fascinating biography, part of a new series about "people you should meet." Misty Copeland had many obstacles to overcome to become a dancer. With a lot of hard work, dedication and exceptional talent, she has become one of the most well-known dancers in America.	Laurie Calkhoven has always loved books and reading. When she got her first library card and was set free among the picture books, she wanted to be a librarian. Later, she learned that there were actual people who created these wonderful books on the shelves, and she decided to be one of them. Laurie writes for American Girls's History's Mysteries series as well as historical action/adventure novels for her own Boys of Wartime series. She lives in NYC.
Frank Cammuso cammuso.com	Salem Hyde just isn't like other kids. For one thing, she's stubborn, independent and impulsive. For another, she's a witch. Salem acts first and thinks later -- which means most of her thinking involves coming up with excuses! Good thing she's been assigned an animal companion, Lord Percival J. Whamsford III. Salem doesn't like listening to his long-winded explanations as to why she shouldn't do something... like enter the class spelling bee.	Frank Cammuso is the former award-winning political columnist for the Post-Standard newspaper in Syracuse, NY. His cartoons were reprinted in the NY Times, Washington Post, USA Today and Newsweek. He now teaches Comics and Sequential Illustration at Syracuse University. Frank is the author/illustrator of two graphic novel series and two comics for Toon-Books, and of fiction and satire that has appeared in the New York Times, the New Yorker and on NPR.
Alyssa Satin Capucilli alyssacapucilli.com	A love song from a mother to her child, described by Booklist as a "tender paean."	Alyssa Satin Capucilli is the author of Biscuit, the popular bestseller used to launch the My First I Can Read series from HarperCollins. With over 75 titles in the series and 23 million books in print, Biscuit has been deemed a modern classic and has been translated into numerous languages. Ms. Capucilli is the recipient of numberous awards and she has contributed to many publications. She lectures frequently at the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project.
Crissa-Jean Chappell crissajeanchappell.com	Every year, Lucy waits eagerly for the arrival of the "snowbirds," the Old Order Amish who come into Florida on buses from the north, bringing Lucy's best friend Alice. At sixteen, Alice is in the middle of "Rumspringa," a season in which Amish teens try out forbidden temptations in order to get them out of their system. Lucy is part of a different sect, in which teens aren't allowed such bold experimentation. Then one night, after just such a party, Alice vanishes.	Crissa-Jean Chappell was born in Miami and now lives in Brooklyn, NY. Her debut YA novel, Total Constant Order, is a NY Public Library Book for the Teen Age and a VOYA Perfect Ten. Her second novel, NARC, is currently optioned for film, and her third, More Than Good Enough, is a Florida Book Awards medalist. Crissa-Jean holds both an MFA and a PhD from the University of Miami and has taught creative writing and cinema studies for over ten years.
Sheela Chari sheelachari.com	Twelve-year old neighbors Myla and Peter search for a missing brother and a set of missing diamonds connected to his disappearance.	Sheela Chari is the author of Finding Mighty, a Junior Library Guild selection, and Vanished, an Edgar Award nominee for best juvenile mystery, an Al Roker book pick on the Today Show and an APALA Children's Literature Honor Book. She has an MFA in Fiction from New York University and teaches writing at Mercy College. Sheela lives in New York with her family.
Lucy Ruth Cummins lucyruthcummins.squarespace.com	A hungry lion is all set to enjoy an exciting day with his other animal pals. But all of a sudden, his friends start disappearing at an alarming rate! Is someone stealing the hungry lion's friends, or is the culprit…a little closer to home?	Lucy Ruth Cummins made her author-illustrator debut in 2016 with her picture book "A Hungry Lion, or A Dwindling Assortment of Animals." Her award-winning works have received starred reviews in multiple journals. Lucy is the youngest of six children. She was born in Canada (and lived in an actual log cabin!), was raised in upstate NY and currently lives with her little family in Brooklyn, NY. Her favorite food is the french fry.
Jacky Davis and David Soman ladybuggirl.com	When Lulu and Grandpa visit the museum, Lulu wants to see it all! But there is so much to see. Even Ladybug Girl may never see it all. Then Grandpa shows her something extra-special: the butterfly room! Inside, Lulu slows down, looks and listens. When a shining blue butterfly lands on her finger, Lulu understands that even if she can't learn everything in one day, she can learn so much from each moment, if only she takes the time to look around.	Jacky Davis and David Soman are the husband-and-wife creative team behind the New York Times-bestselling Ladybug Girl series. They live in Ulster County, NY with their two children.
Barbara Dee barbaradeebooks.com	When twelve-year old Norah Levy returns to school after two years off for cancer treatment, she finds that returning to "normal" life is trickier than she expected. Can her love of fantasy characters and Greek mythology help her find a way to share her experience with friends and classmates?	Barbara Dee is the author of eight middle-grade novels. Aladdin/Simon & Schuster published two of them this year: Star-Crossed (March) and Halfway Normal, which will launch at the Warwick Children's Book Festival! It has already earned starred reviews from Kirkus Reviews and School Library Journal, and is also a Junior Library Guild selection. Barbara is one of the founders and directors of the Chappaqua Children's Book Festival. A former English teacher, she lives with her family in Westchester County, NY.
Ame Dyckman amedyckman.com	THINK you want a unicorn? So does the boy in this book! But he soon finds out that unicorns make the WORST pets. They shed mountains of sparkles. They poke holes in your ceiling. And you REALLY don't want to eat those cupcakes! But that's not even the biggest, top secret, nobody-knows-about-it problem with having a unicorn. You DON'T want a unicorn, but you DO want to laugh seeing all the reasons why not!	Ame Dyckman reads and writes picture books and board books when she SHOULD be sleeping. She's the award-winning, New York Times- bestselling author of Wolfie the Bunny, Boy + Bot, Tea Party Rules, Horrible Bear! And her new book with comic strip star Liz Climo - You Don't Want a Unicorn! Ame lives in New Jersey with her family, crazy cat, and the characters from her books.
Beth Ferry bethferry.com	A small blue whale sits in a silver sea, wishing, wanting and waiting for a friend. As he explores what friendship sounds like, tastes like, looks like and feels like, he discovers exactly what friendship means.	Beth Ferry reads and writes by the beach in New Jersey where she keeps one eye out for sharks and the other for pirates, and always takes inspiration from the sea, salt and sand. Her most recent picture book is A Small Blue Whale.
Annabelle Fisher annabellefisher.com	Fifth grader Pixie Piper has always known that she was a little different. She has a wild mop of hair that won't stay put, her best friend is a boy, and to top it all off, she's constantly coming up with rhymes and poems that just seem to pop out of her. Then, when Pixie thinks it can't get any worse, she finds out that she actually is different: she's a descendant of Mother Goose! A lively blend of magic, humor, suspense and literary allusions with a lively cast and plenty of verse.	Annabelle Fisher is the author of The Secret Destiny of Pixie Piper, which reviewers have called "entertaining," "fresh," "creative" and "pretty darn charming." She's taught courses in the Graduate Creative Writing department of Manhattanville College, as well as writing workshops for children, teens and adults. She lives in Westchester County, NY with her husband and their oversized dog, not too far from where the Headless Horseman roams at night.
Julie Fogliano	In this enthusiastic celebration of all things BIRTHDAY, acclaimed author Julie Fogliano and award-winning illustrator Christian Robinson bring you the perfect birthday book! Join our excited narrator as she lists all the things that will make her birthday the BEST birthday.	Julie Fogliano is the New York Times-bestselling author of And Then It's Spring (recipient of the 2013 Exra Jack Keats Award), If You Want to See A Whale, Old Dog Baby Baby and the poetry collection When Green Becomes Tomatoes. Her books have been translated into more than ten languages. Julie lives in the Hudson Valley with her family. When not folding laundry or wondering what to make for dinner, she is staring out the window waiting for a book idea to fly by.
Gilbert Ford gilbertford.com	The Marvelous Thing That Came From a Spring is a non-fiction picture book about the invention of the classic, timeless, ever-popular children's toy, the Slinky. The book is illustrated in cut-out paper dioramas and found objects.	Gilbert Ford grew up in a family of professional photographers in Jackson, Mississippi, and moved to New York to attend Pratt Institute. After graduating, he worked as a designer and illustrator for a giftware company before setting out on his own in 2007. In 2015 he received his MFA in writing for children and young adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. He currently lives and works in Brooklyn, NY.
Alison Ashley Formento alisonashleyformento.com	Five tails, or rather, tales of furry and fascinating creatures are featured in this hilarious collection of animal stories: Elu, an alien, is missing and its young owner enlists a robot to help search. A dog named Doug runs wild while trying to find his best way to fit in. Haily, a ballerina bunny, discovers a new dance. A leaping lemur surprises Leon at school. Super Cat must solve the mystery of a family pet and face the evil feline Fluffy to save the day.	Alison Ashley Formento is the author of the nature picture book series "These Things Count!" and a young adult novel, Twigs. She has written for national publications including the New York Times, the Writer and Parenting and loves visiting schools and libraries. Her books have been on the Pennsylvania and Arizona state reading lists; have earned a Paterson Poetry Prize and the California Libraries Environmental Award for Sustainable Youth Literature. Alison donates a portion of book proceeds to AmericanForests.org.
Nancy Furstinger nancyfurstinger.com	Unstoppable features an assortment of bionic animals from around the world, all of whom make their way around with the help of prosthetics, braces, orthotics and wheelchairs. While reading these stories of perseverance and hope, readers will meet the caretakers, prosthetists, vets and loving families who help make possible the recovery of these remarkable animals, as well as glimpse the technologies helping to improve these animals' lives.	Nancy Furstinger has been speaking up for animals since she learned to talk, and she hasn't shut up yet. She is the author of nearly 100 books, including many on her favorite topic: animals! She has a menagerie of rescued pooches and house rabbits. Learn more about her dual passions - animals and writing - on her website.
Margaret Gurevich margiewrites.com	16-year old Chloe Montgomery has always loved everything to do with fashion. Clothes, accessories, designing -- she knows it all. And when she finds out that TeenDesign Diva, a new reality series for aspiring teenage designers, is holding auditions in her town, she's desperate to win a spot on the show. She knows this is her chance to finally get her designs noticed. But before Chloe can realize her dreams, she has to survive the competition.	Margaret Gurevich is the author of Capstone's Chloe by Design series, which is billed as a Project Runway for kids. She has also written for National Geographic Kids, Sports Illustrated Kids and is at work on books for Penguin's Who Was series.
K.L. Going klgoing.com	Bumpety, Dunkety, Thumpety-Thump is a cozy, rollicking book for young readers that features words that are fun on the tongue.	K.L. Going began her career working at one of the oldest literary agencies in NYC. In addition to her middle grade and young adult novels, which have won multiple awards and been translated into multiple languages, she has also written short stories for several anthologies and has multiple picture books under contract. Her novel Fat Kid Rules the World is now an independent film. K.L. lives in Sullivan County, NY where she writes and critiques manuscripts. She's also mom to the world's cutest little boy.
Susanna Leonard Hill susannahill.com	When your lion needs a bath, you have to be pretty sneaky! After all, have you ever met a cat who likes water? This hilarious and charming board book highlights the many ways to get your lion into that tub. But be careful…or you just might end up in the bath, too!	Susanna Leonard Hill is the award-winning author of more than a dozen books for children. She teaches an online picture book writing class, offers picture book critiques and does frequent school and library visits. She lives in New York's Mid-Hudson Valley with her husband, children and two rescue dogs. She loves chocolate, dogs and all things Kid Lit. Visit her on her blog at susannahill.com/blog.
Susan Hood susanhoodbooks.com.	Double Take is a topsy-turvy fun-house journey into the concept of opposites that takes the idea to the next level -- with detours into relative terms and points of view (and a dollop of yin and yang for good measure.)	Susan Hood has written more than 200 books. Prior to becoming an author, Susan was a children's magazine editor at Scholastic and Instructor Magazines, a book editor at Sesame Workshop and the Children's Content Director of Nick, Jr. Magazine. Her works have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly and Booklist as well as won several prestigious awards.
Susie Jaramillo canticosworld.com	Little Skeletons/Esqueletos is based on the song Los Esquetos (Calaveras) Salen de la Tumba. It is a glow-in-the-dark, Day of the Dead counting extravaganza! The origin of the song is quite ambiguous and there are many interpretations of it throughout Latin America and Spain.	Susie Jaramillo is an artist, a brand-builder and a mom. She is the creator of Canticos, a baby brand inspired by Latino nursery rhymes featuring bilingual board books, apps, videos and more. Canticos books have garnered starred reviews from the likes of Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, Babble and many more.
Anna Kang and Christopher Weyant annakang.com christopherweyant.com	Two fuzzy friends go to an amusement park. They try to convince each other that there are much scarier things than the roller coaster. Hairy spiders! Aliens! Fried ants! They soon discover that sometimes being scared isn't as "scary" as they thought. With expressive illustrations and simple text, this giggle-inducing tale about being (not) scared features the endearing characters from Theodor Seuss Geisel Award winner You Are (Not) Small.	Husband-and-wife team Anna Kang and Christopher Weyant are the creators of the popular picture books You are (Not) Small and That's (Not) Mine and I Am (Not) Scared. You Are (Not) Small won the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award and was named a Notable Children's Book by the American Library Association. Anna and Christopher live in New Jersey with their two daughters and a guinea pig.
Leslie Kimmelman lesliekimmelman.net	The true story of a presidential hot dog picnic given in 1939 by Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt for the King and Queen of England -- who'd never before tasted hot dogs! It's a royally fun slice of history taking place on the eve of WWII.	Leslie Kimmelman is the author of dozens of popular children's books whose subjects range from a lively romp through Paris (Everybody Bonjours!) to a swashbuckling pirate Halloween (Trick Arrr Treat.) Ms. Kimmelman is a part-time editor at Sesame Workshop and lives in Westchester County, NY.
Daniel Kirk danielkirk.com	Anna Merz was an animal lover who started one of the world's first animal rescue sanctuaries, in Kenya, for rhinos. This book tells the story of how she saved a rhino named Samia and of the friendship between Anna and Samia as she raised the rhino from an orphan baby to an adult.	Daniel Kirk is the author and illustrator of over forty books for children, including his bestselling series of "Library Mouse" picture books. "Library Mouse" is a Booklist Editor's Choice book, and Education.com Essential Gift, has received starred reviews in Kirkus Reviews and been honored with multiple awards and commendations. His recent book, "Ten Things I Love About You" has also received a starred review from Kirkus.
Gayle C. Krause gayleckrause.com	With sparks of independence crackling in Colonial Philadelphia, three girls dress as boys and head to the river to put a perilous plan into action. But only two return. The third, a young milliner's assistant, is found drowned, with gold coins sewn into her hems, coded spy letters on her body and a journal implicating another apprentice in the treasonous plot...	Gayle C. Krause was born in Scranton, PA and being the oldest girl on the block, always led the younger kids in creative dramatics, wilderness expeditions and fossil hunting. Those early days led her to a career in teaching both preschoolers and young adults. Her books fall at both ends of the children's literature spectrum. Gayle lives in a cliffside house in the Poconos that overlooks NY, NJ and PA, where she can still find the occasional fossil.
Kevin Kurtz kevkurtz.com	Sharks and Dolphins uses simple prose and striking photographs to allow early readers to compare and contrast the many amazing features of sharks and dolphins.	Kevin Kurtz has loved books and nature since he was a kid growing up in upstate New York. As an adult, he has worked as an aquarium educator, at a science museum and in a marine biology lab. He has also worked as an educator at sea on research ships studying volcanoes in the South Pacific. Kevin writes books for kids introducing them to the wonders of science and nature, and his works have won multiple awards.
London Ladd londonladd.com	In 1959, the last team to integrate racially was the Boston Red Sox. But when they call Elijah "Pumpsie" Green up from the minor leagues, Bernard is overjoyed to see a black player on his beloved home team. And, when Pumpsie's first home game is scheduled, Bernard and his family head to Fenway Park.	London Ladd launched his career painting murals, illustrating magazine articles and album covers. His big break came when he was hired to illustrate the critically-acclaimed picture book March On! The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World (Scholastic) written by Christine King Farris, older sister of Martin Luther King, Jr. Since then, London has illustrated numerous children's books and various other projects. He lives and creates in Syracuse, NY.
Mylisa Larsen mylisalarsen.com	It's time for sleep, and this fun-to-read rhyming tale envisions the bedtime rituals from whales to otters, squirrels to gorillas. So, curl up, imagine your favorite animal and … zzzzzzzzzzz.	Mylisa Larsen has been telling stories for a long time. This has caused her to get gimlet-eyed looks from her parents, her siblings and later, from her own children when they felt that certain stories had been embellished beyond acceptable limits. She now writes children's books, where her talents for hyperbole are actually rewarded. Mylisa lives in the Finger Lakes region of New York.
Tara Lazar taralazar.com	6 has a problem. Everyone knows that 7 is always after him. Word on the street is that 7 ate 9. If that's true, 6's days are numbered. Lucky for him, Private I is on the case. But the facts just don't add up. It's odd. Will Private I put two and two together and solve the problem...or is 6 next in line to be subtracted?	Street magic performer. Hog-calling champion. Award-winning ice sculptor. These are all the things Tara Lazar has never been. Instead, she writes quirky, funny picture books featuring magical places. Tara runs a popular writing challenge called Storystorm, serves as a mentor for We Need Diverse Books and co-chairs the Rutgers University Council on Children's Literature conference. She lives in New Jersey with her family and 2,079 stuffed animals.
David Lubar davidlubar.com	The Weenies Story Collections have been called the "Twilight Zone for young readers." Each book contains assorted scary, funny or weird stories perfect for reading alone or aloud. In this new collection, you'll meet vampires, haunted houses, endangered werewolves and other dark horrors and hilarious escapades. The title story is about parents who ruin sporting events by shouting at coaches, umps and refs. Fear not - they get what they deserve.	David Lubar has written thirty five books for teens and young readers. His novels are on reading lists across the country, saving countless students from a close encounter with Madame Bovary. His YA coming-of-age novel, Character, Driven, has received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist and Kirkus Reviews. David lives in Pennsylvania with one awesome female and various annoying felines.
Lauren Magaziner laurenmagaziner.com	Pilfer Academy is the finest school for training young thieves, and troublemaking George should feel very lucky to have been kidnapped and brought there! His teachers are kooky, but where else could one learn the sneakerific skills needed to be a criminal mastermind? But everything is ruined when George comes to a shocking realization: he's just too nice to be a thief.	Lauren Magaziner is originally from New Hope, PA and writes humorous middle-grade novels. Her first book, The Only Thing Worse than Witches, was an Indie Next List Pick and both of her books have received numerous glowing reviews. Lauren now lives in Brooklyn, NY where she writes full-time.
Yona Zeldis McDonough yonazeldismcdonough.com	Marcel loves riding his bicycle, whether he's racing through the streets of his small town in France or making bread deliveries for his parents' bakery. But ever since Germany's occupation of France began two years ago, there are soldiers everywhere, interrupting Marcel's rides. When he learns that his friend's family is in danger, Marcel knows he can help - but it will involve a risky bicycle ride to pass along covert information.	Yona Zeldis McDonough is the author of 27 books for children, including several of the popular Who Was series. Her books have been honored by the Simon Wiesenthal Center and been named as finalists for several prestigious awards. Yona lives with her family in Brooklyn, NY.
Florence Minor minorart.com	Tickles the bunny feels left out when her brothers and sisters scamper off to play and she is not invited to come along. Instead, she snuggles under a tree and reads stories from her favorite book about bravery, resilience, agility and cunning. As the day comes to a close, she hears a cry for help and finds her siblings stuck in a log. Because of the tales she's read, Tickles knows how to rescue the others and saves the day. Reading helps Tickles do big things!	Florence and her husband Wendell Minor have been working together since they moved from NY to Connecticut in 1991. They love creating books that entertain, teach and inspire children. Florence manages all aspects of their busy studio, and authors some of the books that Wendell illustrates. She is currently working on several manuscripts featuring her favorite subject - animals! Visit her on Facebook and Twitter.
Wendell Minor minorart.com	Wendell Minor's elegant artwork and Charlotte Zolotow's simple, evocative prose bring a day at the beach vividly to life as a boy and his mother imagine what it would be like to spend a day at the seashore. Redesigned for its 25th anniversary, The Seashore Book invites a new generation to experience a perfect beach day.	Wendell Minor is nationally known for the artwork he has created for over 50 award-winning children's books. His works have been recognized by the ALA, Bank Street College, Booklist, the Boston Public Library and many more. Wendell's portrait of President Harry S. Truman for David McCullough's book cover is in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC.
Diana Murray dianamurray.com	Doris the bookasaurus thinks books are mega-dinotastic! They make her spiky tail wiggle and her imagination soar. Her boisterous little brothers, Max and T.J., do not agree. They want Doris to stop reading and play Chomp the Dragon and Stego Blocks…until Doris reads her pirate book aloud to them. Soon they're using their imaginations on an epic adventure to Sharktooth Bay!	Diana Murray grew up in New York City and still lives nearby with her family and a spiky bearded dragon who loves listening to stories, especially ones about dinosaurs. Diana is the author of many picture books, and her poems have appeared in magazines such as Highlights, High Five and Spider.
Matt Myklusch mattmyklusch.com	After breaking ties with the deadly Pirate King, Dean Seaborne thought he had left his life of spying and pirating behind. But when the merciless thief Captain Skinner threatens Dean's allies, Dean agrees to one last job helping to rob a sea-based resort for the riches of nobles. But the moment Dean reaches the resort, the plan changes. As his enemies multiply, above and below the waves, Dean finds himself in over his head as never before.	Matt Myklusch is a middle-grade fantasy/adventure writer and the creator of the Seaborne and Jack Black Adventures series. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and family, where he is always hard at work on his next book.
Robin Newman robinnewmanbooks.com	Henrietta Hen's precious egg, Penny, has been poached on the eve of Farmer Ed's Big Speggtacular. Was the egg stolen by a rival for the Most Oval contest? Was she baked into a carrot cake or scrambled by a hungry porker? Or was she held for a hefty corn ransom? Who took Penny, and can the detectives find her before trouble hatches?	Robin Newman was a practicing attorney and legal editor, but she now prefers to write about witches, mice, pigs and peacocks. A graduate of Bryn Mawr College and the CUNY School of Law, she lives in New York with her husband, son, goldfish and two spoiled English Cocker Spaniels. Her books have been recognized and awarded by Kirkus Reviews and the American Bookseller's Association.
Jordan P. Novak jordanpnovak.com	Mosquitoes bite all kinds of people, but they're no match for a ninja! In this wacky and hilarious story, find out who is faster, sneakier and … hungrier!	Jordan P. Novak is the author and illustrator of Mosquitoes Can't Bite Ninjas and illustrator of a philosophy curriculum series by Royal Fireworks Press. A California native, she has decided to live happily ever after in Warwick, NY with her husband, three children and their many, many pets.
Jessica Olien jessicaolien.com	Karl and Hazel are polar bears. They are not friends. Until . . . CRAAACCKKK! Of all the polar bears, Karl is stuck with one who doesn’t like to talk. Of all the polar bears, Hazel is stuck with the one who talks too much. And now they’re drifting out to sea together. Also includes fun facts and resources about polar bears and the Arctic.	Before becoming a children's book maker, Jessica Olien worked as a journalist and lived in Egypt, Thailand and the Netherlands. Her writing for adults has been published in Slate, Salon, Bust, Pacific Standard, The Atlantic, McSweeney's, Jezebel and many others. She now lives in Brooklyn, NY and works from her studio in the Pencil Factory.
Karen Kaufman Orloff karenkaufmanorloff.com	It's not easy getting an active little robot into bed when bedtime comes.	Karen Kaufman Orloff is the author of ten books for children, including the "I Wanna…" books illustrated by David Catrow, which have garnered numerous awards and commendations nationwide.
Ammi-Joan Paquette ajpaquette.com	Did you know that there is a fungus that can control the mind of an ant and make it do its bidding? Would you believe there's such a thing as a corpse flower -- a ten-foot tall plant with a flower that smells like a zombie? How about a species of octopus that lurks in trees in the Pacific Northwest? This is the first book in a fascinating new series presenting some of the most crazy-but-true stories about the living world -- as well as a handful of stories that are too crazy to be true -- and asks readers to separate facts from the fakes!	In her non-writing life, Ammi-Joan Paquette is a senior literary agent with Erin Murphy Literary Agency, representing many top children's and teen authors. She is the recipient of a PEN New England Discovery Award honor and her books have been recognized with starred reviews and on a variety of "Best of the Year" lists.
John Parra johnparraart.com	Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos is based on the life of one of the world's most influential painters, Frida Kahlo, and the animals that inspired her art and life. The fascinating Mexican artist is remembered for her self-portraits, her dramatic works featuring bold and vibrant colors. This story recounts Frida's beloved pets - 2 monkeys, a parrot, 2 dogs, 2 turkeys, an eagle, a black cat and a fawn - and playfully considers how Frida embodied characteristics of each.	John Parra is an award-winning illustrator, designer, teacher and fine art painter. His children's books have earned numerous starred reviews, the ALA's Pura Belpre Honor Award, and the International Latino Book Award for Best Children's Book Illustrations. This year, his art can be seen on 6 new USPS "Forever" postage stamps, titled Delicioso, with images celebrating Latino cuisine. He lives in Queens, NY.
James Preller jamespreller.com	Jigsaw Jones and his partner Mila Yeh have been solving mysteries since the first book in the series appeared in 1998. Though more than 10 million copies have been sold (40 titles in all) the series went out of print. But now Jigsaw Jones is back on the case -- the Case from Outer Space -- with a new publisher. In this story, a mysterious note is tucked into a book located at a "Little Free Library." Could aliens be planning a visit to Earth?	James Preller is the author of many children's books, but may be best known for the popular "Jigsaw Jones" mystery series, now back in print. His newest book for middle-grade readers (grades 4-7) is Better Off Undead, a story set in the not-too-distant future that features a 7th grade zombie forced to attend middle school. James's books have been recognized with many state awards and honored with awards from ALA, NYPLA, Bank Street College and more.
Lizzy Rockwell lizzyrockwell.com	A young boy and his family visit the zoo for the very first time. From gorillas to lions, polar bears to parrots, Anne Rockwell and her daughter, artist Lizzy Rockwell, celebrate a day he will never forget. With simple, lyrical text and bright illustrations that jump off the page, Zoo Day brings the joys of visiting the zoo vividly to life.	Lizzy Rockwell is the illustrator of numerous books and games for children, and the author and illustrator of several more titles. Lizzy also collaborates with her mother, author/illustrator Anne Rockwell. In addition, Lizzy is a muralist, quilter and frequent presenter at schools and libraries. Her works have been recognized with multiple awards from Booklist Annie lives in Bridgeport, CT with her husband Ken Alcorn and their dog, Reggie.
Melissa Roske melissaroske.com	Eleven-year old Kat Greene has a lot on her pre-rinsed plate, thanks to her divorced mom's obsession with cleaning. It's enough to drive any middle-schooler crazy! Add friendship troubles to the mix, a crummy role in the school play and Mom's decision to try out for the TV game show "Clean Sweep," and what've you got? More trouble than Kat can handle. At least without a little help from her friends.	Before spending her days with imaginary people, Melissa Roske interviewed real ones as a journalist in Europe. In London, she landed a job as an advice columnist for Just Seventeen magazine, answering hundreds of readers' letters each week. Upon returning to her native New York, Melissa contributed to various books and magazines, selected jokes for Reader's Digest, and became certified as a life coach. She lives in Manhattan with her husband and daughter.
Carol Roth authorcarolroth.com	Little Tiger has a temper! He stomps his paws, cries, and growls when he doesn’t want to do something. But when his mom says "hold your temper, or else," Little Tiger has to make some changes. Where will he hold his temper? In his pocket…in his underwear?	Carol Roth was born in New York and received her B.A. and Masters degrees in early childhood education. She is a former Kindergarten treacher who has had 13 children's books published to much acclaim. She is the mother of two, grandmother of four and currently lives in New Jersey with her husband. She enjoys taking ballet and teaching English as a Literacy Volunteer of America.
Annie Silvestro anniesilvestro.com	Bunny's Book Club tells the story of a book-loving bunny who sneaks books from the library and shares them with his forest friends. Join Bunny on an adventure that celebrates the power of books, libraries and the one-of-a-kind magic of reading.	Annie Silvestro is a lover of books who reads and writes as much as possible and can often be found shuffling piles of them around to find a place to sit or to place her teacup. She lives with her family by the beach in New Jersey.
Natalie Standiford nataliestandiford.com	Minty's neighborhood is full of mysteries. There's the Witch House. There's the Man-Bat. And there are the Mean Boys, who torment Minty for no reason, and her boy-crazy older sister, Thea. One day Minty discovers a new mystery - a Secret Tree, with a hollow trunk that holds the secrets of everyone in the neighborhood. Secrets like: I put a curse on my enemy, and it's working. I'm betraying my best friend in a terrible way. No one loves me except my goldfish.	Natalie Standiford is the author of many books for children and teens. She lives in New York City and plays bass in the all-YA-author band Tiger Beat. Her books have been honored on the New York Times's Notable Books and Editors' Choice lists, been selected as Best Books by ALA, Kirkus and School Library Journal, and have been selected by multiple library guilds.
Heidi Stemple heidiEYstemple.com	A sassy, irreverent encyclopedia of felonious females throughout history.	Heidi didn't want to be a writer when she grew up. She worked in criminal justice as a probation/parole officer and a private investigator befpre finally joining her family in children's literature. Since then she has published more than 20 award-winning books. She lives on an old tobacco farm in western Massachusetts where she writes, reads, cooks, sews and, once a year, calls and counts owls for the Audubon Christmas Bird Count.
Naoko Stoop naokosstoop.com	Hoshi the sea star looks up in the sky and sees the stars shining. She wishes that she, too, could be in the sky amongst the brilliant stars -- and as she imagines how much better it would be up in the air, fails to appreciate the beautiful world that surrounds her underwater. It takes Hoshi's friends, old and new, to help her realize that her shine comes from within.	Naoko Stoop's love of drawing began when she was a young child growing up in Japan. Naoko now lives and creates in Brooklyn, NY. She uses found materials including plywood and brown paper bags as her canvas.
Dasha Tolstikova dashtolstikova.com	A Year Without Mom follows 12-year old Dasha through a year full of turmoil after her mother leaves for America. It is the early 1990s in Moscow and political change is in the air. But Dasha is more worried about her own challenges as she negotiates family, friendships and school without her mother. Just as she begins to find her own feet, she learns that she is to join her mother in America - impossibly far from everything and everyone she knows.	Dasha Tolstikova is a Brooklyn-based author/illustrator. Her book The Jacket was a New York Times notable book for 2014 and her picture book, A Year Without Mom, garnered four starred reviews and has been translated into Swedish and Korean.
Iza Trapani izatrapani.com	Poor Old MacDonald is in for some surprises when escaped zoo animals visit his farm.	Iza Trapani was born in Poland and moved to the U.S. at age seven. Fascinated with a Mother Goose Treasury, Iza learned English through the rhymes. Little did she know that someday she would retell many of them and become a bestselling children's book author and illustrator. Iza is known for her award-winning series of nursery rhyme extensions, including The Itsy Bitsy Spider, which has sold well over a million copies.
Laurie Wallmark lauriewallmark.com	Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code tells the riveting story of a trailblazing computer scientist. Delighting in difficult ideas and in defying expectations, Grace Hopper coined the term "computer bug" and taught computers to "speak English." With a wealth of witty quotes, this book brings her incredible accomplishments to life.	Laurie Wallmark writes picture books, middle grade books, poetry, prose, fiction and non-fiction, and holds an MFA in Writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. When not writing, Laurie teaches computer science at Raritan Valley Community College. Ada Lovelace and the Thinking Machine received four starred reviews and several national awards. Bank Street College named Ada Lovelace a Cook Prize Honor Book.
Liza Gardner Walsh lizagardnerwalsh.com	Following up on the popular Fairy House and Fairy Garden handbooks, Liza Gardner Walsh presents a new dimension of fairy-themed activities: cooking! In this delightful book, there are lots of delicious recipes, such as pretty fairy muffins, tiny confetti cookies, candied violets and many more. There are also recipes for tiny snacks meant for fairies and fun recipes for treats to leave out for the animal friends of fairies.	Liza Gardner Walsh lives on the coast of Maine with her family. She has worked as a preschool teacher, children's librarian, writing teacher, museum educator and holds a Master's degree in writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She is the author of several books that she hopes will inspire wonder, appreciation and exploration of the world around us. Her book Muddy Boots was nominated for a 2016 Indie Fab award.
Joyce Wan wanart.com	An unlikely pair - a pug and a pig! - realize that it's better to be together. Pug is a very happy pup. He has his own yard, his own bowl and even his own cozy bed! That is, until Pig moves in and starts eating from Pug's bowl, interrupting Pug's routine and, worse, sleeping in Pug's bed! Will Pug and Pig ever learn to live together as friends? This sweet and silly story about a darling duo celebrates embracing change, being kind and finding friends in unlikely places.	Joyce Wan is an award-winning author and illustrator of over twenty books for children, including You Are My Cupcake, We Belong Together and The Whale in My Swimming Pool. Pug Meets Pig, illustrated by Joyce, was recently selected for the Society of Illustrators Art Show, an annual exhibit which showcases the year's best children's picture books. When not working on books, Joyce teaches at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.
Carol Weston carolweston.com	Speed of Life is a heartbreaking, heartwarming story of love, family, grief and growing up. When Sofia, 14, starts confiding in an advice columnist, she has no idea that this anonymous confidante actually may become a part of her real life. The novel begins eight months after the death of Sofia's mother. Sofia's friends have been supportive, but now they want her to move on. Can Dear Kate help? Can Sam, a cute 9th grader?	Carol Weston has been the Dear Carol advice columnist at Girls' Life Magazine since 1994. Her first book, Girltalk, was released in a dozen languages. The New York Times called Ava and Pip "a love letter to language." She has appeared with her books on NBC's Today Show and ABC's The View, and her work has garnered multiple awards. A graduate of Yale with a degree in French and Spanish comparative literature, Carol lives in NYC.
Jane Yolen janeyolen.com	In this collection of poems, renowned children's poet Jane Yolen takes readers on an expedition underground, exploring everything from animal burrows and human creations like subways, near the surface, to ancient cities and fossils, lower down, to caves, magma and Earth's tectonic plates, deeper still. In these poems we see that beneath us are the past, present and future - history, truth and story. A thought-provoking collection to evoke wonder and awe.	Jane Yolen is the author of over 350 books which have received numerous prestigious awards including the Caldecott, Golden Kite, the Nebula (2), Jewish Book Award, the Christopher Medal (2), National Outdoor Book Award and multiple awards for her collective body of work. She holds six honorary doctorates. Jane Yolen lives in Massachusetts in the colder months and Scotland in the summertime, and writes every day.
Timothy Young creaturesandcharacters.com	Benny spots a big cardboard box with a note taped to it saying "Do Not Open." His imagination runs wild. It's almost too much for a curious boy to bear. He thinks about all of the things, good and bad, that could be inside the box. A birthday robot? A wolverine? An entrance to another world? What should he do? This tale has a surprise ending and offers a peek into a young boy's mind as he weighs tantalizing possibilities against the risks of breaking the rules.	Timothy Young has been an animator, puppet maker, toy designer, sculptor, art director and graphic designer. He's designed for Pee-Wee's Playhouse, The Muppets, The Simpsons, Disney and Universal Studios. Tim is also the author/illustrator of six picture books. His work has been awarded the New York Bookbinders Guild Award and was selected as a Utah Beehive runner-up. Tim has also had the opportunity to do workshops in the United Arab Emirates with children from all over the Middle and Far East. He lives with his family on the eastern shore of Maryland.