THEY SAID A REUNION WOULD NEVER HAPPEN...

But it did (sort of). 3 of the 4 members of the Book Street Boys appeared at the NAEYC in Washington, DC last week.
Tad Hills, Chris Raschka, Bob Staake, and Dan Yaccarino were together again, this time for a panel on- what else? Picture books!
Unfortunately, Bob was only able to attend via video as he was unable to leave his fortress of solitude 50 miles below the Earth's crust in the Arctic Circle.

HELLO MINNEAPOLIS!

I spoke at the Minnesota chapter of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and had a fabulous time! I can tell you it's absolutely true what they say about "Minnesota Nice." Everyone was so incredibly kind and polite and once I got over my natural New York suspicion of these friendly folk, I really had lovely time!

So I guess they must've read all the food-related posts on my blog because this wonderful multi-tiered display of baked goods was on the breakfast table at the conference.

I consider it a success if I'm not heckled when I speak. Success! No hecklers.

I signed lots of copies of my books, but for some reason was discouraged to sign anyone else's.

All that speaking and signing sure made me hungry, so...

Off to local favorite and roast beef sandwich shrine, Mayslacks!

Here's a piece of advice, kids: never eat anything bigger than your head.

And if you do, never ever order a side of onion rings.

Thanks for a great time, Minneapolis!

20 YEARS!

This is what 20 years of writing and illustrating books for children looks like.

I cannot express how fortunate I am to be able to have a career that I not only write stories and create images, but to do it for children. It is the best job in the world. I am truly blessed.

Okay. Now onto the next 20 years!