I Found an Agent, Isn't that Good

Yes, as a artist or writer you may be so excited that this new agent as decided you have the right stuff. But beware. Do not be so flattered and thrilled that you do not approach with caution. I found a great article from artist, Kathleen Rietz in the SCBWI- Illinois Chapter Newsletter, The Prairie Wind, telling about such an experience. So always be careful.

RESTING.............

I'm posting a finished illustration for a picture book, Rainbow Nights, by Sally Harris, due out in a few months. I am taking a few days off from drawing as I unpack my things in my new home. The move has been long and piece by piece which has made me a bit spaced. As I regroup, I'm already planning work on a new project. Just let me get this next box unpacked.

New Review of Hamster Holidays

So pleased with the review from Armchair Interviews:

Hamster Holidays: Noun and Adjective Adventures
by Cynthia Reeg; Illustrated by Kit Grady
Published by Guardian Angel Publishing

Reviewed by Laura V. Hilton

Has your child been struggling with learning about nouns and adjectives and what their jobs are in a sentence? Then this cute little book about hamsters and holidays will be just the right thing to help your child identify these important parts of a sentence.

With fun and wacky holidays that may or may not be real (I didn’t take the time to look them up), hamsters gear up to celebrate days such as: Book Pal Day, Puddle Jumping Day, Monster Madness Day, Toy Parade Day, and others, the author will teach children the definition of nouns and adjectives.

Using sentences like “Sleepy Babe rides the rocking horse float,” the author highlights the adjectives in red, and the nouns in blue, making them easily visible to children. Colorful pictures further illustrate the sentences and help draw the children’s attention.

The back of the book includes a study guide, a short story for the child to read and identify the nouns and adjectives, a place where the child can identify nouns as person/place/or thing by putting them in the correct column, and other fun activities.

This book would be ideal for any child struggling with the basic parts of sentences, whether public, private, or home schooled. Suggested ages: 5 to 12.

Armchair Interviews says: This book will help grammar become fun.

From our armchair to yours...

You knew it was going to happen............

opps,

LOUIE V IS BACK FOR MORE

Louie V, from The Secret Adventures of Louie V, has returned. This furry fun feline is ready to celebrate something great. I guess you and Louie will have to wait to find out what is going on. But my illustrations are done and on the way for Tracey Delio's newest Book, Louie V. Takes the Cake. So much fun to sketch and paint this lively cat through his point of view. Take a peek at Louie's Life and you will agree, Louie is a Love.

Hamsters Gone Wild

more inside pictures from Hamster Holidays

Hamster Holiday Coming Soon

Cynthia Reeg has released her new noun and adventure book, Hamster Holiday.
This is another educational book in the Pet Grammar Parade Series.
Illustrating her six hamsters and their crazy antics was an adventure all its own.
Inside sneak peek

Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Carolinas Caption Contest

My illustration was selected for the SCBWI caption contest for the Pen and Palett. All Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Carolinas can nab a $10. gift certificate by submitting their caption for this picture. So what do you think it should be? Submit suggested text to jcllbell@yahoo.com
Please use subject line " Summer 2009 P&P Caption Contest " Lets see what you got
You must be a SCBWI Carolinas member to enter.

Such a Wondrous Busy Summer

Don't be so busy, you miss the important things. So easy to do.

SISTER EXCHANGE soon to be released

The cover is out for Kevin McNamee's new book. SISTER EXCHANGE was a delight to illustrate. In Kevin's story, Brianna, the older sister tries to replace her younger sister with a new one. As they say, Be careful what you wish for. Soon to be released by Guardian Angel Publishing.

2009 San Francisco Book Festival Winner

I just found out, The Secret Adventures of Louie V, by Tracey Delio, has won honorable mention in the 2009 San Francisco Book Festival. I'm thrilled to have worked on the illustrations for Louie V.

What Is Magic Fairy Dust Made Of?

What is Magic Fairy Dust made of? I found an interesting blog by Christy Evers, member of a wonderful writers and illustrators group in North Carolina called The Goalies
She shares her thoughts on making your characters real.