Today on “Take Five” I’m recommending Before We Stood Tall: From Small Seed to Mighty Tree. This picture book was written by Jessica Kulekjian and illustrated by Madeline Kloepper (Kids Can Press, 2021). From the front flap: “Discover the extraordinary life cycle of trees—in reverse! From mature tree to young tree to sapling to sprout… Read more »
Cup of Tea with Cindy
Conversations about Kid Lit
Cynthia Argentine writes books and poetry for children and teens. She works professionally as an author and piano teacher, and formerly served as an environmental consultant. She comes from a family of engineers, scientists, and mathematicians who continually inspire her to learn something new.
This blog is like an invitation to talk over tea. We can sample new varieties and discuss books, science, poems, nature, writing, family life, and other things that spark joy and wonder. Join the conversation by sending Cindy an email with your thoughts!
Introducing “Take Five”—Book Talks in Five Bullets
I’m starting a series of short posts about children’s books I recommend. In each post, I will list five aspects of the text that strike me as memorable, magical, or noteworthy. My goal is to showcase great books while highlighting effective writing techniques. To kick off the series, I present an award-winning, nonfiction picture book… Read more »
Planning a Book Launch? Have a “Book Birthday” Party
To celebrate the release of my first book for young readers, I held a “Book Birthday” Party at my local library. Books have birthdays, too, and kids thought having a party for a book was a fun twist. If you’re an author brainstorming ideas for an upcoming launch, perhaps my experience will spark a few… Read more »
One Week to Launch!
Night Becomes Day: Changes in Nature arrives in less than a week–on October 5! I received my author copies in the mail this week, and the printed pages are even more vivid than the digital images on my computer screen. As the book launch nears, I’d like to tell you about some upcoming events. First,… Read more »
Apple Blossoms, MTV Awards, and Finding Awe Outdoors
Nature instills wonder. We just have to notice. I recently read a Writer’s Digest article on how authors should gauge their success. It said, “Start by asking yourself: Why did I write this book?” I wrote Night Becomes Day: Changes in Nature because transformations fascinate me. Each summer, I watch flowers turn into fruit in… Read more »
Tea of the Week
Earl Gray
It has turned windy and cold here in the Midwest, and hot tea is a daily afternoon ritual now!