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 »
Nature
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 »
Comfort Food for the Soul
Come January, do you find you want to reread favorite books, re-watch favorite movies, or listen to favorite pieces of music? I do. Other times of the year, I prefer discovering something new. But in January, even as we begin a new year, I find myself recalling things from the past that I want to… Read more »
From Nancy Drew to Annie Dillard… and Beyond
I love nonfiction. I love to read it, and I love to write it. But when I was a child, I mostly liked fiction: Amelia Bedelia, Nancy Drew mysteries, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, and so many more. I hardly remember any nonfiction. And while I enjoyed researching topics like stars… Read more »
Making an Ordinary Outing an Adventure
It was my daughter’s idea—catching the sunrise and sunset on the summer solstice. She planned to see them with a friend, and I smiled at the idea. So, early Saturday morning, when the pink light of dawn glimmered around the edges of my bedroom curtains, I decided to copy her. “Come with me,” I whispered to… 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!