Category Archives: Books

Review of “All We Need Is a Little Practice”

Kirkus Reviews has recently recommended “All We Need Is a Little Practice,” the latest book in the Nana’s Bookshelf collection by Antoinette Simmonds. Calling it “A quietly effective look at how we learn and come together,” the review highlights the … Continue reading

New Book! Introducing “All We Need Is a Little Practice”

‘All We Need is a Little Practice’ will join the other Nana’s Bookshelf books in November 2024. A heartwarming tale of music, family, and unexpected harmony! Like lots of boys, Kayson and his two brothers love playing sports but it’s … Continue reading

Review of “Lizzy Has Fantastic Feet”

Kirkus Reviews recommends “Lizzy Has Fantastic Feet,” a new children’s book in the Nana’s Bookshelf collection by Antoinette Simmonds. Calling it “A charming and creative lesson about building self-esteem,” the review highlights the relatable themes, diverse characters, and expressive illustrations. … Continue reading

Book Review: Hair Love by Vashti Harrison

Hair Love by Vashti Harrison A father decides to stay at home to be with his daughter. One of the things he has to do is comb his daughter’s hair. Vashti used tight curls to illustrate the various textures of … Continue reading

How Old is Grandma? Activity Sheets

Do you have children that need fun activities? We have created five free printable activity sheets based on “How Old is Grandma?” The PDF packet includes coloring pages and some opportunities for thoughtful reflections on the grandparents in your own … Continue reading

Reviews for ‘How Old is Grandma?’

The reviews have started coming in for ‘How Old is Grandma?’ and I’m so happy and touched. There are some people really enjoying the book and its great to see the book is being enjoyed. Here are some of the … Continue reading

My Inspiration to Write ‘How Old is Grandma?’

What was my inspiration to write a book? While raising my children, we would visit the library once a week. The librarian started recognizing us and would point our areas of books she thought each one would enjoy. My biggest … Continue reading

Book Review. Peter’s Chair by Ezra Jack Keats

I review another of my favorite diverse picture books. Peter’s Chair  By Ezra Jack Keats “A little sister can mean big trouble!” Ezra illustrates the problems and worries that Peter has when he has to adjust to having a little … Continue reading

Book Review. My Family Plays Music by Judy Cox.

One of the goals for my writing is to contribute family-oriented books that illustrate relatable characters of people of color. As a lover of children’s literature and having loved reading to my children and grandchildren, I wanted to share some … Continue reading

Illustrating ‘How Old is Grandma’: Character Designs

‘How Old is Grandma?’ centers around two young boys, Kendall and Kayson, and their family, as they enjoy a fun day full of imaginative curiosity and humorous misunderstanding.  As the illustrator for this book, one of my first big tasks … Continue reading