Children’s book writer musing about the craft, and posting #PBreview, while waiting for manuscript feedback.
https://sondrazalewski.com/
Sondra Zalewski
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Preface in anniversary edition of The Wind In The Willows:
It should be ready on your shelf, like a Bible, for the day when you need it. … He has taken us with him down into what he once called “the back-kitchen” of the unconscious, where the dream kettle boils the brew of what we really care about.
I finally comprehend the intrinsic power of CRAFTING: it challenges your brain enough to keep your mind from wandering to other thoughts (or else you paint or cut yourself) while allowing room for creative exploration.
Here’s to more time in 2026 to play without deadlines!
Learned this nugget from a recent scbwiepa.bsky.social webinar that was chock-full of useful and relevant content.
“Sometimes it’s just doing something a little bit differently that will help the pieces fall into place.”—Lilly Ghahremani wonderlilly.bsky.social
There is plenty we have to give up in order to grow. For we cannot deeply love anything without becoming vulnerable to loss. And we cannot become separate people, responsible people, connected people, reflective people without some losing and leaving and letting go.
—Judith Viorst, NECESSARY LOSSES
A touching story by @hellomrsdinh.bsky.social that shows the nuanced feelings kids have about honoring their heritage. Yong Ling Kang’s beautifully detailed illustrations strengthen the mood. Tiên comes to see the value of her family’s jade bracelet tradition and the magic it holds. #PBreview
Siblings enjoy the simple pleasures of the day which culminate in a rooftop fireworks display. @matthewburgessj.bsky.social uses onomatopoeia throughout the story paired with Chien’s artwork to create a joy for the ears & eyes and remind readers to embrace the unique treats of summertime. #PBreview
The title is intriguing and @cgroenink.bsky.social cover illustration beckons you inside. @tanya_rosie tells a tale about a father and daughter observing the splendor of nature in their backyard. Readers will discover the hedgehog highway and dream of making such memories for themselves. #PBreview
A delightfully funny story with emotive images of Aggie and the persistent one-eyed ghost that haunts her home. @mattforsythe.bsky.social has a knack for infusing sarcastic charm into his characters. Definitely a book kids will bug you to read over and over again like an annoying ghost. #PBreview
I loved learning about this global safe house for seeds. @meganclendenan.bsky.social talks about the diversity of plants found across countries and cultures. @cicchese-art.bsky.social art adds a mystical quality to the story. This NF book will inform and motivate readers of all ages. #PBreview
