I typically share one of my photos when I post, but I'd like to do something a little different today. As many of you know, I am working on a series of children's books called "In My Backyard". I have published "Who Lives in My Backyard" and "Garden Spiders Live in My Backyard" and have several more in the works.
Some people have asked me why I focus on children's books instead of selling prints or books for adults. My answer is two-fold. I like to think that my books are for adults as well as children. Each contains detailed images of common sights in a typical Maine backyard that can be appreciated by adults, but they also contain information to entertain and educate young readers. Which brings me to the second reason I write for children.
I believe that children should be exposed to the world them (including their backyard) in a way that is meaningful to them. As a parent and a former teacher, I have often encountered children's books that miss the mark when it comes to accuracy. Whether it is as simple as a graphic of a toad accompanying text about a frog or poorly-designed graphics that don't provide valuable information to the reader, these errors negatively affect children's learning. That's why I am committed to providing real-life photos to illustrate my books.
This series will grow with your child as he learns about the natural world around him. The very young can enjoy the photos, while older children will learn basic facts about the natural world. It is my hope that my books will inspire children (and adults) to become more observant and develop a respect for the earth and all its inhabitants.
These books are ideal as gifts from parents and grandparents, but they are also an excellent choice for reading libraries in elementary school or as supplements to the science curriculum. If you know a child who could benefit from one of my books, add it to your gift list. But don't overlook giving this book to your favorite teacher or even to vacationers who visit Maine each year.
Please take a moment to help me spread the word about my books by sharing with friends and family or anyone who you think would benefit from the books.
Some people have asked me why I focus on children's books instead of selling prints or books for adults. My answer is two-fold. I like to think that my books are for adults as well as children. Each contains detailed images of common sights in a typical Maine backyard that can be appreciated by adults, but they also contain information to entertain and educate young readers. Which brings me to the second reason I write for children.
I believe that children should be exposed to the world them (including their backyard) in a way that is meaningful to them. As a parent and a former teacher, I have often encountered children's books that miss the mark when it comes to accuracy. Whether it is as simple as a graphic of a toad accompanying text about a frog or poorly-designed graphics that don't provide valuable information to the reader, these errors negatively affect children's learning. That's why I am committed to providing real-life photos to illustrate my books.
This series will grow with your child as he learns about the natural world around him. The very young can enjoy the photos, while older children will learn basic facts about the natural world. It is my hope that my books will inspire children (and adults) to become more observant and develop a respect for the earth and all its inhabitants.
These books are ideal as gifts from parents and grandparents, but they are also an excellent choice for reading libraries in elementary school or as supplements to the science curriculum. If you know a child who could benefit from one of my books, add it to your gift list. But don't overlook giving this book to your favorite teacher or even to vacationers who visit Maine each year.
Please take a moment to help me spread the word about my books by sharing with friends and family or anyone who you think would benefit from the books.