If asked to pick one author that exemplifies Maine, it would be Robert McCloskey. If asked to pick an author who understands the lives of children, it would still be McCloskey. McCloskey actually was "from away," born on this date in 1914 in Ohio. But his careful, detailed, and observant drawings and stories of life on the Maine … Continue reading September 15: Happy Birthday, Robert McCloskey

On this day in 1916, Roald Dahl was born in Wales to Norwegian parents. He may be the most popular children's novelist, and for good, quirky reason. His gems include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, and Matilda. Ways to Celebrate: Throw a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory party, of course. If you want a healthier option, … Continue reading September 13: Happy Birthday, Roald Dahl

If you're a writer or editor and would like a little more love, celebrate Be Kind to Editors and Writers Month in September. OK, it’s a pseudo holiday from Lone Star Publications of Humor in San Antonio, Texas. Plus, it's self-serving to suggest others be kind to you. But, embrace it as fully as you like, and … Continue reading Be Kind to Editors and Writers This Month

Leo Tolstoy, born in 1828 in Russia, is considered one of the greatest novelists ever. I admit, while I've read (and loved) Anna Karenina, my copy of his most famous War and Peace has yet to be started. It is optimistically waiting in one of my books-to-read shelves though. Ways to Celebrate Dress up in your finest and have a Russian-style Anna … Continue reading September 9: Happy Birthday, Leo Tolstoy

September 8: Jack Prelutsky's Birthday Hooray! The silly, imaginative, popular children’s poet Jack Prelutsky was born in 1940 on this day. We can thank Prelutsky for playful poems and wordplay like "It's Raining Pigs and Noodles" and "Miss Misinformation." Ways to Celebrate: Recite some Prelutsky aloud for laughs. Read Pizza, Pigs, and Poetry for inspiration and write your own poem. Or find … Continue reading September 8: Happy Birthday, Jack Prelutsky and International Literacy Day