The Texas Book Festival: Picture Books and Early Chapter Books

Check out this FABULOUS line up of featured books by Texas Book Festival Picture Book and Early Chapter Book authors! I can hardly wait to dig in (and see some of my favorite authors)!

What is the Texas Book Festival?

Only "one of the largest and most prestigious literary festivals in the country." (Texas Book Festival)

The Festival is held every year, and features 250+ authors and 100+ exhibitors spread over 20+ venues around the Texas State Capitol Building, with a wide range of panels, meet and greets, family activities, and of course, food trucks! 

This year's event is this weekend, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 AND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2018.

Most authors/illustrators will be available for book signings following their speaking event. Come to the Children's Book Signing Tent to get an autograph by your favorite author, and say hi to me while you are there!

Can't wait to see you!  

All Around Us
Xelena Gonzalez, Adriana M. Garcia

10/27 at 12:15 PM, Latinx Lit Tent (with Erika L. Sanchez, Celia C. Perez, Xelena Gonzalez and Adriana Garcia) AND 10/27 at 4 PM, Read Me a Story Tent

Grandpa says circles are all around us. He points to the rainbow that rises high in the sky after a thundercloud has come. "Can you see? That's only half of the circle. That rest of it is down below, in the earth." He and his granddaughter meditate on gardens and seeds, on circles seen and unseen, inside and outside us, on where our bodies come from and where they return to. They share and create family traditions in this stunning exploration of the cycles of life and nature.

The Cybils 2018: Children's and YA Bloggers' Literary Awards (with a Chicken Nugget GIVEAWAY!)

It's the most wonderful time of the year: the kids are back in school, settled and happy; you can get pumpkin spice everything (though admittedly, this goes too far); it is even rumored that in some places the air is crisp and cool.

But even more importantly (tiny drumroll in your head, please):

IT IS CYBILS NOMINATION TIME!

Let's Raise Books! (a Pop Up Birthday Book-raiser)

Every once in a while you come across an organization or group that is doing such amazing things that they make YOU feel inspired and ready to take on the world. Pop-Up Birthday is that organization for me right now.

Pop-Up Birthday's Mission: 
"To provide birthday celebrations to children in foster care and create a moment of connection between the child and their caregiver.  We believe that something as simple as a birthday party has the power to provide normalcy, joy and hope in a foster child’s life."

They do something so simple, yet so powerful! What a fun and special way to make an impact in the lives of children who (unfortunately) really need to be reminded how amazing and beautiful the world can really be.

Pop-Up Birthday provides "a plastic tote filled to the brim with complete party supplies, including theme decorations, paper goods, games/craft, cake, candles, balloons, goody bags, a personalized card and gifts for the foster child." Because Laila Scott (the founder of this goodness) understands the value of books in the lives of children, each box also includes a new book. This pretty much hits upon every single thing that I love and that is good in this world (and I know there are others of you just like me out there!): BOOKS, GIFT GIVING, PAPER GOODS (giftwrap, cards and party supplies galore!), PARTY PLANNING, HELPING KIDS IN NEED, HELPING FOSTER CARE KIDDOS...so much goodness! 

As you can see, I am in love.

So, to help support Pop-Up Birthday in the best way I know how, I am raising books! Want to help?

What I'm Raising: New children's books (picture book to YA)

To donate before September 21, 2016, go HERE and pledge the number of books you are donating (1 to infinity!). My 4th and 16th pledges will receive an INSTANT WIN PRIZE (a $25 AMAZON GIFT CARD). Plus, I will match your book pledges, up to the first 20 books. To donate after September 21, 2016, simply leave me a comment on this post so we know to look for your donation!

Once you've pledged, you can either mail the book directly to me (PM me on Facebook for my physical address), or send them directly to Pop-Up Birthday!

I hope you'll come join me and take part in this book-drive for a great cause. And, if you want to volunteer or put together a box of your own, I know they would love to have your help!

Happy Reading! 

Even MORE Story Theater for Kiddos!

Last month I posted about several great performances in the Austin area based on children's literature. This month there are even more! Go check one (or all!) of them out!

ZACH Theater Presents: James and the Giant Peach

Saturdays and Sundays, February 19, 2016 – April 10, 2016
TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE FOR SATURDAY AND SUNDAY!

Select Saturdays: 11 AM and 2 PM, Select Sundays: 2 PM

This show is for children ages 5 and up.

The Long Center Presents: Where the Wild Things Are
Wednesday, April 13 - Sunday, April 17, 2016
Wed, Thurs: 11 AM & 4 PM, Fri: 4 & 7 PM,
Sat: 10 AM, 1 & 4 PM, Sun: 1&4 PM
This show is BEST for ages 4-7.

Literature Live! Presents: The Selfish Gardener

February 15, 2016 – April 30, 2016

Performances at various times

This show is recommended for children ages 4 and up. 

ZACH Theater Presents: Alice in Wonderland

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, March 4, 2016 – May 15, 2016

Select Fridays: 6:30 PM; 
Select Saturdays and Sundays: 11 AM and 2 PM

This show is for children ages 5 and up.


Bonus Performances!

Pollyanna Theatre Company Presents: Jamie Doesn't Want to Take a Bath
(not based on kid's lit, but a fantastic intro to theater for littles!)
April 7, 2016 - April 9, 2016
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 AM and 11 AM
Best for children 2 - 4 

Austin City Ballet Presents: Peter Pan
(Austin City Ballet specializes in performances for children, by children. 
Peter Pan was first mentioned in an adult novel, before appearing as the main character in a play, and finally appearing in Peter and Wendy, a novel expanding the play, in 1911.)
April 16, 2016 - April 17, 2016
1:30 PM and 4 PM

Austin Scottish Rite Theater Presents: The Town Musicians of Mumbai 
(A Bollywood adaptation of the Grimm tale, the "Town Musicians of Bremen")
April 2, 2016 - May 1, 2016
Saturdays and Sundays, 11 AM and 1 PM

Story Time Roundup (over 100 per WEEK!) *UPDATED AUGUST 2016!*

Did you know that Austin-area libraries, bookstores and children's entertainment/educational companies host over 100 story times PER WEEK? That's over 5000 STORY TIMES PER YEAR!

While this list is up-to-date (as of the posting date) based on what is available online, please make sure to check in with the location before attending! Dates, times and locations can change! Please also note that while most of the libraries also have FANTASTIC programs for elementary aged kids, tweens and teens, this list focuses primarily on programs for the 5 and younger set (with some mixed age programs that go slightly older).

Did I miss one? Let me know in the comments, and I'll add it to the list!

MONDAY
9:30	LEANDER PUBLIC LIBRARY	Terrific 2s and 3s
10:00	PFLUGERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	Baby Time (3 to 12 months)
10:30	LEANDER PUBLIC LIBRARY	Stories for Bigs
10:30	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Baby Bookworms (0-18 months)
10:30	WESTBANK COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Infant Storytime
11:00	PFLUGERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	Baby Time (12 to 18 months)
11:00	BRILLIANT SKY TOYS AND BOOKS	Story Time with Dr. Candra
11:15	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Baby Bookworms (12-24 months)
12:30	LAURA’S LIBRARY	All Ages Storytime
2:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (TWIN OAKS BRANCH)	Books and Babies
6:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (CARVER BRANCH)	Pajama Storytime
6:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime (Pajama Friendly Session)
TUESDAY
9:15	LEANDER PUBLIC LIBRARY	Baby & Me with Cindy
9:30	GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY	Lapsit Storytime (0-12 months)
9:45	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Lapsit Storytime (0-15 months)
10:00	PFLUGERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	Bilingual Storytime (English/Spanish)
10:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (NORTH VILLAGE BRANCH)	Books and Babies
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (CARVER BRANCH)	All Ages Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (PLEASANT HILL BRANCH)	All Ages Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (HAMPTON BRANCH AT OAK HILL)	Toddler Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (SPICEWOOD SPRINGS BRANCH)	Toddler Storytime
10:30	WESTBANK COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime
10:30	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler Storytime (15-36 months)
10:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Bilingual Preschool Storytime
10:30	BOOK PEOPLE	Storytime
10:30	ALL THINGS KID (DOMAIN)	Unicorn Princess Storytime
11:00	PFLUGERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	Bilingual Storytime (English/Spanish)
11:00	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)
11:00	BARNES & NOBLE (ROUND ROCK)	Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (HAMPTON BRANCH AT OAK HILL)	Preschool Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (SPICEWOOD SPRINGS BRANCH)	Preschool Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (NORTH VILLAGE BRANCH)	Spanish Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (CEPEDA BRANCH)	Spanish Dual Language Storytime
11:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (CARVER BRANCH)	Sensory Storytime
2:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (HOWSON BRANCH)	Books and Babies
6:00	WESTBANK COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Pajama Storytime (All Ages)  **4th Tuesday of month  ONLY
6:30	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	All Ages Storytime and Craft
WEDNESDAY
9:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Babytime (for ages 12-18 months)
9:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler time
9:30	GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler Storytime
9:45	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Lapsit Storytime (0-15 months)
10:00	LEANDER PUBLIC LIBRARY	Move N Groove Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (HOWSON BRANCH)	All Ages Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (MILWOOD BRANCH)	Toddler Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (NORTH VILLAGE BRANCH)	Toddler Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (OLD QUARRY BRANCH)	Toddler Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (TWIN OAKS BRANCH)	Toddler Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (SOUTHEAST BRANCH)	Spanish Dual Language Storytime
10:30	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Wiggle Worms (ages 1-4)
10:30	WESTBANK COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Tot Time Storytime
10:30	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler Storytime (15-36 months)
10:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler time
10:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime
10:30	GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY	3+ Storytime
10:30	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (TERRAZAS BRANCH)	Spanish Dual Language Storytime
11:00	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)
11:00	BARNES & NOBLE (SUNSET VALLEY)	Storytime
11:00	BARNES & NOBLE (ARBORETUM)	Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (UNIVERSITY HILLS BRANCH)	All Ages Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (MILWOOD BRANCH)	Preschool Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (NORTH VILLAGE BRANCH)	Preschool Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (OLD QUARRY BRANCH)	Preschool Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (TWIN OAKS BRANCH)	Preschool Storytime
2:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (WILLIE MAE KIRK BRANCH)	Books and Babies
2:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (YARBOROUGH BRANCH)	Books and Babies
3:30	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (HAMPTON BRANCH AT OAK HILL)	French Dual Language Storytime
THURSDAY
9:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Babytime (for ages 0 -12 months)
9:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime
9:30	GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler Storytime
9:30	GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY	3+ Storytime
9:45	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Lapsit Storytime (0-15 months)
10:00	PFLUGERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (WINDSOR PARK BRANCH)	All Ages Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (HAMPTON BRANCH AT OAK HILL)	Toddler Storytime
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (YARBOROUGH BRANCH)	Toddler Storytime
10:30	WESTBANK COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Hola, Hola! Spanish Camp (All Ages)
10:30	LAURA’S LIBRARY	Tot Time Storytime
10:30	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler Storytime (15-36 months)
10:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler time
10:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime
10:30	BOOK PEOPLE	Storytime
10:30	ALL THINGS KID (DOMAIN)	Unicorn Princess Storytime
11:00	LEANDER PUBLIC LIBRARY	Terrific 2s and 3s
11:00	PFLUGERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	Storytime
11:00	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Sign Language Storytime  (all ages; **1st and 3rd weeks ONLY!)
11:00	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (MANCHACA ROAD BRANCH)	All Ages Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (HAMPTON BRANCH AT OAK HILL)	Toddler Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (YARBOROUGH BRANCH)	Preschool Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (LITTLE WALNUT CREEK BRANCH)	Spanish Dual Language Storytime
11:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (RUIZ BRANCH)	Sensory Storytime
11:00	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Spanish Storytime (all ages;  **2nd and 4th weeks ONLY!)
2:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (MILWOOD BRANCH)	Books and Babies
6:30	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (MANCHACA ROAD BRANCH)	Pajama Storytime
FRIDAY
9:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Babytime (for ages 12-18 months)
9:30	BABY EARTH	Interactive Storytime (0 to 18 months)
10:00	LEANDER PUBLIC LIBRARY	Baby & Me with Cindy
10:15	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (PLEASANT HILL BRANCH)	Spanish Dual Language Storytime
10:30	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Toddler Storytime (18-36 months)
10:30	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Toddler time
10:30	BABY EARTH	Interactive Storytime (18 months+)
10:30	GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY	All Ages Storytime
10:30	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (FAULK CENTRAL BRANCH)	Preschool Storytime
10:45	ART GARAGE	Storytime Art
11:15	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)
12:30	LAURA’S LIBRARY	All Ages Storytime
2:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (SOUTHEAST BRANCH)	Spanish Dual Language Storytime
7:00	BARNES & NOBLE (ROUND ROCK)	Storytime
SATURDAY
10:00	CEDAR PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Family Storytime
10:45	ART GARAGE	Storytime Art
11:00	WELLS BRANCH COMMUNITY LIBRARY	All Ages Storytime and Craft
11:00	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Family Storytime
11:00	BARNES & NOBLE (SUNSET VALLEY)	Storytime
11:00	BARNES & NOBLE (LAKELINE)	Storytime
11:00	BARNES & NOBLE (ROUND ROCK)	Storytime
11:00	BARNES & NOBLE (ARBORETUM)	Storytime
11:00	AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (RUIZ BRANCH)	Spanish Dual Language Storytime
11:30	BOOK PEOPLE	Storytime
12:30	WESTBANK COMMUNITY LIBRARY	Family Storytime
SUNDAY
TBD	ROUND ROCK PUBLIC LIBRARY	Sensory Storytime  (**LAST SUNDAY OF  MONTH ONLY!)

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