Author: Nicki Richesin

Hugo based on The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick and War Horse adapted from the children’s novel by Michael Morpurgo have both been nominated for Best Picture this year. Take a look back at some of the books that have inspired memorable films and been honored as nominees for Best Picture by the academy over the years.

Shana Corey is one remarkable lady. She’s an author of many bestselling books; editor at Random House Books for Young Readers; and mother to two young boys in Brooklyn. Her most recent book is a tribute to the founder of the Girl Scouts, Juliette Gordon Low. Tagalong (get it?) with us as we discuss books, writing, and fascinating women in history.

Anna Grossnickle Hines is the author of over sixty-five, much-cherished books for children. She has an infectious joy for creating stories, like Daddy Makes the Best Spaghetti and Peaceful Pieces, children will learn from and return to again and again. Her most recent “book” is actually an app for the iPad, adapted from her book Not Without Bear.

In celebration of African American History month, I discovered some especially moving books to share with The Children’s Book Review. Fighting for justice and equality through solidarity and courage, these books uncover the truth of the African American experience whether it’s during the time of the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement or even today.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and you know what that means: time to read some love stories! Here are just a few selections with which you’re sure to fall in love. So snuggle up with your favorite little reader and share a good laugh, a cuddle, and a whole lotta love.

Marla Frazee is the award-winning author and illustrator of many celebrated bestselling books including The Seven Silly Eaters, Stars, The Boss Baby, Roller Coaster, and the Clementine series. Her acclaimed books All the World and A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever received the Caldecott Honor Award.

Blair was honored as a Disney legend in 1991 for her designs during the golden age of animation. In October 2011, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences honored her with a “Centennial Tribute” at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills.

Patricia Polacco is the much-loved, award-winning author of many children’s picture books. She has most recently published Bun Bun Button and Just in Time, Abraham Lincoln.

Bestselling author and illustrator, LeUyen Pham, began her career as a layout artist for Dreamworks Feature Animation. She wrote and illustrated All The Things I Love About You and Big Sister, Little Sister and is the illustrator of numerous other picture books.

Maria Tatar is Professor of Germanic Languages and Literatures and Folklore and Mythology at Harvard University. Her latest book The Annotated Peter Pan is a glorious celebration of the centenary of the first publication of the novel, originally entitled Peter and Wendy by J.M. Barrie.