Recently an author celebrated a momentous anniversary, a Chinese book fair welcomed an American author, the family of a congressman dropped by a children’s book event, tarot was the focus of an author’s launch, nature took center stage at a picture book launch, and friends of an author showed their support.


Because of the Readers

On August 19, Kate DiCamillo kicked off the 25th anniversary celebration of her Newbery Honor-winning novel Because of Winn-Dixie (Candlewick) with Red Balloon Bookshop for a sold-out event at the Riverview Theater in Minneapolis. Several hundred local fans attended a film screening of the 2005 film adaptation and a book signing. Here, DiCamillo appears outside the theater with a marquee commemorating the occasion.


Going Global

American author Wendelin Van Draanen was invited to attend the South China Book Fair in Guangdong Province as the featured U.S. novelist for her 2001 YA novel Flipped (Knopf). At the event, Van Draanen gave introductory remarks at the opening ceremony press reception at the Fair, gave an interview at the Main Stage Lounge, along with a presentation centered on books uniting the world.


To the Moon

Stuart Gibbs made an appearance at Barnes & Noble in Huntington Beach, Calif., on August 18 for the launch of his Moon Base Alpha series (S&S). The graphic novel adaptation of Space Case, illustrated by Ward Jenkins, follows Dashiell who lives on the moon and must investigate the sudden death of a fellow lunarnaut. Gibbs was awarded a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition by the congressman’s office. Shown here: (from l.) Gibbs accepts his award with Jane K. Stoever (r.) and Paxton Min (m.), wife and son of California Congressman Dave Min, respectively.


It’s the Future I Can See!

Books, Inc. in Palo Alto, Calif., gave Kristen Witte a warm welcome on August 24 for the launch of her picture book The Children’s Illustrated Book of Tarot (Odd Dot). Illustrated by Margarita Kukhtina, the guide introduces young readers to the world of tarot, breaking down the symbols and meanings behind the cards. At the event, Witte gave a reading, a tarot demonstration, and led guests in a coloring activity.


Touching Grass

Author Susan Edwards Richmond was invited to Fuller Farms in West Barnstable, Mass., to take part in the Young Naturalists Series, which highlights children’s books about nature. The event, hosted in collaboration with local bookstore Titcomb’s Bookshop, Barnstable Land Trust, and nonprofit Resilient Roots, consisted of a readaloud her new picture book The Great Pollinator Count, followed by a pollinator walk at Fuller Farm and a short tour with Resilient Roots through its permaculture pollinator garden and trails.


Come One, Come All!

On August 19, Children’s Book World in Haverford, Pa., hosted the launch event for Cordelia Jensen and her newest novel-in-verse, Lilac and the Switchback (Holiday House). The middle grade book follows the titular Lilac, who goes in search of her estranged father upon learning that her aunt is pregnant. Here, (from l.) author friends was greeted by fellow authors Laurie Morrison (front l.) , Laura Sibson (front r.), Taylor Tracy (second row r.), and Dan Torday (back r.), dropped by Jensen’s event to show support.