Joanna Marple
In my 20's, with only my guitar and a rucksack, I wandered the continents, immersing myself in the lives of some wonderful people, projects and stories, which changed the way I view my responsibility to others and this earth. Right now I'm a European transplant in the US who writes books for children and young adults. Stories can help us not only navigate our world but can connect us to others, and allow us to inspire and help each other. I believe that equity and empathy should be at the core of our all actions, words, and stories. I am also a school librarian and I get a kick out of book-matchmaking! And I use the pronouns she/her.
Diverse Children’s Books
12×12 Challenge
Category Archives: Children’s literature
Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves – MG recommendation
Title: Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves Author: L. M. Elliott Publisher: Catherine Tegan Books, 2022 Ages: 10-14 Format/Genre: historical fiction Themes: WWII, Virginia, Chesapeake Bay, German U-boats, tugboats, mental health, loss, grief, war, USA, coming of age Opening: My mama … Continue reading
In Our Garden – Perfect Picture Book Friday
Title: In Our Garden Author: Pat Zietlow Miller Illustrator: Melissa Crowton Publisher: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, March 2022 Ages: 4-8 Format/Genre: fiction Themes: homesickness, urban gardens, school, community, vegetables, growth, patience Opening: It’s a day. It’s a gray day. A breakfast-can-wait-day, don’t-be-late day. I look … Continue reading
Over, Bear! Under, Where? – Perfect Picture Book Friday
Title: Over, Bear! Under, Where? Author: Julie Hedlund Illustrator: Michael Slack Publisher: Philomel Books, 2021 Ages: 4-8 Format/Genre: narrative nonfiction Themes: wordplay, puns, compound words, fun, friendship Opening: Hi, Over. Hi, Under. Synopsis: Over and Under are two friends, and they’re enjoying a day at … Continue reading
