Mermaids on Parade

My Eric Carle Museum NEA Grant Visit

2011-11-14T19:43:00.027-05:00

What an honor to participate in the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art's very first National Endowment for the Arts grant. Read the press release.

The NEA grant brings three author-illustrators, Jerry Pinkney, Raul Colon, and myself to the Donahue School in Holyoke, Massachusetts.

The purpose of our visits is to guide second grade students to write and illustrate personal narratives in preparation for their very own exhibition at the gorgeous Eric Carle Museum in Amherst, MA in June 2012. The students were going to create 3D collages based on my book A CITY IS.

More about the museum here.

October 19 was Day 1 of my two day visit. I was facilitated by the museum's Curator of Education, Rosemary Agoglia. The day started very early and was spent presenting my author-illustrator elementary school programs in three classrooms sessions. At the end of each session the students shared what they saw in their city. I drew their images on a large pad, breaking down each idea into easy shapes they could draw and cut for collage.
I was very tired after the long day, but by a stroke of good luck I was invited to a meeting with the area's prestigious local authors and illustrators at the Richard Michelson Gallery in Northampton.

Luckily, my hotel was across the street. I signed 60 copies of SUPERMARKET while resting in bed and watching TV. My publisher, Holiday House, was incredibly generous to donate a copy of the book to each student in the second grade. Thank You, Holiday House!!

Day 2 of my visit was in the art room working with Art Teacher, Martha Mulcahy
and the Eric Carle Museum's Public Art Program Educator, Diana Mackenzie, pictured here with Margaret Bartley, Language Arts Media teacher at the Donahue School who helped bring the NEA grant alive.

There were lots of paper materials to choose from both the art room and the museum who donated neon papers and pre-cut shapes.

The young artists got busy.

When a student got stuck I helped out,

but most artists like to work on their own. I observed quietly and offered encouragement watching their art progress.

Here are the results from one day of art work.

After I went home the students followed up with another day on their collages. I cannot wait to see how it will all turn out for their exhibition at the museum.

THANK YOU, Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art and the M.A. Donahue School!

We are close to the Holiday Season. My FREE Coloring Page is a holiday detail from the book, SUPERMARKET. Here it is in the book.

And here is the sketch I used to create the original art. Click on the sketch to enlarge. Print and color! Enjoy! Happy Thanksgiving!

Photo Credits: Melanie Hope Greenberg Copyright 2011 and Diana Mackenzie/Eric Carle Museum Copyright 2011

School Visits: Authors and More in Austin, Dallas and Houston, Texas

2011-10-03T16:46:00.017-04:00

Hi Texans! It was a great honor to be selected as the artist for the 2011 Texas Library Association's Disaster Relief Fund Raffle. I got to meet so many great librarians at the TLA Conference in the Austin Convention Center. I was even interviewed on the Austin based Cynsations blog.

Thrilled to announce that I am now represented by Authors and More. Click the link to get to their website. Authors and More will represent my author and illustrator visits in the Austin, Dallas and Houston areas in Texas. Authors and More is a full service company providing authors, storytellers, illustrators, and musicians for schools and library programs.

I even have my own page on the Authors and More Blog.

I'd love to present at your school or via Skype.
My interactive workshops share simple step-by-step visual formulas for picture book creation, writing, art and structure. From idea to published book, bridge art with literacy. Grades K-5. Reading, Drawing, Q&A.

For honorarium and workshop details contact:
Carole Weitzel carole@authorsandmore.com
(512) 914-2596
Click on the links to get to the
Authors and More Website
Authors and More Blog

My donated original picture book art from "Supermarket" on the Jumbotron in the Austin Convention Center at the 2011 Texas Library Association Conference.
Photo credits: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg and Jeanette Larson

How I Create an Illustration 3 - SCIENCE

2011-09-15T21:39:00.018-04:00

If you are my Facebook Friend then you might have seen my Profile Pic for September 2011. What, you are not a FBF? Please join me on Facebook.

The "S" was from an illustration I created for Young Children Magazine. It was one of the letters that spelled S-C-I-E-N-C-E.

On my desk is displayed the different elements I used to create the letters and the art to go along with them. First, I traced letters from a template. Then, I measured and placed each letter in the middle of a box.

For the illustrations I widened each letter. My job is to capture images or a mood from the magazine articles.

The last step was to figure out the color scheme. I had to be very sensitive about how the letters worked all together and if they worked side by side.
I can always tell I'm done when I feel a sense of balance in my body.

Then the letters were published. Each article had one letter pop out.

Scroll down to see all the letters from SCIENCE.
BONUS Scroll down to the end and get a FREE Coloring Page!

Happy Fall and Back-To-School Everyone! xo Melanie

FREE Coloring page! Click to Enlarge and Print.

All Designs and Illustrations Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 2011

School Visits: Dayton Bookings

2011-09-14T16:32:00.013-04:00

2753 E. Pedigo Bay Drive, Bloomington, IN 47401
Contact: jean@daytonbookings.com (812) 824-5017 http://daytonbookings.com/

For author visits around the United States (except New York City) I work with a wonderful booking agency, Dayton Bookings, click for my listing. A full service agency specializing in award-winning authors who write for children, young adults and adults. The agency is committed to assisting schools, libraries and conference organizers in planning a successful author visit -- from contracting until completion. To request booking information, fees, or availability, either fill out and submit the form or call Dayton Bookings at (812) 824-5017.

" The kids were so engaged. She's very animated, and held their interest." — Maureen Vadala, Librarian

IN PERSON VISITS
My daily honorarium includes large or small group presentations as well as book-signings. In addition to the daily honorarium, I require reimbursement for travel, meal, and lodging expenses. Learn more about my Visits.

VIRTUAL VISITS
I also do virtual online visits. Online chats can offer options to more remote schools where the costs associated with an in-person visit might be prohibitive. Virtual visits tend to be more conversational so please be sure that students/staff are prepared with questions for the author.  I will be happy to sign bookplates either ahead of time or after the chat, so students will still have the option to purchase signed books.  Learn more about Virtual Visits.

My website displays my Picture Books, Picture Book Art, Biography, Author-Illustrator Visits, and Contact information.

Jean Dayton buys my art during Book Expo at the ABFFE auction. 2753 E. Pedigo Bay Drive, Bloomington, IN 47401
Contact: jean@daytonbookings.com (812) 824-5017 http://daytonbookings.com/

Photos Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 2011

Second Visit to the Eric Carle Museum

2011-07-31T21:42:00.017-04:00

My second visit to the gorgeous Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art was much busier than my first visit. Not only did I present a Story Time in the museum's library and sign bunches of books, I also presented a literary craft workshop with young students in the Art Room.

They jumped right into getting their hands busy.

Here are the beautiful 3D collages they created. Some were literal.

Others not so much. This boy told me the psychedelic strip of paper he glued to the top was the second Sun in the composition. I love that!

This young artist followed her own spirit. Love that, too!

This boy mixed the media using markers. So creative.

After my programs I had some time to hang out with Rebel Bookseller, Andy Laties, the manager of the museum's bookshop. I was very fortunate that Andy provided my car lifts to and from the Springfield Amtrak station. Talking shop with Andy is always enlightening and appreciated.

With the museum's librarian and bookshop manager.

The shop is stocked with Eric Carle everything. But it's also creatively stocked with everything else. For book lovers, there's a vast array of children's books, graphic novels, and kid-lit related cross over to adult books. Greeting cards, toys, and plush dolls are colorfully displayed.

Thank You Eric Carle Museum for selling my books in your shop and on your website!

For art lovers there are signed prints and limited edition lithographs and fun minimalist sculptures.

Who?

You!
Visit the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art!

All Photos Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 2011

PS 250 Brooklyn Asks Questions

2011-05-22T20:44:00.009-04:00

On May 20, 2011 I gave presentations to second graders at PS 250 in Brooklyn. Ms Steinlauf's class had adorable hand drawn mermaid bookmarks which cleverly had some questions written on them as well. There was not enough time to answer all the questions before the program was over. So I promised to answer their questions on my blog. Thanks PS 250!!

Q: How do these ideas pop in to you?
MHG: Many times I get ideas from what I see or take part of in my own community. My books are about places to eat, or to do laundry, visiting the beach, and even celebrating holidays and traditions.

Q: How do you picture the Book?
MHG: Read and see the process of how I create picture books here.

Q: Have you ever written a song book?
MHG: No, because I have never written any songs. I enjoy making up stories.

Q: Do you write books? How many books did you write?
MHG: I've written 6 of the 16 books I've illustrated that have been published. See all my books here.

Q: Are the things you write are ture (true)?
MHG: Yes! Many of my books are based on what I see or have experienced in real life. Even when illustrating for other authors I paint what I see around me. For example, I marched in a Mermaid Parade. Real New York City views are displayed in A CITY IS. I shop at the supermarket in SUPERMARKET. I've been riding the subway since I was a little girl. ON MY STREET is based on Brooklyn Heights.

Q: What class were you in as a little girl?
MHG: I went to PS 93, PS 119, Jr High School 125, then graduated from James Monroe High School. All the schools were in the Bronx. I skipped the 3rd grade, the last semester of High School and graduated at 16 years old.

Q: Have you ever wrote a book about the bronx?
MHG: I wrote and illustrated a book about my true story of my father's luncheonette in the Bronx. It is called, MY FATHER'S LUNCHEONETTE.

How I Create an Illustration 2

2011-03-13T22:35:00.016-04:00

Muriel Feldshuh was kind enough to invite me to participate, for a second time, in her traveling children's picture book artist quilt project. She sent a kit containing a lovely note, a blank square of muslin, packing, and a self addressed, stamped return envelope. How could I refuse?

The first muslin square I painted is in the red quilt above. Feldshuh's quilts exhibit in galleries throughout the United States.

For the new quilt, consisting of Brooklyn based illustrators, I chose an icon that both represents Brooklyn and my picture books. This is a sketch of a book cover test for MERMAIDS ON PARADE. The publisher thought it was "too old" for the age level of my book.
I still love this sketch and I've wanted to use it somewhere else. So, I did.

I work with a copy machine. I cut out extras and fixed some lines. Then copied again. There's my outline.

I copy once more, and experiment with paint on the paper first. I discovered my glitter nail polish made a quick drying sparkle over the paint. Yippie, no glitter mess.
Using a lightbox, I trace the mermaid's outline onto the muslin square with pencil. I lay down shapes of pure colors.

Now I add some details to the under layers of paint.

I add purple pen out line and carefully brush in the glitter. I do not want paint or glitter to spill onto the muslin outside the mermaid outline.

Remember to always ventilate while using the nail polish in large areas. I painted by an open window.

Finished art.

Mermaid Art : Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Artists in My Book / Sue Schmitt Interview

2011-03-11T20:22:00.013-05:00

Writer Sue Schmitt and I both attended the SCBWI National Conference in August 2005. It was my first time at this conference in Los Angeles and I was there on faculty. When I spotted Sue she was in a mermaid costume for the Saturday night Beach Bash party.

I had a picture book project idea brewing about the Coney Island Mermaid Parade. We took this photo for reference.

When I sold the book, Sue became the Mom character and appears in almost every scene.

Sue Schmitt is also a mother, children's musical theater producer, and philanthropist - she's passionate about helping children and families globally. Co-founder of an AIDS orphanage in Haiti, she has also traveled to China helping medically challenged orphans, and set up a birthing clinic in rural India. Sue's writing is inspired by local children with medical issues. Schmitt's first book, "Even Superheroes Get Diabetes" was created when a 3 year old neighbor was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

Sue kindly answered a few questions for the blog.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?
SS: It would be Waverly Lumens.

Q: What do mermaids mean to you?
SS: Mermaids, fairies, flying pigs, and happy endings inspire me, as do all things that seem impossible, fantastical, and magical. I have tackled that which seems personally improbable if not impossible, such as singing in RENT on Broadway (I'm not much of a singer), running the LA Marathon (I'd never run more than a few miles), writing books (a childhood dream that always felt out of reach), and finding my own Prince Charming (despite quite a few frogs).

Q: Why did you dress up as a mermaid at the SCBWI party?
SS: The SCBWI party was a beach party theme. Mermaids are such beautiful and mythical creatures, and I thought that a children's book conference filled with authors who create such beings certainly needed one at the party. Plus, how often does one get the chance to be a mermaid? Not enough in my opinion!

Q: What are you currently working on?
SS: I am finishing work on my second book, "The Princess and the Peanut". It's a royally allergic fairytale, that grew out of compassion toward a friend's kindergartner with a severe peanut allergy. My newest project is "Even Pirates Get Leukemia". This book evolved after my daughter's playmate battled and won a fight against leukemia.

Thanks, Sue!

Art and Photo: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 2005 and 2008

TLA, Cybils, New School and FREE Coloring Pages

2011-02-21T17:37:00.012-05:00

Yeeha! I've got great news to share!
I'm the selected artist for the Texas Library Association's 2011 Disaster Relief Fund raffle. I've donated my original gouache illustration called "Space Age", 8.5" x 11.5", from the picture book SUPERMARKET by Kathleen Krull (Holiday House, 2001). SUPERMARKET is now celebrating its 10th year in print!

For a $5.00 raffle ticket or 5 tickets for $20.00 you can own original picture book art worth hundreds of dollars, and help libraries at the same time. See the Art, Get a Raffle Ticket and Learn about the TLA Disaster Relief Fund here.
The raffle will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2011 during the TLA Annual Conference in Austin. You need not be a librarian or at the conference in person to win.

My other great news is that I lucked out and was selected to judge the 2010 Cybils Awards in the Fiction Picture Book Category. And the winner is..."Interrupting Chicken" by David Ezra Stein! Congratulations!
The Cybils awards are given each year by bloggers for the year's best children's and young adult titles. The panel organizer was the Mother Reader herself, Pam Coughlan! And my fellow blogging judges panel consisted of Becky Bilby, Katie Davis, Danielle Smith and Tess Hafner Goldwasser, who also wrote the winning book's official review.
Many other bloggers spread the word here, and there.

Last but not least I presented a Power Point program at the New School's Writing for Children Forum moderated by Deborah Brodie.

I want to keep the February Valentine Love going by offering some FREE Coloring Pages that feature hearts. Click on the images to enlarge, print and color! Enjoy! Love, Melanie xox

Heart Balloons
Heart Peacocks
Heart Garden
Heart Ice Cream Cones

Color and Black & White Art: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

2010 Wrap-Up

2011-01-07T22:08:00.036-05:00

2010 went by way too fast and my List of Links really grew.

In 2010 MERMAIDS ON PARADE was officially on the map, A Literary Map of Brooklyn.

In 2010 I submitted picture book proposals,

and wrote articles,
Talking Story Blog
Hunger Mt. VCFA Journal of the Arts
HMHnyc
My Word Playground
Momasphere
SCBWI NY Metro "Say YES with Dan Yaccarino"

and presented Children's Lit programs.

Photo from the NYCDOE School Library Conference

In 2010 I was interviewed by The Got Story Countdown.

Some people even wrote about me here and there.

In 2010 I became a curator and organized the Women's History Month Celebration,

and signed books under the Manhattan Bridge at the Dumbo Parents Organization Stoop Sale.

In 2010 more neighborhood stores sold my books.

In 2010 I took part in Kelly Light's Ripple Auction, Dan Santat's 826LA Auction,

and the Dumbo Arts Festival representing Superfine. I also read and signed books at the annual Atlantic Antic representing the store Gumbo.

In 2010 the Drawn In Brooklyn Exhibition began. I signed books for the Brooklyn Public Library at the Brooklyn Book Festival,

presented a mermaid tail making crafts program,

was in a video (see it here),

signed my books for the Drawn In Brooklyn Family Day,

and was completely thrilled when the Time Out Kids NY editor said my name on TV during the CBS Morning News. She also said that MERMAIDS ON PARADE was her "favorite" book!

Our exhibition art was in the New York Daily News and the New York Times,

and there were even exhibition posters down in the subway ;)

In 2010 I also took part in the Public Library's 24 Hour Read-In,

the Halloween Librarian Zombie march across the Brooklyn Bridge,

and The Brooklyn Museum Children's Book Fair.

In 2010 I was a celebrity judge.

To wrap up 2010 I signed books at the Brooklyn Friends Winter Festival.

I am extremely grateful for 2010. To start 2011 off right I rested!

Here's a FREE Coloring Page to download that displays refreshed energy! Click to enlarge, print and color!
Happy New Year Everyone! May All Your Dreams Come True!

All photos: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg
Celebrity judges photo credit: David Winter

How I Create an Illustration

2010-11-29T11:02:00.017-05:00

Every year since 1998 I've been asked to illustrate articles in a teacher magazine from NAEYC (National Association of Educators for Young Children). Here's how I created an illustration for their December/January 2011 issue.

First, I read the magazine articles I am going to illustrate to understand the theme and get ideas. Then I sketch some doodles.

I drew the children in a circle for the reason that the articles discussed inclusion in the classroom. Circles have no beginnings or ends, simply a visual way to relay that everyone belongs.

Before I paint, I refine the sketches and an art director must approve of them. I might also have to go back and re-do or tweak my sketches.

When my sketches are approved I create color samples where I can experiment.

Experiments over! Now on to finished art.

Illustration printed in magazine!

Extra Bonus! A Free Coloring page! Click to enlarge, then download to enjoy in your homes or classrooms!

All Illustrations copyright 2011 Melanie Hope Greenberg

"Drawn In Brooklyn" Curator Interview- John Bemelmans Marciano

2010-10-18T22:36:00.013-04:00

I met John Bemelmans Marciano last year. We were introduced by Barbara Wing who had been my curator for a solo picture book illustration exhibition at Brooklyn Central Library in Spring 2009. Working with Barbara Wing was a fantastic experience. I knew an exhibition she and John were cooking up called, "Drawn In Brooklyn", featuring many Brooklyn picture book illustrators, was going to be exciting fun.

John's grandfather was Ludwig Bemelmans of Madeline fame.
John now writes and paints Madeline in the 21 Century. Marciano said it took a long time to capture his grandfather's art style. His latest Madeline book is called "Madeline at the White House". Besides Madeline, Marciano also writes and illustrates picture books such as "Harold's Tail", "Delilah", and "There's a Dolphin in the Grand Canal!". John is very excited about his newest books for Bloomsbury USA. They are called "Anonyponymous" and "Toponynity".

Marciano lives in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn with his wife Andromache, daughter Galatea, and cats Maud and Liddy.

I am so thrilled that John Bemelmans Marciano and his co-curators Barbara Wing and Paquita Campoverde of Brooklyn Central Library have agreed to provide a history of what goes on in front of and behind the scenes of their wonderful exhibition, "Drawn In Brooklyn".
In Part 1, we talk with John.

Q: How did you get the idea for curating this show?

JBM: My desire to do a show that celebrated the illustrator comes from my experience going around the country to schools and bookstores and constantly being surprised at how people are fascinated by my having written books but generally not caring that I did the pictures too. I think because most books are about text and only text, people are conditioned to think about authors, whereas in picture books it is the illustrator telling the story just as much as the writer.

Q: What did you discover about the Brooklyn picture book arts community while curating this show?

JBM: That it is even more vast than I realized! Also, that it contains some of the nicest and most talented people I have ever met, and that many of them--like me--have been craving a community. Most of us work alone in our studios spread out all over the borough, and the opportunity for us to share our work with each other was for many the most exciting thing about the show, and I believe that desire is apparent in the exhibition. Not just in the care each artist took in deciding which of their work they wanted to present, but in the Youth Wing portion of the show, where illustrators opened up their sketchbooks and put their process on display.

Q: How did the multi-media aspect the exhibition arise? (There's a film, a festival, live presentations and workshops, illustrator's process besides the original picture book illustrations).

JBM: Largely from Barbara and Paquita, and the amazing people they work with at the library. As an illustrator myself, I felt the need to protect my fellows from being asked to do too much, but as it turned out everyone was thrilled at what they were being asked to do! What I especially learned from this experience is the importance of large public institutions, and the idea that people want to be involved in something larger than themselves. In the do-it-yourself, privatize everything age, when real spaces are being replaced by websites, I think it's vital to rally around organizations like the Brooklyn Public Library.

Q: What are you currently working on?

JMB: I am currently working on a chapter book about the richest, worst little boy in the world.

Q: If you had a Mermaid name what would it be?

JMB: Lorenzo! Or Adolphus.

Thanks, John!

Art: Copyright John Marciano

"Drawn In Brooklyn" Exhibition

2010-09-23T11:30:00.020-04:00

"Drawn In Brooklyn" in Time Out Kids and in Captial New York

I'm in a brand new exhibition at Brooklyn Central Library. It's called "Drawn in Brooklyn". In October, I'll be giving FREE programs at the Central Library
10 Grand Army Plaza 718-230-2100
Show Schedule: Sun 1-5pm; M-Th 9-9 F & Sat 10 - 6

A festival and exhibition of children's book art curated by John Bemelmans Marciano ("Madeline"). The exhibition features 34 illustrators who live and work in Brooklyn, from the most exciting newcomers in publishing to the legends of the business. The exhibition showcases over a hundred pieces of art.

Original illustrations from my books MERMAIDS ON PARADE, A CITY IS, and DOWN IN THE SUBWAY.

I'll be visiting the Ryder Branch Library on October 20, 2010. And an author visit with a visual power point program in the Dweck Auditorium on October 28, 2010.

At the opening reception there was a beautiful welcoming table with exhibition programs, bookmarks and information.

Co-curators John Marciano and Barbara Wing gave speeches.

The illustrators from "Drawn In Brooklyn"

Susan Straub from the Read to Me Program celebrated picture book art with my hero, Diane Dillon, illustrator of so many award winning books.

I'm with David Mowery, Division Manager of the Brooklyn Central Youth Wing and my art patron :)

Michelle Lynch, my intern from Pratt, a senior majoring in picture book illustration is with Andrea Vaughn, Brooklyn Central librarian fantastique!

Blog Diary from my solo exhibition at Brooklyn Central Library in Spring 2009. Here is a Facebook photo album from "Ordinary Into Extraordinary".

Photos copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 2010
Group Photo: Al Pereira 2010

Melanie's List of Links

2010-08-21T22:29:00.069-04:00

I've done all the work...so you don't have to.
Here they are! Weblinks to learn about my books, art, career, and events. All in one place! And this list will always grow. My heartfelt thanks to everyone for supporting my books and my art!

MY AUTHOR VISITS
Elementary Schools
Hope Floats
Megan Kimball PS 58 '09
Megan Kimball PS 58 '11
Blog Diary PS 58 Residency '09
NYC School Help
PS 250
PS 370
Brooklyn Arts Council
Library
Ferguson Library CT
Museums
Eric Carle 1
Eric Carle 2
Eric Carle Museum Sells My Books
Eric Carle Museum Bookstore Shout Out
Professional Development/University
New School Forum Feb 15, 2011
New School Facebook
New School Event Link
New School Free Press
Brooklyn Arts Council
Daniel Warren Elementary
Read To Me Program
Conferences
SCBWI LA'08 Deborah Mori
SCBWI LA'08 Ken Min
SCBWI LA'08 Mike Baker
SCBWI LA'08 Alice Pope
SCBWI TX'09
SCBWI NYC '09 Susan Raab
SCBWI NYC '09 Liz Burns
SCBWI NY Metro '10 Marketing to the Max
SCBWI NY Metro
SCBWI NY B. Ehrentreu-Metro Examiner
SCBWI NY Metro S. Dunlap-Red Room

MY BOOKS
Picturing Books
A City Is
Storied Cities Book Giveaway
Brooklyn Eagle
Brooklyn Women's Exchange
Bowery Boogie Blog
Heights Books
Unica Home
Nancy Keane's Booktalks
Brooklyn GO
Mermaids on Parade
Literary Map of Brooklyn
Storied Cities Blog
Amazon Reviews
Shop Exit 9
Yahoo
Posterband
Momtrends
PBS Parents Summer Reading List
Summer Edward
Playthings
UP Authors
SLJ- Fuse#8 Blog
Leaving Shangrila
Mom and Kiddo
Picture Book Lists by Topic
Planet Esme 1
Planet Esme 2
Lee Wind
Tiny Reader
OC Family
Down In The Subway
Star Bright Books Blog
Book Nut
Picture Book Junkies
Good Morning, Digger
Mom To Mom Forum
Supermarket
Holiday House Celebrates 75
The book on Holiday House website

ARTICLES I'VE WRITTEN
Talking Story Blog - Craft Prompt
Hunger Mt / VCFA "Passion for the Picture Book"
Hunger Mt / VCFA "Diversity In Picture Books"
HMHnyc "Diversity in Picture Books"
HMHnyc "Transitions"
My Word Playground "Writing Sea-crets"
Momasphere "My Mother's Work"
SCBWI NY Metro "Diamond in the Slush"
SCBWI NY Metro "Say YES with Dan Yaccarino"
SCBWI NY Metro "What Makes a Caldecott"
SCBWI NY Metro "Getting the Gigs"

MY ART, WRITING, BLOG, AWARDS, HONORS
Got Story Countdown - Interview Questions 1-10
Got Story Countdown - Full interview
Mom Blog Network - Interview
Wordswimmer - Interview
Five on Friday - Interview
Mom and Kiddo Blog - Article
HMHnyc - Article
Park Slope Patch - Article
Summer Edward - Article
Self Absorbed Boomer - Article
The Dabbling Mum Blog -Article
Alex Battles MySpace
100 Best Book Blogs Award
Brooklyn Heights Blog 10 Award
Cybils Awards 2010 Picture Book Fiction Judge
Cybils 2010 Finalists
Cybils Kids Book Blog
Cybils News8 New Haven
Kidlitosphere Central - Publishing Bloggers
Literary Family - Mermaids On Parade blog
DumboNYC - Mermaids On Parade blog

MY EXHIBITIONS
Brooklyn Central Library
“Ordinary into Extraordinary” 2009
Artist Statement
Melanie's Blog Diary
Urban Baby
Brooklyn Eagle
Brooklyn Central Library
"Drawn In Brooklyn" 2010
BPL Exhibition Website
BPL Events Calendar
New York Times
Time Out New York Kids
NY Daily News
A Child Grows In Brooklyn
Capital New York
HMHnyc Drawn In Brooklyn
John Marciano Interview
"Drawn In Brooklyn" Crafting & Meet the Author
CC's Kidz Blog
Mommy Poppins
Prospect Heights Patch
"Drawn In Brooklyn" Videos
Melanie's BPL Video
NY1
RIPPLE Auction 2010
Whale
826LA Auction
Publisher's Weekly
YouTube
Website
Nucleus Gallery
Huffington Post
OTHER
NYer Magazine's Passport to the Arts '08

EVENTS
Brooklyn
Book Court May 2011
Book Court May 2011
Brooklyn Book Fest '08
Brooklyn Book Fest '09
Brooklyn Book Fest '10 Fuse#8
BKLYN DESIGNS Brooklyn Eagle
BKLYN DESIGNS
BKLYN DESIGNS Dumbo NYC
Brooklyn Women's Exchange
Atlantic Antic Brooklyn Eagle
Atlantic Antic Brooklyn Hts Blog
Atlantic Antic Organization
Atlantic Antic Video
Atlantic Antic Miss Brooklyn Blog
7th Heaven
Atlantic Avenue Artwalk '06
Atlantic Avenue Artwalk 6/5/10
Atlantic Avenue Window Judge 2010
Women's Exchange
A Child Grows in Brooklyn
Keelie Sheridan
Sharon Lerner
Momtrends NYC
Fireproof Gallery 1
Fireproof Gallery 2
Literacy
BPL 24 Hour Read-In
Reach Out and Read
Literacy Quilt
Literary Quilt 2
Women's History Month Celebration 2010
Walking in Public
Brooklyn Heights Blog
Aileen Leijten
Mermaids on Parade Blog 1
Mermaids On Parade Blog 2
Miss Brooklyn Blog
Found In Brooklyn
DumboNYC
World News
Selina Alko
Examiner
Barbara Ehrentreu
Red River Writers Radio
The Literary Family
A Child Grows In Brooklyn

Photo credit: Melanie Hope Greenberg 2010

Free Coloring Page/ School Visits

2010-07-29T12:48:00.007-04:00

I've been using my indoor time wisely during this very hot summer creating new book projects to publish.

I am also getting ready for the Fall. I'd love to visit your school to present my author-illustrator programs or a residency.
I've been recommended by a schools expert.
I also give professional development workshops and present at literature conferences for adult writers, artists, librarians, educators and booksellers.

Please contact me melanie@melaniehopegreenberg.com
For schools outside of New York City please contact Dayton Bookings.

During the heat wave I work by writing, illustrating, selling my remainder books (books which go Out of Print but are still brand new), or my prints and original art, getting ready for new exhibitions, book signings, panels and conferences.

With so much going on until the Fall it gets harder to blog. So I extend some relaxing fun with two new FREE Coloring Pages.
Click on the page to enlarge. Print and Color. Enjoy! It's Summer!

I Love Parades.
I Love Carnivals.

Images: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 2010
Photo Credit: Sarah Portlock Copyright

Librarians, Bookstores and FREE Coloring Page

2010-07-12T12:39:00.011-04:00

I went to Washington DC to attend the ALA or the American Library Association's annual conference. I stayed at my friend Virpi's apartment and passed the White House a few times.

I attended some parties, walked the exhibit floor and met many of my colleagues. I Love Librarians!

I also love bookstores! On July 10 I read and signed books at a Beach Party for the brand new independent bookstore called Boulevard Books and Cafe in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.

I felt warmly welcomed by the neighborhood community.

And signed almost all the books the store had in stock. Thanks!

Books and art make us aware of the world we live in. Please keep nature's world alive. Color the beautiful ocean and all her creatures for FREE. Click on the image to enlarge and download. Have fun!

Photo Credits: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg,Jeanette Larson and Tatiana Nicoli

Spring into Summer

2010-06-22T16:03:00.012-04:00

Wow it's Summer already! The past month was incredibly busy.

At the end of May, Book Expo America (BEA) came to New York City. I was lucky and helped set up original illustrations and attend the Association of Booksellers for Children's (ABC) auction, dinner, party and award ceremonies. Bookstore owner, Tami Furlong, helped me out. How delightful to see ABC's Executive Director, Kristen McLean again. Kristen visited "Ordinary into Extraordinary", my picture book illustration exhibition in the Youth Wing of the Brooklyn Central Library in spring 2009.

Met Jean Dayton in person for the first time. She is my school and conference booking agent at Dayton Bookings.

At the beginning of June, author Susanna Reich and I presented a professional workshop called "Marketing to the Max" for the SCBWI NY Metro chapter, my local chapter. I've been serving on this regional chapter's steering committee for almost two decades. My part of the talk was a visual Power Point show.

To prepare for the annual Mermaid Parade I gave three presentations. First, Mermaid Tail Making at The Moxie Spot. Then a book reading at Bluestockings Books and a school visit in Brooklyn.

I celebrated the Summer Solstice and the opening of the ocean at the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island. There were many creative interpretations of mermaids and water creatures on a bright sunny day with a delicious cool sea breeze. I got to relax on the beach.

Happy Summer Everyone!

Photo Credits: 2010 Melanie Hope Greenberg and Patricia Keeler

FREE Coloring Page

2010-05-17T14:09:00.005-04:00

I am continuing FREE downloads of sketches from my books that you can color. Enjoy!

This sketch is from a book that I illustrated called, "Love is Like a Crayon Because It Comes In All Colors" by David Heller, published by Villard Books/ Random House. Click on it to enlarge and print.

All images: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 1993

Book Weekend

2010-05-15T14:14:00.009-04:00

On Saturday May 8, 2010 I read and signed my picture books at a kid-friendly book party.

Author and journalist for women's issues, Sharon Lerner, invited me. Her new book is titled, "The War on Moms".

The night before Sharon's book party I went to another party for the 8th Annual BKLYN DESIGNS show that "marries Brooklyn's talent, commitment, creativity and commerce".

With fabulous Karen Auster from Auster Events who produces the annual show at the St. Ann's Warehouse in DUMBO, Brooklyn.

On Sunday, May 9, I read and signed my books at the BKLYN DESIGNS KID'S LOUNGE. I sat on a handmade bench, surrounded by adorable children and their parents in the Argington space.

The kids sat on an Argington organic blanket and fun oversized pillows from Iglooplay. Some other kids had a blast running around, climbing, and peeking at my reading from the Casa Kids' bunkbeds.

Thanks to all for a book loving weekend!
Photo Credits: Copyright 2010 Melanie Hope Greenberg
Argington: Alison Hamerstadt

Mother's Day Weekend Events

2010-05-03T11:47:00.011-04:00

Author Sharon Lerner is having a Kid- Friendly Book Party and invited me to read and sign my books. For Book lovers large and small!

** Saturday, May 8, 2010 3:30 pm
33 Flatbush Avenue, 3rd Fl
(That’s PowderKeg, Brooklyn’s new workspace for women writers)
A book party featuring the band Rolie Polie Guacamole, kids book author Melanie Hope Greenberg, plus cupcakes (and book signing, too)!

Please come celebrate the release of “The War on Moms: On Life in a Family-Unfriendly Nation,” a new book by Brooklyn writer Sharon Lerner.

** Sunday May 9, 2010 1pm – 2pm
St. Ann’s Warehouse • 38 Water St. Dumbo, Brooklyn
Kid’s Story Time at Iglooplay in BKLYN DESIGNS™ Kids Lounge.

 Bring the whole family to the BKLYN DESIGNS™ KIDS’ LOUNGE on Mother’s Day and hear Brooklyn Heights resident, Melanie Hope Greenberg, read from her books! Melanie has published 16 children’s picture books — “Mermaids on Parade” (Putnam) takes place at Coney Island. “A City Is” (Holt) are poems Melanie illustrated for Brooklyn’s first poet laureate. “Good Morning, Digger” (Viking) is a construction book for urban children.

Thanks to Karen Auster, Iglooplay, and Argington Children's Furniture!

Only the Blog Knows Brooklyn describes the event.

It's Earth Day * Go Green

2010-04-21T11:22:00.009-04:00

Even before the first Earth Day in 1970, I was very aware of preserving the Earth's natural resources. My favorite class in J.H. School was Earth Science.

I mentioned the idea for an ecology book to my agent. The agent mentioned the idea to green writer, Kathy Krull.
IT'S MY EARTH, TOO was published in 1992 by Doubleday Books for Young Readers. The book was made in an environmentally friendly manner. It was printed on recycled paper with soybean oil inks, there was no paper dust jacket, and water-soluble glues were used in the binding.

The Children's Defense Fund reprinted the cover art of IT'S MY EARTH, TOO as a poster. I was selected by the organization's founder and president, Marian Wright Edelman.

Here is a FREE Download to color in honor of Earth Day!

All Art is Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Signed Prints from MERMAIDS ON PARADE

2010-04-15T20:37:00.038-04:00

* Double-sided autographed Color prints
* Reversible prints fit into 8 1/2" x 11" frames
* $35.00 shipping included
* Use "Buy Prints" PayPal Button

Set #1 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #2 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #3 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #4 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #5 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #6 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #7 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #8 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #9 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

Set #10 $35.00

Two prints for the price of one. Two images are reversible. Each side fits into an 8 1/2" x 11" frame.

All Art: Copyright 2008 Melanie Hope Greenberg

Norman Rosten

2010-04-12T19:40:00.017-04:00

April is Poetry Month!

I feel so fortunate to have met and worked with so many talented people along my life's path. Brooklyn Poet Laureate Norman Rosten was one of these wonderful people.

I was just breaking into children's books in 1987 and Cousin Arthur's was the local children's bookstore in Brooklyn Heights. It was also a place for grown up happenings and community gatherings. The owners, Bob and Barbara Tramonte, were poets. They also owned a small poetry press. Readings at Cousin Arthur's listed some of the top poets in NYC. In 1987, the idea for the Children's Book Illustrators Group (CBIG- New York City) was born at this bookstore. I became it's first President.

Local author, playwright and poet, Norman Rosten, was a frequent visitor to Cousin Arthur's. I had read his memoir about his friend, the actress Marilyn Monroe.

Norman and I became friends during the time I designed a book of his poems, 'Songs for Patricia'. The Tramonte’s poetry press reissued it in 1988. When my second children’s book, MY FATHER'S LUNCHEONETTE, was released in 1991, Norman asked if I would read some of his children’s poems for possible publication. Being new in children's books that offer was incredibly generous and encouraging.

A CITY IS had many detours on it's journey to publication. It was rejected a few times before Norman passed away in 1995. It finally sold to Henry Holt, one of his original publishers. His poem are simple and timeless. Memories of Norman alway stay with me.

Here is an early sketch I did for the "Pocket Park" poem that never made into the book. You can download and color it.

Purchase an autographed copy of the book A CITY IS.

Art from A CITY IS Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg 2004

I Love the Library Kids

2010-04-05T19:07:00.004-04:00

I presented an author-illustrator workshop at the Hamilton Fish Library branch in lower Manhattan. I met the "library kids", young people from kindergarten to sixth grades who frequent the library and attend the workshops. Librarian, Sarah Belanich, along with a saavy library guard rounded up the library kids and roped them into the meeting room. Today was part one of a two part visit.

Picture book process broken down with a handout to take home to continue practicing.

Kids of all ages love to imagine and express.

Photos Copyright 2010 Melanie Hope Greenberg

Women's History Month Celebration

2010-03-29T10:47:00.014-04:00

The opening event of the Women's History Month Celebration started with an original picture book illustration exhibition at Superfine.

Selina Alko, Miriam Cohen, Pat Cummings, Aileen Leijten, Meghan McCarthy and I shared the Superfine gallery wall during March 2010.

My illustration was from the book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Aileen Leijten's exhibited an illustration from her book,
HUGGING HOUR. She chats with BPL librarian Marilyn Ackerman and her author-illustrator husband, John Rocco.

Selina Alko exhibited an illustration from her book, I'M YOUR PEANUT BUTTER BIG BROTHER.

Lots of children attended and went home with signed books.

Everyone was treated with a special visit by Miss Brooklyn 2009, Keelie Sheridan. The children could not stop talking to her. Keelie was interviewed on this blog in October 2009.

Here are two amazing women I feel lucky to be connected to. How fantastic that Miss Brooklyn extended her support to the Women's History Month Celebration. Keelie Sheridan's platform is Arts in Education for all as part of the Miss Brooklyn/Miss America Scholarship Fund. And Tanya Rynd, an owner of Superfine, who 'got' my vision for a grassroots community art and literature event and helped to make it come true. THANKS!

With Heather Scott of Scholastic.

Deloris McCullough from Brooklyn Central Library with a parent.

Uldis Skrodelis from Brooklyn Heights branch library.

I want to thank all the participating author-illustrators, bookstores, and Superfine, as well as bloggers, friends, artists, writers, students, parents, librarians, publishing professionals, patrons and well wishers for their support. It takes a community to create a picture book. THANK YOU!

Photo Credits: Melanie Hope Greenberg and Michael Santangelo Copyright 2010

Montessori Students Create Theater from My Picture Book

2010-02-21T20:08:00.011-05:00

Katie Kovach and I were introduced via email through mutual friend, musician Alex Battles. She and I later connected on Facebook where I took special note of her alice FOUND photo galleries. Katie, a talented photographer, takes emotionally energetic photos of local bands.

Best of all, Katie and I connect through Arts in Education via my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE. Katie is the drama teacher for 2-5 year olds at Montessori School of Manhattan. She covers acting, writing, set design, costume design and props. They even work on Shakespeare and opera!

Katie sometimes works with picture books as a source of drama exercises. She said "Your book was perfect because it centers around an event with a specific place, has beautiful illustrations that the kids are drawn to (making it easier for them to note things about the place to include in their designs), and it is local. Several of my students began to tell me about their own trips to Coney Island. And of course the Mermaid Parade in general is so fantastical and dramatic, it's like it's own theater piece".

Enjoy some of Katie's students set designs for MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Thanks, Katie and Students!

Photo Credit: Alex Battles

Artists in my Book/ Evan Reynolds Interview

2010-02-19T09:43:00.000-05:00

I know Brooklyn artist Evan Reynolds from Superfine. He marched as a Neptune with the Superfine Dinettes in the 2006 Mermaid Parade. And, he's painted in my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Can you spot Evan? He is #53.

Evan likes many different forms of art and he uses as many as possible to create short movies. For many years Evan played music in bands. He plays drums, bass, guitar; he has made recordings where he plays all the instruments and sings all the vocals. For his last short movie Evan made sculptures, painted them, filmed them, edited them, and created the music. To Evan this was a lot of fun, so he is in the process of doing it all again.

Here is a link to Evan's highly creative short movie,"Todt/Toad".

Evan was generous to answer a few questions.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

ER: Triton

Q: What does Coney Island mean to you?

ER: Hot Dogs, the Cyclone, the Wonder Wheel, Ruby's, the parade, old Russian men sunning themselves, and just freaks in general, but also New York's beach. If you go there on July Fourth (which I have done) there are easily a million people there. It's pretty amazing just to see that many people in one place.

Q: Why do you enjoy marching in the Mermaid Parade?

ER: It's a freaky party... all the strange ones come out... it celebrates the impossible...It's a majestic tinfoil hat!

Q: What are you currently working on?

ER: I am working on my second short film called "Frog (swimming)"

Thanks! p.s. today is his 40th Birthday! Happy Birthday, Evan!

Photo Credit: Evan Reynolds
Illustration detail from MERMAIDS ON PARADE
Buy MERMAIDS ON PARADE

Brooklyn Celebrates It's Author-Illustrators

2010-01-18T20:33:00.033-05:00

NEW! Miss Brooklyn, Keelie Sheridan, has joined our celebration.

An online article from Examiner.com.

This idea was in my mind for a long, long time. Last Fall my idea caught the fancy of a few others who agreed to become a creative collective.

Our collective is made up of professional women who leave an historical record in the field of children's literature and art. And the merchants who work alongside the author-illustrators bringing their books and art to the community.

March 2010 is our WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION!

Six Author-Illustrators.
Three Bookstores and a Gallery.
Book readings and signings.
An Exhibition.

Selina Alko
Miriam Cohen
Pat Cummings
Melanie Hope Greenberg
Aileen Leijten
Meghan McCarthy

Book Court 163 Court Street, Brooklyn
Greenlight Books 686 Fulton Street, Brooklyn
P.S. Bookshop 147A Front Street, Brooklyn
Superfine 126 Front Street, Brooklyn

March 2010 Women's History Month Celebration!
contact: Melanie Hope Greenberg Author-Illustrator

* Mar. 4 Thur. 6-8pm SUPERFINE EXHIBITION - OPENING RECEPTION
Artwork from picture books by illustrator/authors SELINA ALKO, MIRIAM COHEN, PAT CUMMINGS, MELANIE HOPE GREENBERG, AILEEN LEIJTEN, and MEGHAN MCCARTHY Exhibition: March 2- March 14
LOCATION: 126 Front St. (DUMBO) Brooklyn NY 11201 718.243.9005

* Mar. 6 Sat. 10:30am GREENLIGHT BOOKS presents SELINA ALKO and AILEEN LEIJTEN
LOCATION: 686 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217 INFO: 718.246.0200

* Mar. 13 Sat. 10:30am GREENLIGHT BOOKS presents MELANIE HOPE GREENBERG and MIRIAM COHEN
LOCATION: 686 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217 INFO: 718.246.0200

* Mar. 14 Sun. 11am - Noon BOOKCOURT presents a panel discussion featuring illustrator/authors SELINA ALKO, MIRIAM COHEN, PAT CUMMINGS, MELANIE HOPE GREENBERG, AILEEN LEIJTEN, and MEGHAN MCCARTHY.
LOCATION: 163 Court Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 INFO: 718.875.3677

* Mar. 20 Sat. Time: TBA GREENLIGHT BOOKS presents MEGHAN MCCARTHY
686 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217 INFO: 718.246.0200

* Mar. 21 Sun. 4-6pm P.S. BOOKSHOP Group Story Time with illustrator/authors SELINA ALKO, MIRIAM COHEN, PAT CUMMINGS, MELANIE HOPE GREENBERG, AILEEN LEIJTEN, and MEGHAN MCCARTHY.
LOCATION: 147A Front Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 INFO: 718.222.3340

* Mar. 27 Sat. 10:30am GREENLIGHT BOOKS presents PAT CUMMINGS
LOCATION: 686 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217 INFO: 718.246.0200

Pat Cummings has the listings on her blog.
Also on Selina Alko's blog.
As well as Aileen Leijten's blog.

2009 Wrap Up

2010-01-04T07:28:00.011-05:00

The last months of 2009 flew by too fast. It became hard to blog post. Here’s the recap.

October 24: I presented two power point programs, sat on a panel and critiqued illustration portfolios at the SCBWI North Central Texas Chapter‘s conference in Dallas.
November 3: A power point presentation and book signing for the NYC School Librarian Conference at Brooklyn Tech HS. It felt great to be able to walk there from my studio.

November 11: 113 boxes of MERMAIDS ON PARADE arrived. I needed to store and sell them.
I am forever grateful to these bookstores and shops who bought boxes of my books. I LOVE YOU! Please buy my autographed books from these loyal friends and colleagues.

Bank Street Bookstore - NYC
Book Court - Brooklyn
Books of Wonder - NYC
Brooklyn Museum Bookshop - Brooklyn
Eric Carle Museum Gift Shop - Amherst, MA
Exit 9 - Brooklyn
Fundamentals Parent Teacher Bookstore - Delaware, OH
Superfine - Brooklyn
Tami Furlong owner of the Fundamentals Parent Teacher Bookstore was in Brooklyn. She came to my studio to pick up her box of books and bring them back to her Delaware, Ohio store.

November 21: I signed tons of my books with other picture book authors and illustrators at the Brooklyn Museum's Third Annual Children's Book Fair. Many good friends came to visit. Here I am with David Mowery, Division Manager of the Brooklyn Central Library's Youth Wing. He bought me a gift, a Mermaid Parade T-shirt!

December 10: The Brooklyn Excelsior Charter School welcomed my author visit with the student’s colorful bulletin boards. SUPERMARKET by Kathy Krull/ Holiday House 2001.
MERMAIDS ON PARADE / Putnam 2008
This fabulous 3-D mural is based on A CITY IS by Norman Rosten/ Holt 2004.

During December 2009 I also read at bookfairs for the Grace Church School and the Corlears School and gave a program at the Moxie Spot.

For Christmas I rested.
The life of a picture book author and illustrator is never dull.
Happy New Year to all my readers!

All photos: Copyright 2009 Melanie Hope Greenberg

Artists In My Book / Bill Carney Interview

2009-12-17T13:35:00.009-05:00

Some of my most favorite moments illustrating MERMAIDS ON PARADE came from listening to music. Two local bands really hit the spot. The Jug Addicts got me into the feel of the Old Timey Coney Island style. And Les Sans Culottes evoked the psychedelia that is modern Coney Island; the band even performed at the Coney Island Mermaid Parade Ball.

Both bands are fronted by Bill Carney. By day a lawyer,

by night the leader of two bands that are always playing out somewhere in NYC, Detroit, Minneapolis, California or France. Both of his bands inspired the art and the colors in my book.

Les Sans Culottes

The Jug Addicts

In fact, several of the band members show up as characters in my book.

Bill Carney was kind enough to answer my interview questions.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?
BC: Aragorn.

Q :What does Coney Island mean to you?
BC: The cyclone, wonderwheel, boardwalk, beach, shoot the freak; a great amusement park just a bicycle ride away from my apartment.

Q: Why do you enjoy marching in the Mermaid Parade?
BC: I've viewed the parade but never marched. I love the great and inventive costumes of the paraders.

Q: What are you currently working on?
BC: I am continuing to perform with my bands, Bill Carney' s Jug Addicts and Les Sans Culottes

Thanks, Bill!

COLLECT MELANIE'S BOOKS

2009-11-22T14:55:00.017-05:00

Melanie’s Autographed Books are available through Melanie Hope Greenberg.

* PAYPAL Links On Sidebar
* AMAZON Scroll Sellers Page
MERMAIDS ON PARADE
A CITY IS
GOOD MORNING, DIGGER

1) MERMAIDS ON PARADE $16.95 + shipping

2) A CITY IS $20.00 + shipping

3) GOOD MORNING DIGGER $15.95 +shipping.

Autographed Double-Sided Color Proof Pages
from MERMAIDS ON PARADE.
Reversible. Two-Prints-In-One. 8 1/2" x 11"
Perfect for ready-made picture frames.
@$35 - shipping included

Collect Melanie's original illustrations
Published in Magazines, on Greeting Cards, and more.

Contact for details:
melanie@melaniehopegreenberg.com

MERMAIDS ON PARADE / Award - News

2009-11-16T18:43:00.008-05:00

Good News.
My blog was selected!
"100 Best Book Blogs for Kids, Tweens and Teens"
Sad News.
Sometimes books go OP.
MERMAIDS ON PARADE went out of print.
Good news.
Did not feel sorry for myself.
I now own 3200 copies of MERMAIDS ON PARADE!
Here they are on delivery day.

If you are looking to obtain brand new hardcover signed copies of MERMAIDS ON PARADE, A CITY IS, or GOOD MORNING DIGGER, contact me for more details: melanie@melaniehopegreenberg.com

Queens and Crowns Part 2 / Miss Brooklyn 2009 Interview

2009-10-28T09:36:00.010-04:00

What a thrill! What an honor! On October 4, 2009 Keelie Sheridan, Miss Brooklyn 2009, read my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE, on the stage in front of Gumbo at Brooklyn’s famous Atlantic Antic. Keelie is one of three sisters who compete in pageants but root for one another. Her family was right there cheering as Keelie was crowned in February 2009.

Keelie possesses not only natural beauty but real smarts and talent as well. An aspiring actress, she is a senior at Empire State College double majoring in British Literature and Theater with an Education concentration. A dance specialist with the YWCA-NYC at P.S. 209 in Brooklyn, her special talent which awarded her the Miss Brooklyn 2009 crown was Irish Step Dancing.

Because I earn my livelihood through Arts in Education as a visiting author-illustrator, this year’s Miss Brooklyn is a woman after my own heart. Her major goal is "Arts for All: Promoting Performing Arts Opportunities for Underprivileged Youth". She is currently training to become a theatre teaching-artist with the Community Word Project.

Miss Brooklyn 2009 Loves MERMAIDS ON PARADE

Keelie represents The Miss Brooklyn Scholarship Program which awards young women pursuing a higher education who attend college, and live or work in New York City's five boroughs. Educational advancement, achievement, and public services continue to be the primary objectives for the scholarship program in the face of changing roles for women in American society.

Learn more about what Miss Brooklyn 2009 is up to at her Blog.

Keelie was so gracious to answer my interview questions.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

KS: Splashy Sunshine O'Seashell

Q: What does Coney Island mean to you?

KS: To me, Coney Island means cotton candy and corn dogs!

Q: What are your goals as Miss Brooklyn 2009?

KS: As Miss Brooklyn 2009, it's my goal to introduce our borough to the Miss America Organization, and the valuable resource it is for young women looking to fund their education. It's also my goal to provide performing arts opportunities for kids who might not get the chance to study theatre or dance, and I hope to continue to use the public spotlight that the title of Miss Brooklyn has afforded me to do so!

Q:What is Keelie Sheridan currently working on?

KS: I'm currently working on my education, my performing arts program, and being a great Miss Brooklyn!

Thanks, Keelie!

Artists in My Book / Petra Hanson Queens and Crowns Part 1

2009-10-07T09:46:00.006-04:00

Much of the imagery in my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE, was influenced by local talent from the Brooklyn arts community. No one else could play the character of Queen Mermaid better than Petra Hanson aka Kiku Kimonalisa, leader of a faux Japanese 60’s pop rock band called Gaijin A-Go-Go.

Gaijin A Go-Go also called themselves the 55’s because "go" means the number five in Japanese. Go-Go, Five-Five, get it? So 55 became the winning badge number in my book.

As I got to know Petra better I discovered she is also a model, a fashion designer and a writer. This talented artist was kind enough to give me an interview.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

PH: My mer-name is: Maide in NY

Q: What does Coney Island mean to you?

PH: Coney Island means a subway ride from the city to the beach. Coney is like walking inside a tattoo of a circus freak.

Q: What are you currently working on?

PH: I am currently working on a new idea for a clothing line as my day job. After hours, I'm learning how to DJ, specializing in a rare collection of South American Sixties pop. In other words, I am a Mer-chant!

Thanks, Petra!

Photo: heartonastick/Flickr
Illustrations: from MERMAIDS ON PARADE Copyright 2008 Melanie Hope Greenberg

Great Timer Miriam Cohen

2009-08-31T11:03:00.019-04:00

As the business of juvenile books changes and the pace quickens to meet the needs of the modern world, it is easy to lose track of those who paved the path for us. I call these wayshowers the “Great Timers”. Miriam Cohen is a children’s book author and illustrator Great Timer.
Her 'First Grade Friends Series' includes her classic “Will I Have a Friend?”. Illustrated by Lillian Hoban and published by Macmillan in 1967.

It has since been re-published with Star Bright Books.

Miriam and I first met in the early 1990’s. We were visiting authors for the NYC public schools with the School Volunteer Program (now called Learning Leaders). We've remained dear friends ever since.

In 1996, Miriam mentioned a manuscript called “Down in the Subway” that she was trying to publish. She thought my art would be a good match. She also mentioned she saw a white dove in her backyard gardens in Queens. Miriam knew for the past few months I’d been feeding a white dove visiting my backyard gardens in Brooklyn.

An offer for “Down in the Subway” came quickly from editor Richard Jackson at DK, Ink. Traditionally, authors and illustrators are only chosen by the publisher. Miriam made some very brave, untraditional moves. She would not sell the book unless I was the illustrator. When the book went out of print, it was re-sold to Star Bright Books in 2003. “Down in the Subway” is now 11 years old. It was has won honors, and it was selected for the NYC and Brooklyn Public Library's reading lists. In 2008, the book was chosen as a New York Times Great Children's Read.

A white dove has become my good luck symbol and is illustrated somewhere in all my picture books.

Miriam was gracious enough to give me an interview.

Q: Why do you think “Down in the Subway” became a NYC classic?

MC: The story can be a classic anywhere because it taps into the world of pretend and fantasy which is in every child (and adults too).

Q: What was the idea behind the story?

MC: It was written for my dear friend Gladys who *was* the Island Lady. She lived down the street from me for many years. Gladys told me stories of being born and raised on the island of St Croix in the Caribbean. She was a modest women who was full of joy and fun and really loved children. Gladys became very ill. I visited her in the hospital the day she passed away. On the subway coming home from the hospital I felt very sad. I looked across the aisle at a row of empty seats and suddenly I saw Gladys sitting there smiling at me. I knew then I was going to write about Gladys; to tell the world what a great friend I had. I’ve found out since, that her grandchildren take “Down In the Subway” to school for Show and Tell. So I feel that Gladys is still alive.

Q: Why did you insist to the editor (Richard Jackson/DK Ink) that I must illustrate “Down in the Subway”?

MC: I had fallen in love with your books “My Father’s Luncheonette” and “Aunt Lilly’s Laundromat. The chutzpha to insist was spontaneous. It popped into my mind that you had to illustrate the book about Gladys because of your art syle and the heart that is in your books.

Q: What are you currently working on?

MC: My latest book, “Layla’s Headscarf” illustrated by Ron Himler is released September 1, 2009 with Star Bright Books. It’s about a little Muslim girl in first grade.

Thanks, Miriam!

Illustration Details from "Down in the Subway'. Copyright 1998 Melanie Hope Greenberg

Events / Presentation at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art

2009-08-16T15:42:00.024-04:00

On August 8, 2009 I presented an author-illustrator talk and demonstration of my creative picture book process at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts. What an honor! When I first arrived I noticed Eric Carle's iconic catepillar over the lobby desk. The museum looks like Carle's art. Open spaces sprinkled with vibrant kalediscope colors. Carle's huge colorful paintings represent his art technique of hand-painted paper cut for collage. That doorway in the middle led to two large gallery spaces. I was not allowed to take photos in there. In the first gallery was Tomie DePaola's solo exhibition in celebration of his 75th birthday. I took a really close up look at his paint and color techniques and the wonderful line work. What joy! The second gallery portrayed Eric Carle's life and work. It was fun to see his rough sketches, paint brushes, pallettes and the cut paper he made for his books. Best of all, in the lobby was a giant colorful cake for Eric Carle's 80th birthday on June 25, 2009.
People filled the library. I read "MERMAIDS ON PARADE".
What a good karma filled day. I saw Brooklyn friends I haven't seen in 15 years! Filming me is Rebecca Migdal, an artist I knew back in the day from CBIG the Children's Book Illustrators Group. Currently, Rebecca has her own cool comics online and in print. Here I am displaying the photo of the white dove visiting my window. I explain that I hide the white dove in all of my books. Then a book signing for the fabulous gift store well stocked with my books. THANK YOU! Another Brooklyn friend, Louise Larsen and her beautiful family visiting from California attended my presentation. Amazing! Other visitors were Andy Laties, Director of the Eric Carle Museum gift shop, Mary McDonough (taking this photo) and Paul McDonough of the Child At Heart Gallery and their granddaughter. HAPPY 80th BIRTHDAY, ERIC CARLE! Thank you for your beautiful art and books. Without your talents and gifts, our paths might not ever have crossed, nor my joyful experience of visiting your museum.

All Photos Copyright 2009
Photo Credits: Melanie Hope Greenberg, Louise Larsen, Mary McDonough

Artists In My Book / Veronica Otto

2009-08-11T09:25:00.004-04:00

Veronica Otto has been marching as a Superfine Dinette in the Coney Island Mermaid Parade for several years. This year she plans on launching her new line of resort clothing for women. Be on the lookout for her Hulili Collection.

Veronica sipping soda through a straw in MERMAIDS ON PARADE. My open minded friends not only transform from human to mermaid but even change skin tones.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

VO: Boogie Hula

Q: What does Coney Island mean to you?

VO: It's totally nostalgic of my youth when my family would go to Coney and spend the day.. and now it represents the kick-off of summer participating in the Mermaid Parade with the Dinettes. All around Coney = fun!

Q: Why do you enjoy marching in the Mermaid Parade?

VO: The crowd is awesome, everyone is having a wonderful time and it's a candy colored kaleidoscope of fun with my friends.

Q: What are you currently working on?

VO: Designing a women's resort line which hasn't hit the market yet!

Thanks, Veronica! All best with your new launch.

Illustration: Detail from MERMAIDS ON PARADE GP Putnam's Sons. Copyright 2008 Melanie Hope Greenberg

Melanie's Interview with WORDSWIMMER

2009-07-28T09:46:00.005-04:00

Bruce Black was my editor for a book I wrote and illustrated called BLESSINGS published by Jewish Publication Society in 1995.

Bruce now has a popular writing blog called Wordswimmer which was named one of the "Top 100 Creative Writing Blogs" by Online Education News at BestCollegesOnline.com.

You can also find my entire interview here. Thanks, Bruce!

INTERVIEW: One Picture Book Writer’s Process: Melanie Hope Greenberg

"Bright," "cheerful," and "bursting with light" are words that many reviewers use to describe Melanie Hope Greenberg’s picture book illustrations for children.

Her books offer a colorful view of life in Brooklyn and New York, taking children on exciting excursions to laundromats, luncheonettes and supermarkets, as well to more adventurous sites like the beach and the subway.

“Most of my books portray various views of urban life in a snapshot,” Greenberg says. “The ordinary becomes extra-ordinary when captured in art.”

But her books capture the fanciful side of life, too, as in Mermaids on Parade, which describes an actual mermaid parade in Brooklyn marking the opening of the beaches for the summer. (This year’s annual Coney Island “Mermaids on Parade” takes place on June 20th.)

It’s a costume ball, beach party, summer extravaganza, all wrapped into one, that ends happily for a young girl marching in the parade for the first time as it makes its way toward the sea.

Self-taught, Greenberg first began playing with brushes and colors during a stint as the manager of a small print gallery.

Since then she’s created more than sixteen books for children, as well as hundreds of illustrations for magazines, greeting cards, posters, wrapping paper, t-shirts, stationary, magnets, stickers, and puzzles. Some of her illustrations have been reproduced as cards for UNICEF’s popular greeting cards..

“I'm currently exhibiting twenty original picture book illustrations from seven of my books at the Brooklyn Central Library’s Youth Wing, ” Greenberg says about the free exhibit on display until June 13th. “You can learn more about the process of making picture books, so it's educational as well.”

Greenberg was kind enough to take a break from her work to share her thoughts on writing and illustrating picture books with Wordswimmer.

Wordswimmer: How do you get into the water each day?

Greenberg: I dive into the ocean of consciousness. I meditate in the mornings to submerge within, to watch my mind at work, watch my thoughts, visions and feelings that arise. The color palette for Good Morning Digger came from a short vision in meditation. Submerging keeps my awareness open during the day to catch the world around me and record what I experience with words or colors. My books are for very young people who are highly instinctual. Being submerged helps me see the world in a childlike way with constant wonder and spontaneity. Submerging helps me to trust my imaginings.

Wordswimmer: What keeps you afloat...for short work? For longer work?

Greenberg: I need an anchor in order to stay afloat. One anchor is having a strategy. I use a "map" or a 32-page thumbnail grid. Then I can envision the overall sequential form of the book I’m creating. Once I see it, the words flow. Research is another anchor. While researching Coney Island's history, I kept extensive notes which kept feeding me more ideas.

Wordswimmer: How do you keep swimming through dry spells?

Greenberg: Years of living a certain lifestyle keeps me swimming in a constant creative stride. Ideas for books do not come easy for me. Sometimes librarians or teachers tell me what is missing on their shelves and that sparks my imagination. Also, in these days of publishing I need to be my own publicist. A lot of writing goes into that. It's actually great for picture book writing, to get to the essence of what I want to convey in a short amount of time.

Wordswimmer: What's the hardest part of swimming?

Greenberg: This business requires constant training and retraining. The competition is fierce and goal posts move and keep changing. Trends come and trends go. New editors and new art directors need to become aware that my career exists. It’s constant hunting with no guarantee of a contract. One needs to know not only how to surf the wild waves but how to become a thoroughbred (seahorse)! I’ve developed a leather ego.

Wordswimmer: How do you overcome obstacles, problems, when swimming alone?

Greenberg: Persistence. Discipline plays a big role. I keep working my craft with the belief that my ideas have value. I also work every aspect of this career. Publicizing my books, presenting workshops, and an ongoing blog keeps my book career alive while treading water in between book contracts. I’d rather swim in a school of fish than stay too isolated. I communicate with other professionals in my business who have it hard, too. That knowledge makes the whole publishing process and the rejections less personal.

Wordswimmer: What's the part of swimming that you love the most?

Greenberg: Transcendence of time, space, location. True devotion that is positive and expresses what I see, think and feel when submerged within. Sometimes my ideas become a published book. I find my career is my spiritual path and learn many inner philosophies with each book I paint. I love swimming with all types of artists in various disciplines. Most of these artists are not commercial and some just do art for passion. Their influence keeps me on my toes to be true to
myself, my visions, to be original and not go trendy.

For more information about Melanie Hope Greenberg and her work, visit her website: http://www.melaniehopegreenberg.com/

To read her exhibition statement for her current show at the Brooklyn Public Library, visit: http://www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/events/exhibitions/2009/ordinaryextraordinary.jsp

And for additional info, check out:
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/tag/melanie-hope-greenberg

http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/blog/1790000379/post/950026495.html

Artists In My Book / Tim Gerken Interview

2009-07-15T10:32:00.009-04:00

Photographs by Tim Gerken capture light and motion at in-between moments.

He marches each year with Superfine at the annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade. Mermaids are his favorite photographic subjects. Here are Tim’s Mermaid Parade photos.

His character in my book displays Tim's loyal support of our arts community.

Currently, Tim teaches writing at Morrisville State College, where he is also the director of the art gallery. He has been taking pictures regularly since he got his first Olympus OM-10 in 1981.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

TG: Kowalski

Q: What does Coney Island mean to you?

Color and Colorful

Q: Why do you enjoy photographing the Mermaid Parade?

TG: See above

Q: What are your current creative endeavors?

TG: I have been filling my flicker account with photos, editing photos, and revising a poetry manuscript I started last summer.

Thanks, Tim!

Photo Credits: Top: Tim Gerken Bottom: Herb Hernandez
Art detail from MERMAIDS ON PARADE Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Illustration / Costumes and Characters

2009-07-06T09:02:00.009-04:00

Creating the costumes for over 100 characters in my book was not so hard. I know alot of creative people who love to dress up in costumes. All I had to do is use my camera, sketch and paint.

I mix hundreds of colors. I create a formula for each character and list the colors of each element: skin tone, hair, and clothing. This sometimes takes longer to do than the actual painting. It's a necessary process because I make mistakes. The formulas guide me to the correct color immediately.

*Click to enlarge*

See how I created The Shark.
Read the interview with the blue mermaid, Tanya Rynd.

Photo and Art: Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Illustration / Interview with Art Director Cecilia Yung

2009-06-29T14:56:00.007-04:00

I was thrilled to work on MERMAIDS ON PARADE with Cecilia Yung, art director of Penguin's Putnam and Philomel imprints. Her talk entitled, "The Informed Message", at my local SCBWI NY Metro Chapter left quite an impression. In fact, I've expanded on that idea to teach about it to other illustrators.

Cecilia's feng shui touches transformed my densely crammed sketches and created more space, balance and simplicity. I loved how she really listened to my personal philosophies that informed each illustration. Cecilia also was a great teacher for the narrative arc and color contrasts part of my book.

We are very fortunate to share her knowledge here.

Q: What is an art director’s role when working with an illustrator?

CY: My overall responsibility is for all visual elements of a book: illustration, design and production. When I work with an illustrator, my role is in three main areas.

First, I consider the editorial issues. This is the content of the book— It includes the story, the focus and the “angle”. (What are we talking about, why is it important and why do we care?)

Second, I look at the visual presentation of the story: the casting of the characters, the choice of location, composition, point of view, and most important of all, the rhythm and pacing of the book. (Who, what, where, how)

Lastly, I check the effectiveness of the artwork: the accuracy of the details (do they agree with the text/story/fact), the legibility of the pictures (do we understand what is going on), consistency and variety, does the story have the effect intended, the impact it needs.

Q: How does an art director work with an editor to find an artist?

CY: This varies a great deal depending on the editor and the project in question. Generally, we try to find a style that complements the author’s voice and highlights the crucial elements of the book and balances any weakness or concern we may have for the story. We also try to find an artist who has expertise and interest in the topic in question.

Q: What is unique about MERMAIDS ON PARADE?

CY: It is a book that is big and small at the same time: it is both global and local, both a festive event and a warm personal story. Melanie’s folk art style gives a specific local event a timeless folkloric aura, yet the charming details bring the character to life and turns the crowds and the noise into one little girl’s story.

Thanks, Cecilia

Art: MerCecilia, Queen of the Hudson River. Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Superfine Wins Silver Mermaid Parade'09

2009-06-24T17:03:00.013-04:00

The Superfine mermaids win the silver prize as the Best Push-Pull Float!

ROLLER COASTER OF LOVE *Click to enlarge*

CONGRATULATIONS, SUPERFINE!
See all the Mermaid Parade awards here.
Photo credit: Don Wiss

UNIT: Mermaids / Interview with Melanie

2009-06-22T11:34:00.008-04:00

Who isn’t mesmerized by mermaids? Can you name other magical sea creatures?

Mermaid Temporary Tatoos
I love to wear these beautiful tatoos in the Mermaid Parade. The tatoos were also a big hit at my book launch party. The incredible artist, Ruth Soffer, is a neighbor on my block who has been a Nature illustrator for the past 25 years. The first publication of her mermaid tatoos was in 1996. See all her gorgeous artwork for Dover Publications here.

Mermaid Legends
The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen adapted into film and a Broadway show.
Mermaids Book List

MOMTRENDS INTERVIEW WITH MELANIE : Books and Mermaids
With permission of Nicole Feliciano I post the entire blog interview.
Thanks, Nicole!

What little girl doesn't love mermaids! Brooklyn author and illustrator, Melanie Hope Greenberg, tapped into this love with her new book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE. Greenberg celebrates a Brooklyn tradition with her latest book. Every year thousands of spectators watch this art parade in Coney Island. This book turns the spectacle into a dreamy backdrop for a little girl's fantasy. The award-winning book is stuffed with colorful gouache illustrations and sure to delight fanciful girls. I caught up with the author to learn more about what inspires her work.

Q: Did you like to read as a kid?

MHG: My two older sisters taught me to read before I started kindergarten. I developed a love of reading. My books were on my toy shelf. That’s how I saw books, they were toys. I did not own many books, I mostly borrowed books from my local public library branch.

Q: Why do you think little girls love Mermaids?

MHG: Mermaids are magical, shiny and beautiful. They spark the imagination. They stretch the boundaries of reality which children do quite naturally. Mythological creatures bring us inside ourselves, to the mysterious wonder of existence. I think mermaids help little girls feel their gorgeous femaleness, as well as feel smart and strong.

Q: What were some of your favorite books growing up?

MHG: I adored a book called “Little Witch” by Anna Elizabeth Bennett. I re-read it so many times. I still think about the main character, Minx, mixing colorful powdered potion combinations when I mix my paints. I also loved a book called “Lisa and Lottie” by Erich Kastner. The bookwas the original story for the movie “The Parent Trap”. I loved the Nancy Drew series too. My parents subscribed to Life and Look Magazines and I think my love for dramatic pictorial storytelling was influenced by looking at the photos in these magazines.

Q: What makes a great children's book?

MHG: Truthfully, I think the public decides. Sometimes a book comes out at the right time and strikes the fancy of the collective. There is no one formula for successful publishing because the public mood and tastes are a part of the formula. And the public’s tastes and moods change all the time. All a publisher can do is take a chance on a book idea they love and hope that the public falls in love too.

Mermaid Tatoo artwork by Ruth Soffer for Dover Publications

MERMAIDS ON PARADE* 2 Booksignings Celebrate the Mermaid Parade

2009-06-18T15:23:00.007-04:00

Cheer on the Superfine Dinettes as the ROLLER COASTER OF LOVE during the Mermaid Parade, the largest art parade in the United States. June 20 2pm in Coney Island.

*Booksigning* MERMAIDS ON PARADE
at Superfine's Mermaid Parade After Party!
Starting 8pm will also feature video screenings of the day's events, past Mermaid Parades and photo exhibit “Mermaids by the Sea” by Steven Harris.

* Autographed copies of MERMAIDS ON PARADE are on sale during the parade and all through the year at Superfine 126 Front Street Dumbo Brooklyn 718 243-9005.

*Book Reading and Signing* MERMAIDS ON PARADE
Sun June 21 3:30-4pm 7th Heaven Fair
The Community Book Store 143 7 Ave Park Slope, Brooklyn.
A great line up of picture book authors and illustrators from 11am-4pm.

Contest: We have a Winner! Thanks to all who participated!

Cyclone Image: Detail from MERMAIDS ON PARADE copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Artists in My Book / Herb Hernandez Interview

2009-06-13T09:18:00.010-04:00

Herb Hernandez is the webmaster for my website. Herb is multi-talented, he designs clothing and jewelry, he dances and acts, he reads Tarot cards and has his own photography blog. You've seen his name on my blog several times for photo credits.

Herb became King Neptune in my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Here is his interview:

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

HH: Conchita. I would blow a conch shell like a horn to summon people to the seashore for fun.

Q: What does Coney Island mean to you?

HH: Affordable fun, beach and great sights to photograph.

Q: Why do you enjoy taking photos at the Mermaid Parade?

HH: Taking photos of the mermaid parade is like enjoying a delicious dessert with all your favorite toppings! A tasty photo is happening every moment.

Q: What are your current creative endeavors?

I am enjoying photographing shadows and reflections of light on the walls when the Sun is rising or setting. They seem mysterious and beautiful to me.

Thanks, Herb!

Photos: Herb Hernandez
Top photo and illustration detail: Melanie Hope Greenberg
ps that's Melanie at the 2008 Mermaid Parade

Art Exhibition / Curator Barbara Wing Interview

2009-06-10T08:12:00.005-04:00

LAST WEEK! "Ordinary into Extraordinary" is up until June 13 at Brooklyn Central Library 10 Grand Army Plaza.

CONTEST Win a FREE Autographed Copy of MERMAIDS ON PARADE!

I met BPL curator Barbara Wing in April 2008 at the Dweck Auditorium. She had been sitting in the audience for my program. Afterwards, she asked that I write a proposal for an exhibition of my picture book art. The rest is history.

Q: Why is it important to show original picture book art at Brooklyn Central Library?

BW: The main reason to show original picture book art is to share the illustrators’ original artwork with children and adults, before it is printed into an actual book. Children can view wonderful art that is vibrant, exciting, full of color and form, and hopefully imaginations will be stirred by the artists’ illustrations which relate to children’s everyday experiences and fantasies.

We are fortunate to have so many terrific children’s picture book illustrators living and working in Brooklyn to provide us with a rich reading and art experience.

Q: How do you choose the picture book artists?

BW: The library has an exhibitions committee that decides upon which picture book illustrator will have an exhibition. The committee includes artists, teachers, librarians, gallery owners and specialists from the library’s programs & exhibitions department.

Q: What does a curator do?

BW: A curator usually selects the artwork of a guest artist, especially at a gallery, museum, library or other place of exhibition. Part of the curator’s responsibility is to look after the artwork and to take good care of it. Frequently, the curator will have a theme or topic in mind, and both the curator and artist will work together to determine how the artist’s art will be featured, organized and displayed.

Q: If you had a mermaid name, what would it be?

BW: I’ve always liked the name, KAI (pronounced kye and rhymes with sky). It is of Hawaiian origin and its meaning is “the sea.”

Thanks for making the experience such a pleasure, Barbara!

Photo: Herb Hernandez

Artists in My Book / Jay Asher Interview

2009-06-04T09:10:00.016-04:00

The first time I met New York Times bestselling author, Jay Asher, he was dressed as a mermaid.

We met in Los Angeles at the SCBWI 2005 National Conference Beach Bash party. Jay's writing pals, Robin and Eve, were mermaids too. A few months later they started blogging together as the Disco Mermaids. The trio had just won first place in the party's costume contest.

Shiny and glittery Melanie and Disco Mermaids Jay, Eve and Robin.

I believe in lucky omens. Having just marched in my first Mermaid Parade in Brooklyn, I swam over to my west coast counterparts and took a photo for book research.

The Disco Mermaids L to R: Jay, Eve, Robin in MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Jay and I still cross paths from time to time. His first published YA novel, THIRTEEN REASONS WHY, published by Razorbill, Penguin USA, was in progress in 2005. Now the book is a big hit!

Jay kindly took time to answer my interview questions.

Q: Why were you in a mermaid costume and make-up?

JA: We were attending a conference for children's book writers and illustrators. Every year, that conference has a theme party. That year, the theme was a Beach Bash. My two friends and I liked to dress up in similar costumes each year, so we went to a costume shop in the hopes of finding three similar beach-related costumes. The only thing they had three of were mermaid costumes, so that's what we dressed as. And, in the costume contest, we won first place!

Q: Why do mermaids hold such fascintation?

JA: I think it has to do with childhood fantasies. When I was a kid, I loved wolves and running out in nature, so werewolves have always been fascinating to me. A lot of kids love swimming and ocean animals like dolphins, seahorses, and starfish. Mermaids are these semi-human beings who get to swim all day with those animals. How cool would that be! Plus, mermaids are usually portrayed as very beautiful.

Thanks, Jay!

FREE SIGNED COPY OF MERMAIDS ON PARADE CONTEST

Photo and Image: Melanie Hope Greenberg. Copyright 2008

CONTEST Win FREE Autographed Books!

2009-06-02T08:51:00.010-04:00

Penguin USA was very generous to give me copies of MERMAIDS ON PARADE that I will autograph for some lucky winners. The Mermaid Parade is Saturday June 20, 2009 at Coney Island. Here’s a way fo join all the glittery fun.

Each year I march with the Superfine Dinettes who star as characters in my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

CONTEST QUESTION:
Who will the Superfine Dinettes be marching as for the 2009 Mermaid Parade?

CLUE: It is a title of a song.

Read about the origins of the Superfine Dinettes.
In other years they were:
The Hip Hop Hula Mermaids
The MerMod Squad
The Ladies Mermalade

RULES:
1) Answer in the comment box on my blog.
(Remember to leave your website, blog link or some way to get in touch).
OR
2) Email your answer to melanie@melaniehopegreenberg.com

I will announce the lucky winners very soon after the Mermaid Parade.

Photo: Tim Galbreath 2006

Costumes and Characters / Virpi Kanervo Interview

2009-06-01T17:04:00.011-04:00

When I first met Virpi Kanervo I had recently sold MERMAIDS ON PARADE to GP Putnam’s Sons, an imprint of Penguin USA. She generously loaned me her photographs from the 2004 Mermaid Parade. Those photos helped to create some of the costumes and characters in my book.

This shark made a bold statement against the destruction of family homes in Brooklyn in order to build a sports arena.

Virpi and the Shark in MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

I really appreciate Virpi’s welcome and for introducing me to so many creative people in the Brooklyn arts community. I consider her a force of nature who channels her boundless energy in so many diverse areas.

Here’s her interview.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

VK: Eline, because there is a famous statue of The Little Mermaid in the Copenhagen Harbor in Denmark. H.C. Anderson, who wrote the story of the little mermaid, was from Copenhagen. Eline Eriksen was the model for the statue, and she was also the wife of the sculptor Edvard Eriksen who made the statue.

Q: How does the Coney Island community touch your life?

VK: Coney Island is that crazy never-never-land that we all need in our lives. It is especially great to have this beach-front-amusement-district-conveniently-in-the-City. Coney Island is unique and irrreplacable - especially the Mermaid Parade - and I sure hope it stays in the future.

Q: Why do enjoy photographing the Mermaid Parade?

VK: The sun (or the rain), the light, the movement, the colors, the exitement, the comradership, the intense fun ... It is not just snapping a picture here and there, but documenting the whole ensalada that is the Mermaid Parade.

Q: What are currently working on?

VK: I am currently working on finishing my finals and graduating. So, I am sitting in the George Washington University Law Library studying ... oops, I mean answering what I am currently working on.

Thanks, Virpi!

Photo: Virpi Kanervo
Image: Detail from MERMAIDS ON PARADE.
Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Cheryl and Betsy's BEA Bash

2009-05-30T14:20:00.008-04:00

Betsy Bird of the School Library Journal’s Fuse #8 Blog and Cheryl Klein, editor at Scholastic, throw some great Drink Nites. This time it was to celebrate Book Expo America in town for their convention at the Jacob Javits Center.

The Best Bets: Betsy Bird is a great hostess.

So many publishing people attended, authors, illustrators, editors, librarians, SCBWI folk, bloggers and more. I got to chat with illustrator Jesse Joshua Watson as well as authors Susanna Reich, Greg Neri, Steven Kroll and pink-haired about to pop pregnant, Laini Taylor

Author-illustrator John Rocco and his lovely author-illustrator wife, Aileen Leijten are neighbors from DUMBO.

A table of good cheer. Left to Right, Heather Scott, Jennifer Hubert from Reading Rants, Laura Lutz from Queens Library and Michael Santangelo from Brooklyn Pubic Library.

Photos: Melanie Hope Greenberg

Artists In My Book / Shannon Kerner Interview

2009-05-29T10:40:00.010-04:00

I met Shannon Kerner in 2005, we were creative vendors for the Jay Street Market in DUMBO, Brooklyn. Shannon is also a Superfine Dinette, they marched as The MerMod Squad in the 2005 Mermaid Parade.

A woman of many talents, Shannon writes, sings with her own band, and loves to create art daily. I’ll never forget the chocolate pastries she baked and sold at the Jay Street Market. Yum.

Here’s her interview.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

SK: Shanimal. I'm always a mermaid, so my name wouldn't change. I guess when I'm underwater it's something more like shaaa aaa aa niii niii maaaaaaa llllll.

Q: What does Coney Island mean to you?

SK: It means enough to me that I wrote a song about it. I think Coney Island is a place that has been constantly in flux as long as it has been a place for people to escape the city. It is unfortunate that we are living during a time when it will be under development, but such is life. It will always be a place where anyone and everyone can get to the water on a hot day and have some fun. Wonder Wheel Forever!

Q: Why do you march in the Mermaid Parade?

SK: I think of it as a holiday, something not to be missed if possible. You wouldn't miss eating turkey on Thanksgiving, would you?

Q: What are your current creative endeavors?

SK: My band Shanimal is going to put out an album soon, called Rough & Tumble. You can check out my music. We are also making a video! This album has taken awhile, so it is pretty exciting. I try to make art everyday. Write a song or make pop-up art or do something funny to make someone smile, you know, the good stuff of life.

Thanks, Shannon!

*Image: Shannon Kerner in MERMAIDS ON PARADE.
Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg
*Photo: Tim Galbreath

Association of Booksellers for Children Visits Melanie's Exhibition at the Brooklyn Central Library

2009-05-27T18:41:00.009-04:00

The Executive Director of the Association of Booksellers for Children, Kristen McLean, was kind enough to visit my exhibition while she’s in town for Book Expo America. We slowly toured the 28 display showcases filled with original art from my picture books and chatted in the beautiful plaza in front of the library.

Kristen will host the Not-a-Dinner and (Mostly) Silent Auction, ABC’s gala event for the BEA, this Friday evening May 29 at the Brooklyn Marriott. The auction features original children’s book illustration and comic work by some of the most well known illustrators in children’s publishing.

ABC's Kristen McLean by the golden pillars of Brooklyn Central Library.

See this original illustration from AUNT LILLY’S LAUNDROMAT, a picture book I wrote and illustrated now on exhibition in "Ordinary into Extraordinary", at the Brooklyn Central Library *Youth Wing* 10 Grand Army Plaza until June 13, 2009. It's FREE!

I got the idea for AUNT LILLY’S LAUNDROMANT while doing laundry at the Ideal Laundromat on Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights. I discovered the owner, Mr Chen fast sleep in his chair. I wrote a story of an immigrant who must adjust to a new environment; the hard working backbone of a community, sometimes overlooked. I chose a Haitian main character because I love the colorful, vibrant, spiritual, and multi-patterned art of Haiti.

Image: Detail from AUNT LILLY'S LAUNDROMAT.
Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Writing and Illustrating / Dummies Are Not Dumb

2009-05-26T20:25:00.010-04:00

Now that I’ve written a story about a shy mermaid coming out of her shell, how do I go about getting my story published?

In order to present my book idea to an editor I take these steps.

First, thumbnail grids help to see the whole 32 page book at once in a sequence of scenes.
Click on image to enlarge.

Then, storyboards for the 32 pages put words and pictures together.
Click on image to enlarge.

After that, the dummy, a fake 32 page picture book with both sketches and text helps me feel the turn of the page.
Click on image to enlarge.

Last, I found an editor who was interested in my book idea.

To sell a book, I send the editor my packet which includes a typed manuscript, the book dummy and a color art sample.

Wish Me Luck!

All Images Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

MERMAIDS ON PARADE wins an honor

2009-05-22T09:30:00.005-04:00

MERMAIDS ON PARADE has been selected as Bank Street College of Education’s 2009 Best Books of the Year!

The Children’s Book Committee at Bank Street College of Education creates, publishes, and distributes one of the most comprehensive annotated book lists for children, ages infant–14. The committee reviews over 4,000 titles each year for accuracy and literary quality and considers their emotional impact on children. It chooses the best 600 books, both fiction and nonfiction, which it lists according to age and category in the annual Best Children’s Books of the Year List.

Mermaid Parade Season Has Started

2009-05-22T09:20:00.004-04:00

The Superfine Dinettes, who star in my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE, had their first Mermaid Parade meeting to discuss our plans to march. The parade takes place at Coney Island on June 20, 2009 at 2pm.

More to come......

The Dweck is Gweat!

2009-05-22T08:31:00.006-04:00

On May 19, 2009 I presented a power point program about the creation of my picture book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE, for some delightful second graders at the Dweck Auditorium in the Brooklyn Central Library.

The program celebrated my exhibition "Ordinary into Extraordinary" that is FREE to the public until June 13, 2009.

Afterwards, the students went upstairs to see the exhibition.

Schools expert, Joyce Szuflita, from NYC School Help, was my invited guest.
Here's her recap of my program on her blog, My Side Walk Chalk.

Picture Book Art

2009-05-16T10:25:00.004-04:00

You can see this original illustration from a picture book called,
ON MY STREET by Eve Merriam, in "Ordinary into Extraordinary" at the Brooklyn Central Library *Youth Wing* 10 Grand Army Plaza until June 13, 2009. It's FREE!

I never met poet Eve Merriam, but believe we'd be friends. Many authors and illustrators work on the same book project but never meet. I'm so fortunate to know many of my wonderful authors. Anne Rockwell, Miriam Cohen, Norman Rosten, and Olga Litowinsky all requested that I illustrate their books. That is rare. I am forever grateful to them. This book is dedicated to my beautiful neighborhood, Brooklyn Heights.

Image: From ON MY STREET. Copyright Melanie Hope Greenberg

Artists in My Book / Alex Battles Interview

2009-05-14T15:24:00.012-04:00

Alex Battles is about good energy. He's also a big supporter of books.
Transplanted from Ohio, the multi-talented performer also produces many popular musical venues in the New York City area; including the Johnny Cash Birthday Bash and the Brooklyn Country Music Festival. I saw him with Banjorama at the 5th Annual Brooklyn Winter Hoedown last March at Superfine. That’s when I asked for an interview and he agreed.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?
AB: Gary Ukulele!

Q: How do your music ventures connect the NYC arts communities?
AB: We just had an artist Martin Sartryb, do a beautiful mural for the
Cash Bash. I would like to do more things like that.

Q: Do you march in the Mermaid Parade?
AB: No, but I once videotaped a mermaid wedding! :D

Q: What does Coney Island represent for you?
AB: The Cyclone.

Q: What are you currently working on?
AB: Making a record.

Thanks Alex!

Photo Credits: Katie Kovach
Image * Alex Battles in MERMAIDS ON PARADE GP Putnam's Son

Brooklyn Blog Fest '09 Recap

2009-05-13T18:50:00.016-04:00

Last November, author-illustrator Douglas Florian, sent a pink blogspot template my way; he named it Mermaids on Parade and suggested the blog be used to publicize my picture books. I started blogging.

When I read there was going to be a Brooklyn Blog Fest '09 I had go.
Besides, it was held at powerHouse Books who sell A CITY IS.

I introduced myself to faces I recognized from photos online, like Claude Scales of the Self-Absorbed Boomer Blog as well as the Cobble Hill Blog, and Louise Crawford of Only the Blog Knows Brooklyn, who MC’d the event.

Our name tags also helped. Introduced myself to LA Slugocki. Glad I was friendly, she mentioned my blog in her review about the Blog Fest '09 for the Dumbo NYC Blog and the Brooklyn Heights Blog.

I met a guardian angel named Joyce Szuflita, a school specialist from My Side Walk Chalk Blog. She suggested I attend the Parent Group breakout session after the panel. (Joyce quickly listed my website in her NYC School Help Newsletter).

The Parent Group was very helpful. Everyone took everyone else’s business cards. How great to find out that Blog Fest panelist, Hip Slope Mama’s Melissa Lopato knew about my books; that Karen Connell of A Child Grows in Brooklyn remembered my author visit from a couple of years ago; that Anna Fader of Mommy Poppins and Bethany Rule Vedder of Sane Moms were so approachable; and that New York Magazine and Park Slope author and mom, Amy Sohn once bought my jewish holiday book.

Floated across the street on Cloud 9 to the Blog Fest after party at Galapagos. Finally met Homer and Mrs Fink from the Brooklyn Heights Blog which voted me Brooklyn Heights Blog Ten 2008. BHB reporter Sarah Portlock was there too. Have not seen her since my PS 58 author residency.

Photo: Found in Brooklyn's Lisanne McT won the digital camera in the raffle. She visualized winning it beforehand. Hope her luck rubs off on me!

I LOVE DUMBO/ DUMBO Loves Melanie's Books

2009-05-10T17:41:00.023-04:00

Superfine sells autograhed copies of MERMAIDS ON PARADE all year.
They are located at 126 Front Street 718.243.9005.

Today was one of those great days in DUMBO Brooklyn for chats, hugs, delicious food and books. It started at Superfine. Nothing beats my favorite Sunday brunch and live music with the Lounge Leader.

Superfine owner Cara Lee Sparry poses with my book. Thanks, Superfine!

After brunch I walked over to the Bklyn Designs show at the St Ann’s Warehouse.

Iglooplay children's furniture by Lisa Albin Design invited children’s authors and illustrators for book readings and signings. Thanks, Lisa! Author and illustrator Janet Pedersen warmed the bench reading her delightful book, "Houdini the Amazing Caterpillar". Lisa Albin, Janet Pedersen and I had the Mother’s Day spirit.

Then it was my turn to read.

A full moon Mother's Day felt filled with love. Even met my former yoga teacher at the show!

My time at the show was over. I strolled through DUMBO and discovered that Kim who owns Journey at 166 Water Street displays a copy MERMAIDS ON PARADE in her beautiful shop. Thanks Kim!

I stopped into P.S. Bookshop at 145-A Front Street. They sell autographed copies of A CITY IS and GOOD MORNING, DIGGER. Thanks, Yuval!

On the way home I stopped into powerHouse Books at 37 Main Street. They carry autographed copies of A CITY IS. Thanks, Susanne!

Did I tell you that I LOVE DUMBO?

Photo Credits : Melanie Hope Greenberg, Janet Pedersen and Sat Jagat Singh Khalsa.

Events / Brooklyn Designs 5/10/09

2009-05-08T16:46:00.005-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!

I'll be reading and signing MERMAIDS ON PARADE, GOOD MORNING DIGGER and A CITY IS on Mother's Day
Sunday, May 10th
2:30 pm – 3 pm
Kid’s Story Time with Lisa Albin Design's Igloo Play,

BROOKLYN DESIGNS - A JURIED EXHIBIT OF BROOKLYN’S HOTTEST CONTEMPORARY FURNISHINGS MAY 8-10, 2009
St. Ann's Warehouse 38 Water St DUMBO Brooklyn

OR
Collect my autographed books in the Dumbo area at:
* A CITY IS @ PowerHouse Books 37 Main Street DUMBO
* MERMAIDS ON PARADE @ Superfine 126 Front St. DUMBO 718.243.9005

Image: "Mothers & Children" by Melanie Hope Greenberg Copyright 1997
Collect this original illustration. melanie@melaniehopegreenberg.com

Melanie's Library Exhibition / TV Interview

2009-05-08T15:33:00.009-04:00

TIME OUT NEW YORK mentions my current Brooklyn Central Library Exhibition:
“Illustrator Melanie Hope Greenberg captures the magic of New York City in the simple yet evocative drawings that can be found in her children’s books including ‘Mermaids on Parade’ and ‘A City Is’ “ - Issue 710, pg 57

All the BPL artists were filmed by Brooklyn Cable Access Television for the ELEANOR TV show. The interviews air on Sat May 9 @ 9:30AM
Ch 67 (cablevision),
Ch. 34 (Time Warner)
Ch 82 (RCN)
Ch 42.
Airing is scheduled in Queens on QPTV
Fri May 15th @ 12:30pm Ch 34
Sun May 17th @ 3 pm Ch 56.

You can see this original illustration from DOWN IN THE SUBWAY in "Ordinary into Extraordinary" at the Brooklyn Central Library *Youth Wing* 10 Grand Army Plaza until June 13, 2009. FREE to the public.

DOWN IN THE SUBWAY was chosen "New York Times Great Read" in 2008. Author Miram Cohen personally chose me to illustrate her “subway ride to nowhere”. Miriam and I met through Learning Leaders in 1993, traveling to give author visits at PS 59 in the Bronx. We both saw white doves in our gardens in Queens and in Brooklyn. Around the same time, Miriam mentioned a manuscript written for her Jamaican friend Gladys, who had recently passed away. I painted Gladys (The Island Lady) as Mother Nature who gifts the hot subway riders with the four elements of air, water, earth and fire from out of her colorful bag. Miriam has always been a wonderful friend and guide in my career and life.

All Art is copyrighted 1998 by Melanie Hope Greenberg.

Writing / Editors *Interview with Timothy Travaglini

2009-05-04T08:59:00.010-04:00

Most people do not understand how a book gets on a shelf. I am often approached by friends, family, strangers and asked if I can illustrate their story. They explain it's a hit with their children, classroom or friends. If only publishing were that easy.

The reason for this blog is to end the misconceptions. To sell a story idea for publication an editor has to like it first. Currently, over 50 children’s publishing houses exist, each with several editors. It’s the job of the aspiring author or illustrator to find an editor that will buy their story. Not easy, each house has their own submission rules.

I originally met senior editor Tim Travaglini when we were faculty for SCBWI crossing paths in Alabama and Nebraska. It was at the 2005 SCBWI National conference in Los Angeles when I approached Tim about a new book idea. I knew he loved my illustration style. It took another 6 months for me to rewrite and sketch to show Tim my idea. Within weeks of my submission I was offered a contract with GP Putnam’s Sons, an imprint of Penguin USA.

Tim graciously explains his complex job.

Q: What does a picture book editor do for a book project from creative to pricing to marketing?

TT: An editor discovers a project; advocates acquiring it; negotiates advances and contracts; finds an illustrator (if not a one-person project); does the above with the illustrator; edits the text; addresses publisher's and art director's concerns with text; "edits" sketches and then finished artwork; addresses publisher's and art director's concerns with sketches and artwork; oversees the project's path through copyediting, design and production; launches the project in-house to Sales and Marketing, and later may present to the sales force at Sales Conference; coordinates author with Marketing to maximize author's key contacts and local/regional/or topical media; advocates for support of book as needed. Increasingly the Modern Editor may also market directly (e. g. solicit and send copies to bloggers, accounts, librarians, and the like), and most importantly marshal the artist-author's self-promotional efforts (which now includes a vast arsenal of options). And I am sure I have overlooked a few things…

Q: How can authors and illustrators help their books sell well?

TT: The Modern Author must have a comprehensive and interactive website; on-line video content; maintain a living list of contacts that she/he both emails and mails to quarterly (or to announce special events). She/He ideally should aim for as many school visits per year as possible; become acquianted with every children’s librarian, school, bookseller, and
children’s literature specialist in her/his state or region; create classroom activities and/or discussion guides unique to each book. And she/he must continue to produce the best possible books.

Q: Which strengths did you find in my submission of MERMAIDS ON PARADE to offer a contract (so quickly) ?

TT: MERMAIDS ON PARADE was on a topic that not only had never been done before, but is about an immensely creative, colorful and vibrant event. And it was about a girl dressing up. Coupled with your artwork it was an irresistible combination.

Q: If you had a mermaid name what would it be?

TT: Fishy Seabottom

Thanks Tim!

Photo: Tanya Rynd owner of Superfine, Timothy Travaglini and Melanie at the MERMAIDS ON PARADE launch party at Superfine in Brooklyn.

Image: Timothy Travaglini as Fishy Seabottom in MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Picture Book Art

2009-04-30T20:50:00.006-04:00

You can see this original illustration at the Brooklyn Central Library Youth Wing 10 Grand Army Plaza until June 13, 2009. FREE to the public.

The illustration is from A CITY IS, a collection of poems by Brooklyn's first poet laureate, Norman Rosten, published by Henry Holt and Company in 2004. I painted my truth having grown up in New York City absorbing it's colors and shapes; it felt great to release the vibrant energy, to paint my most cherished city with some new colors. Norman Rosten was also from Brooklyn, he lived right across the street from me. A great person to be encouraged by. His poems taught me to aim for the best in my art and with my visions.

Image: Copyright 2004 Melanie Hope Greenberg

School Visit / PS 122 Letters and Questions

2009-04-29T14:49:00.008-04:00

Update: Based on viewing the PS 58 art residency exhibtion on my blog in Denise McCabe's computer classes and reading A CITY IS, PS 122's first graders created beautiful art about "their city" using the Pixie program.
I'm honored. Thank you.
Enjoy their video.

I’ve been visiting PS122 in Queens for their annual Read Aloud and breakfast every year since 2000. This year I met with first graders who sent me many sweet and funny letters that said (without editing their writing) :

“I liked the fireworks. I think you should put in more purple”
“I like when you drawed the stars it looked like they were sleeping”.
“You must be and arther and a ilistrader too”.

Best of all, these young writers sent me some questions that I can share.
Thanks PS122!

Class 1-204 asked: Did you go to art school?
MHG: No, but I think it’s a great idea for young artists to get a well rounded arts education. New York City has many art schools and colleges.

Class 1-205 asked: How do you know when you are finished with a book?
MHG: When you are taking a test or doing homework the teacher gives the class a certain amount of time to finish. In publishing we call that a “deadline”. It usually takes me about a year to complete a 32 page picture book from beginning sketches to final art.

Class 1-303 asked: What is it like being an illustrator?
MHG: I love to express my inner visions through art and show others how I see the world.

Class 1-304 asked: Do you live in a city?
MHG: Yes, I’m so lucky that I grew up and continue to live in New York City, the cultural capital of the world

Class 1-308 asked: How old were you when you first illustrated a book?
MHG: I was 34 when my first book called AT THE BEACH was published.

Photo: Melanie and PS 122 school librarian, Virginia Hood, stand in front of the banner to welcome the Read Aloud guests.

School Visit / Daniel Warren Elementary 4/22/09

2009-04-29T14:41:00.004-04:00

I gave a Professional Development workshop at the lovely Daniel Warren Elementary School in Mamaroneck, NY. I worked with K-2 teachers on the process of picture book creation. I will always remember their fun energy, laughter and the picture books they created. Thanks for my wonderful visit.

Image: Teachers making books at Daniel Warren Elementary.

Melanie's Art Exhibition / FREE and Open to the Public

2009-04-09T10:37:00.014-04:00

"ORDINARY INTO EXTRAORDINARY" my exhibition at Brooklyn Central Library Youth Wing is offically open to the public until June 13, 2009.

Blog links to my exhibition:
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS BLOG
FOUND IN BROOKLYN
HMHNYC
MOMTRENDS
PAT CUMMINGS BLOG
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL FUSE#8
URBAN BABY

Brooklyn Central Library had a VIP reception with all the artists and curators in the exhbition. BCAT came to film us.

I gave a short speech. Gulp!

Barbara Wing, curator of my exhibition.

Sabine Aronowsky and blogger Lisannne McT came to celebrate.

Hope you will stop by the exhibition next time you go to the library.
It’s FREE!
See the installation of "Ordinary into Extraordinary".

Photos: Herb Hernandez, HMHNYC

Melanie's Art Exhibition * Brooklyn Central Library * So Grand

2009-04-06T15:00:00.008-04:00

I installed my exhibition "ORDINARY INTO EXTRAORDINARY" in 28 showcase displays at Brooklyn Central Library Youth Wing, Grand Army Plaza. I am so honored.

My exhibition is from April 7 through June 13, 2009 and celebrates 20 years of being a published picture book author and illustrator. Original illustrations from seven of my picture books will portray New York City's urban communities. I also display examples of my picture book process.

BPL librarian and angel, Michael Santangelo adds sparkle to the showcases and helped with the installation.

Here I am installing original illustrations from MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Job well done.

Curator Barbara Wing by the golden feet at the library's fabulous front entrance. Always a joy to work with, Barbara's good energy made the exhibition so much fun to create.

Artists in My Book / Laura Sewell

2009-03-30T08:54:00.007-04:00

Happy Women's History Month.

Laura Sewell is one of the Superfine Dinettes. Laura is also one of the choreographers for the Dinettes’ dance moves at the Mermaid Parade and for other shows at Superfine. She also taught me how to make a mermaid tail which became an activity in MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Q: What is your mermaid name? How did you arrive at that name?

LS: Gina de la Mer. Gina is short for Regina, which means Queen in Latin, and de la Mer means "of the sea" in French.

Q: How long have you been a Superfine Dinette?

LS: I've been with the Dinettes from the very beginning, 2002. Mermaidra (Tanya Rynd) asked me to show some hula moves I picked up in Hawaii to her East River friends; the next thing we knew we were Dinettes.

Q: What is your contribution to the Dinettes for the Mermaid Parade?

LS: I help the Dinettes create something from their ideas, realize their dreams. That means coordinating the logistics involved, from inviting everyone to rehearsal to writing down the movements in the order we've decided. Being like a constant rock in the sea through the process, while the group creativity swirls around. Helping the new ones decorate their tails (like I did with you, MerMel) and apply their false eyelashes on the bus. So our diverse group of amateur performers hits the parade with the confidence and charisma of seasoned pros.

Q: What does Coney Island represent to you?

LS: At the turn of the century, Coney was another planet just a subway ride away: Dreamland and Luna Park were fantastic, magical, world-class. The wonderfully inventive spirit of the Mermaid Parade honors those memories with our annual sprinkle of glitter on her sands. But Coney Island deserves to sparkle every day!

Q: What are you currently working on?

LS: I do visual styling and production work for top-notch commercial clients. You can see some of the beautiful images I've helped create at my website.

I've long wanted to expand the definition of myself as an artist to use more of my brain-storming, big-picture talents. The Municipal Art Society's "Imagine Coney" initiative gave the public an opportunity to submit their ideas for the future of Coney Island. You can see the ideas, including some of what I was inspired to write (#206-211 in the gallery section) here.

I also hope to apply my gift for mobilizing people (and mermaids!) to including disenfranchised Coney lovers in the local government processes that will determine it's future.

Thanks Laura!

Images:
* Gina de la Mer in MERMAIDS ON PARADE
* Laura Sewell on the Superfine bus going to the Mermaid Parade.

COMMUNITY / Teachers

2009-03-26T10:34:00.007-04:00

Happy Women's History Month.
My cousin Michelle is a second grade teacher at PS 133 in Queens. We grew up in the Bronx and not in luxury. For anyone out there who thinks they need tons of money to go far... think again. It takes education, imagination and self effort to rise up to your highest dreams. Go for it!

Q: Why are picture books important for elementary students?

MA: Elementary students are taught to use picture cues to help them comprehend the text of the book. They pause to look for additional information that the text alone doesn't provide.

Q: What kinds of picture books do your students enjoy?

MA: Young students enjoy picture books that are funny and unusual. They love colorful pictures.

Q: How do you choose books for your classroom library?

MA: Teachers select books that tie into a unit or subject that they are teaching. For Women's History Month I looked for easy to read biographies about Helen Keller, Harriet Tubman and Amelia Earhart. The children enjoyed seeing the sign alphabet that Helen learned when she was about seven years old.

Q: What impact has MERMAIDS ON PARADE made on your students?

MA: My class loved hearing about mermaids. They love the whole idea of a parade to welcome summer. They love that it's near the ocean and that the people dress up as creatures from the sea.

Thanks Michelle!

Where I grew up on Boynton Avenue in the Bronx. My building is next to the bank. Michelle's grandmother, my great aunt Helen, lived in my building. I took this photo from the elevator train station at Elder Ave.

Two Hopes: Melanie Hope Greenberg and her cousin, Michelle Hope Attar at Melanie's book launch party at Superfine.

EVENTS/ PS 58 Art Show

2009-03-23T11:52:00.006-04:00

My residency with PS 58 lives on.
To celebrate Nature and Ecology on the first day of Spring, the second graders had an art opening. They built this huge city out of recyled garbage.

How cool that they added a street, sidewalks, dogs and a bus stop. Very creative!
I am so proud of all the students, teachers and parents who participated in this great project. THANK YOU!

Charles and Stella Branstool enjoy cupcakes and pretzel sticks at the art opening. You can purchase MERMAIDS ON PARADE at their shop, Exit 9.

Top Photo Credit: Angus Killick

EVENTS/ The Moxie Spot

2009-03-18T16:29:00.004-04:00

Sunday, March 22, 2009 11:00 am -12 pm

The Moxie Spot 81 Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn 718-923-9710

“Celebrate Our City”

Melanie will be reading and signing her picture books.

Featuring
A CITY IS written by Brooklyn's poet laureate.
GOOD MORNING, DIGGER written by Anne Rockwell.

Plus a FUN, FREE Cityscape Art Project to take home.

ARTISTS IN MY BOOK * Tanya Rynd *

2009-03-09T22:11:00.013-04:00

Happy Women’s History Month. Tanya Rynd is one of three women owners of Superfine, a 2005 NYC Small Business Award winner to help “shape, serve and improve the lives of women”. Their kid friendly restaurant, gallery, and performance space is a hub in the Dumbo Brooklyn arts scene. In 2005, Tanya invited me to join the Superfine Dinettes, her home spun performance art troupe, to march in the Mermaid Parade.

So forevermore, Superfine’s three owners, Tanya Rynd, Cara Lee Sparry and Laura Taylor will always march inside the pages of MERMAIDS ON PARADE. Their creativity allows me a place to go where women are smart, strong, own their power and are respected for it. I plan on interviewing all the owners.

Today we start with Tanya Rynd, a natural impresario, consummate people person and a community connector. Her goal is to present live art and music to the public. I’ve always wondered what goes on inside the mind of someone who runs a restaurant while booking musicians, curating art shows, who also writes, paints and performs.

Q: When did you start to march in the Mermaid Parade?

TR: In 1997 I went to the Mermaid parade with Cara Lee Sparry. I wore two inch long silver eyelashes, a silver dress and a plastic fish as a necklace. Watching the parade I felt swept up in the tide of mermaids instantly. The next year I began to march in the parade and have continued consistantly for the next 10 years. In 1998 I found my mermaid name, Mermaidra, Queen of the Deep. Cara Lee who is a genius costumer has always been my comrade in creating and living the mermaid parade.

The Parade is a ritual for the summer solstice - the longest day of the year. King Neptune and Queen Mermaid have opened up the sea for all mermaids to walk on land for one day. In all of their forms, in all their diversities, the sea creatures spill onto the streets and boardwalk. What is truly remarkable about the parade is that it encompasses so much creativity and self expression. Just when I thought that I came up with something original and smart there is always someone else’s interpretation of the this ritual that makes me marvel with awe and laughter. A tremendous tidal pool of so many great minds in the ocean of New York, I always feel the parade is a celebration of the imagination! One of my all time favorite troupes in the parade was "Sushi and the Banshees" where all the members were pieces of sushi, including wasabi boy. The parade is an experience where adults can be as smart as children and children can be smarter than the adults because they already impart fantasy and imagination as reality. Towards the end of the parade the King and Queen lead us through the four seasons, cutting ribbons, and opening the ocean. For me, Melanie's book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE captures the very essence of why the parade is important- she captured the actual ritual and celebration of the creative and playfulness of being alive whether it be on the land or the sea.

Q: What is the evolution of the Superfine Dinettes?

TR: In 2002, I formed a mermaid dance troupe that later became known as The Superfine Dinettes. We are a group of women who gather specifically to march in the parade, to create a theme and dance presentation that changes each year. We are diehard mermaids, many of us imbue the lore and fantasy of the mermaid. The dance troupe is about self expression as
strong women/mermaids, and really about having fun. Some take turns choreographing numbers; we all join in picking music and creating the theme of our costumes, then personalizing that costume to oneself. Here are some of the examples of our Mermaid Parade Names that the Superfine Dinettes created:

2002: Dolly Parton Huki Lau, Nookie Laters
2003: The Esther Williams Fin Club
2004: Mermaids Gone Wild
2005: The Mermod Squad
2006: The East River Mermaids
2007: The Ladies Mermalade
2008: The Hip Hop Hula Mermaids
2009: TBA

Q: How does Superfine connect the arts community together?

TR: All three owners, Tanya Rynd, Cara Lee Sparry and Laura Taylor are artists and were pioneers in Dumbo as artists and residents long before Superfine was even created. One of the main goals for Superfine and reasons we created Superfine was to connect the community with each other, which is an art in itself. To also create a space that supported art and music and was an actually living art piece. As one of the directors and producers of Superfine I feel that everyday we succeed in being present as a space that is dedicated to artists. Every three weeks we present an artist (painter, photographer, installation artist, illustrator, collaborater, collage...) on our thirty foot art wall. We present local musicians every week for over eight
years. Every day I am engaged in hearing about, promoting and encouraging other people's independent dreams and art projects. One of my goals in our project is that people would come together there to actively communicate with each other, that the art of networking one on one would be present and it is! I have always wanted people to be engaged with each other and to participate. I feel that Superfine encourages people, even in how it is designed, to dare to express themselves. The art of making food everyday with love does translate to the people and I think our food connects our community together as well.

Thank you, Tanya aka Mermaidra, Queen of the Deep!

Superfine sells MERMAIDS ON PARADE at 126 Front St Brooklyn 718.243.0095

Photos
* Tanya Rynd at her recent birthday party
* Tanya rehearsing with the Dinettes 2005
* Tanya in MERMAIDS ON PARADE
* Mermaid Parade 2008
* Tanya performing at her recent birthday party.
Photo Credits: Herb Hernandez

School Visits: PS 58 Residency - Part 3

2009-03-06T13:07:00.011-05:00

PS 58 Part 1
PS 58 Part 2
Brooklyn Heights Blog PS 58

I finished the PS 58 residency with the second graders on February 25, 2009. A community was built. Garbage became art. Something to value rather than throw away. Shout to all the students I met at PS 58. Love Nature and yourselves. It’s all connected.

Candy Store

Hotel

Pizza Place

Gamestop

Apartment building

What’s this going to be?

The student's community grew quickly.

Photo: Melanie Hope Greenberg, art teacher, Megan Driscoll and assistant art teacher, Jane Rothberg with Barack Obama.
Photo Credit: Regina Rosario

School Visits: The Neighborhood School-PS 63

2009-03-06T12:41:00.006-05:00

I returned to present two author-illustrator workshops in the library for PS 63 and The Neighborhood School in the East Village. Both schools share the same library. I had been there in 2005. School librarian, Cheryl Wolf, had received over 150 books I had to read for the 2005 SCBWI Golden Kite Awards when I was the judge. It was great to see how the books filled up her library shelves. First and second graders became acquainted with my books. I read from MERMAIDS ON PARADE and drew what the students suggested. Thanks for inviting me again!

Image: Melanie Hope Greenberg and Cheryl Wolf in the library at PS 63-The Neighborhood School.

COMMUNITY / Mom and Pop Stores Interview: Exit 9

2009-03-02T20:04:00.006-05:00

During October 2007, Exit 9 Gift Emporium owners Christy Davis and Charles Branstool opened their second shop at 127 Smith Street in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. They felt connected to the community because they lived in the neighborhood. It was their misson "to provide creative and inspirational gifts in a world that is quickly becoming a department store”.

The neighborhood also knew Christy as the drummer in the popular kid rock band, Audra Rox. And their daughter, Stella, attends PS 58.
I am so happy and grateful that Exit 9 carries my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE.

Q: Why did you decide to open Exit 9 in Brooklyn? How long have you been in Cobble Hill?

Charles: There were a couple reasons why we wanted to open in Brooklyn. We have lived in the Carroll Gardens/Cobble Hill area for over a decade. We witnessed the transformation that took place on Smith St (and Brooklyn as a whole). And we saw the business opportunities that were opening up there. But more importantly, we both wanted a work place that was close to home.

Christy: I had to convince Charles to open another store as he was growing tired even with just the one store. We would often talk about the "what ifs" of the East Village store in terms of our lease running out, being priced out, etc, so I thought it wise to open another store in a neighborhood that had nothing like Exit 9. Fortunately it happened to be in our neighborhood. It's been a lot of work, but in the end, I'm glad we opened the Brooklyn location.

Q: How does your "mom and pop" store support the neighborhood?

Charles: Yes, we are literally a "Mom and Pop" store. We actively donate to the public school system. Our daughter is a student at PS 58 and our store is located very close to PS 261. We have built a very symbiotic relationship with both places. We work closely with the PTA by donating many items to the school functions and advertising in their publications. And in return, we get a lot of support from that part of the community.

Christy: In addition to school fundraisers, we have donated to many other organizations such as the Lower East Side Girls Club, organizations that help underprivileged children & women, NYU Law students, etc. It feels good to help out the community.

Q: When did you start marching in the Mermaid Parade?

Christy: I honestly can't remember the year exactly, but I think it was around 1998. I went with my two dear friends, Tanya and Cara Lee, who own Superfine restaurant and who, (as you very well know Melanie) are diehard Mermaid Parade participants!

Q: What is your favorite thing about marching in the Mermaid Parade?

Stella: I love to be able to see some of my friends that I don't see very often and I love to be able to hula hoop with them. I really have a lot of fun the whole day and it's really great!

Q: Anything else coming up with your very creative family?

Christy: I just bought an electric guitar and I am going to be doing a recording with my friend Matt. I have recorded many many times with bands or for other people's projects, but this will be my first time recording by my songs by myself. (Well, I will be calling on some friends to play certain instruments, but it's my project.) Oh, and Stella will be playing piano on a couple of songs as well. I am really looking forward to it!!

Thanks Charles, Christy and Stella!

I love the mom and pop stores. I write and illustrate books about the laundormant and the supermarket. My father owned a luncheonette when I growing up in the Bronx and I wrote a book about it.
Support your local merchants!

Photo Credit Top: MKMetz

United States Bookstores Carry Melanie's Books

2009-03-02T19:00:00.016-05:00

Here's where you can find my books in the United States.
A special shout out to these stores. THANKS!!

If you are a bookstore or find a bookstore that carries my titles,
I'll link that store on the blog. Please let me know.
Contact at my website.

* BLUE MARBLE CHILDREN'S BOOKSTORE (Kentucky)
* DAVIS-KIDD BOOKSTORE (Tennessee)
* ERIC CARLE MUSEUM (Massachusetts)
* FUNDAMENTALS PARENT-TEACHER STORE (Ohio)
* LIFT BRIDGE BOOK SHOP (New York)
* MAZZA MUSEUM (Ohio)
* MERRITT BOOKS (New York)
* STORYBOOK COVE (Massachusetts)
* THAT BOOKSTORE IN BLYTHEVILLE (Arkansas)
* THE BRIAR PATCH 27 Central St, Bangor, Maine 04401, 207-941-0255
* WHALE'S TALE (New Jersey)

UNIT: Parades

2009-02-23T16:43:00.006-05:00

Happy Mardi Gras Day! Everybody loves a parade!
A perfect setting for community.

From 1903 thru 1954 a parade called a Mardi Gras celebrated the end of the summer season on Coney Island.
Now the Summer Solstice, the first day of summer, is celebrated at the Mermaid Parade. It is the largest art parade in the United States.

Here are other kinds of parades:
Carnival in Brazil
Chinese New Year
Easter Parade
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
New Orleans Mardi Gras
New York’s Village Halloween Parade
Pride Parade

New York City’s mayor loves MERMAIDS ON PARADE, he sent Melanie a note. Click on image to enlargen.

More books about parades
”Pippa At the Parade”
”Easter Parade”

Image: detail from MERMAIDS ON PARADE published GP Putnam’s Sons

COMMUNITY / Public Library * Interview

2009-02-17T10:17:00.005-05:00

A librarian's love of books is sincere, they are not involved with bookstore sales and numbers. Librarians just love books, books we might never hear about. They believe we will love these books too.

Libraries promote free choice about what to read and are for everyone, rich and poor. I did not own many books growing up in the Bronx and borrowed books from the Classon Point Branch.

After visiting many libraries to give programs in neighborhoods of all five boroughs, I clearly see that the library is vital to children, especially those with two working parents, or economically stretched parents. It is vital to all kinds of people. The library is a haven of knowledge, a gateway to building self-esteem; they create exposure to what the world is about and bring communities together for a higher purpose: learning.

Two librarians from the Brooklyn Public Library Central Branch Youth Wing, David Mowery and Deloris McCullough, talked about what was needed on their bookshelf. I listened. That discussion gave me the idea for my book, MERMAIDS ON PARADE. Here is more of what they have to say:

Q: Why is the library an important part of a community?

A: People rely on the public libraries for the vast array of programs and services for all ages and the increased use of libraries in this economic downturn.  Libraries themselves are suffering because of our changing economy, but our institutions have grown and prospered throughout harder times in history, primarily due to the support of their patronage.

Q: Why does the library invite picture book authors and illustrators to give programs?

A: To promote literacy and foster a love of reading and books.

Q: What is the impact on young readers when they meet the authors and
illustrators?

A: For many young readers, these encounters bring books to life in a unique setting with the added bonus of having their gift copy of the book signed by the author or illustrator.

Q: How do you know what subject matter is missing on the bookshelves?

A: Through our Collection Development practices and policies, librarians, and customer requests from materials lacking in the collection.

Thank you so much, David and Deloris.

Image L to R : During the MERMAIDS ON PARADE book launch-art exhibition at Superfine, BPL's David Mowery is having fun with Tim Travaglini, my editor at Putnam, and NYPL's Betsy Bird.

Mermaids on Parade

My Eric Carle Museum NEA Grant Visit

School Visits: *Authors and More* in Austin, Dallas and Houston, Texas

How I Create an Illustration 3 - SCIENCE

School Visits: Dayton Bookings

Second Visit to the Eric Carle Museum

PS 250 Brooklyn Asks Questions

How I Create an Illustration 2

Artists in My Book / *Sue Schmitt* Interview

TLA, Cybils, New School and FREE Coloring Pages

2010 Wrap-Up

How I Create an Illustration

"Drawn In Brooklyn" Curator Interview- John Bemelmans Marciano

"Drawn In Brooklyn" Exhibition

Melanie's List of Links

Free Coloring Page/ School Visits

Librarians, Bookstores and FREE Coloring Page

Spring into Summer

FREE Coloring Page

Book Weekend

Mother's Day Weekend Events

It's Earth Day * Go Green

Signed Prints from MERMAIDS ON PARADE

Norman Rosten

I Love the Library Kids

Women's History Month Celebration

Montessori Students Create Theater from My Picture Book

Artists in my Book/ *Evan Reynolds* Interview

Brooklyn Celebrates It's Author-Illustrators

2009 Wrap Up

Artists In My Book / *Bill Carney* Interview

COLLECT MELANIE'S BOOKS

MERMAIDS ON PARADE / *Award - News*

Queens and Crowns Part 2 / *Miss Brooklyn 2009* Interview

Artists in My Book / *Petra Hanson* Queens and Crowns Part 1

Great Timer *Miriam Cohen*

Events / Presentation at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art

Artists In My Book / *Veronica Otto*

Melanie's Interview with WORDSWIMMER

Artists In My Book / *Tim Gerken* Interview

Illustration / Costumes and Characters

Illustration / Interview with Art Director *Cecilia Yung*

Superfine Wins Silver *Mermaid Parade'09*

UNIT: Mermaids / *Interview with Melanie*

MERMAIDS ON PARADE* 2 Booksignings Celebrate the Mermaid Parade

Artists in My Book / *Herb Hernandez* Interview

Art Exhibition / Curator *Barbara Wing* Interview

Artists in My Book / *Jay Asher* Interview

*CONTEST* Win FREE Autographed Books!

Costumes and Characters / *Virpi Kanervo* Interview

Cheryl and Betsy's BEA Bash

Artists In My Book / *Shannon Kerner* Interview

Association of Booksellers for Children Visits Melanie's Exhibition at the Brooklyn Central Library

Writing and Illustrating / Dummies Are Not Dumb

MERMAIDS ON PARADE wins an honor

Mermaid Parade Season Has Started

The Dweck is Gweat!

Picture Book Art

Artists in My Book / *Alex Battles* Interview

Brooklyn Blog Fest '09 Recap

I LOVE DUMBO/ DUMBO Loves Melanie's Books

Events / Brooklyn Designs 5/10/09

Melanie's Library Exhibition / TV Interview

Writing / Editors *Interview with Timothy Travaglini

Picture Book Art

School Visit / PS 122 Letters and Questions

School Visit / Daniel Warren Elementary 4/22/09

Melanie's Art Exhibition / FREE and Open to the Public

Melanie's Art Exhibition * Brooklyn Central Library * So Grand

Artists in My Book / Laura Sewell

COMMUNITY / Teachers

EVENTS/ PS 58 Art Show

EVENTS/ The Moxie Spot

ARTISTS IN MY BOOK * Tanya Rynd *

School Visits: PS 58 Residency - Part 3

School Visits: The Neighborhood School-PS 63

COMMUNITY / Mom and Pop Stores *Interview: Exit 9*

United States Bookstores Carry Melanie's Books

UNIT: Parades

COMMUNITY / Public Library * Interview

School Visits: Authors and More in Austin, Dallas and Houston, Texas

Artists in My Book / Sue Schmitt Interview

Artists in my Book/ Evan Reynolds Interview

Artists In My Book / Bill Carney Interview

MERMAIDS ON PARADE / Award - News

Queens and Crowns Part 2 / Miss Brooklyn 2009 Interview

Artists in My Book / Petra Hanson Queens and Crowns Part 1

Great Timer Miriam Cohen

Artists In My Book / Veronica Otto

Artists In My Book / Tim Gerken Interview

Illustration / Interview with Art Director Cecilia Yung

Superfine Wins Silver Mermaid Parade'09

UNIT: Mermaids / Interview with Melanie

Artists in My Book / Herb Hernandez Interview

Art Exhibition / Curator Barbara Wing Interview

Artists in My Book / Jay Asher Interview

CONTEST Win FREE Autographed Books!

Costumes and Characters / Virpi Kanervo Interview

Artists In My Book / Shannon Kerner Interview

Artists in My Book / Alex Battles Interview

COMMUNITY / Mom and Pop Stores Interview: Exit 9