Even in the midst of a pandemic, December has been a month full of gifts. Maybe it’s the mistletoe, but I’ve been feeing it - so fortunate to be on the receiving end of several incredible gestures of love and support, as 2020 comes to a close.
One present was the opportunity to gush about books and writing to my book debut group, PB Debut Troupe 21. (Goodness, I’m so humbled to call these authors peers and friends!) It was a blast dishing about my earliest picture book memories (Little Golden Books), favorite authors (many!) and trusty writing snack (peanut butter topped with Mini M&Ms). Here’s the link to my interview on our Troupe Tales blog. Hope you enjoy it!
Then, as I was scrolling Instagram, an illustration popped into my feed: A sneak peek of my debut picture book, DANCING WITH DADDY, which will publish in October 2021 (Two Lions)!! The art is gorgeous and completely conveys the joy, sparkle and intimacy I felt when writing the manuscript. Thank you Ziyue Chen for your phenomenal vision and art! I can’t wait to share more soon. Stay tuned… cover coming January 2021, most likely!
Illustration by Ziyue Chen
And again this holiday season, our house has been bursting at the seams with books for nonprofit Leading with Literacy on Chicago’s South Side. We received more donations than ever before in our 4th annual Holiday Book Drive Chi year! This month and into early 2021, Pastor Michael Neal of Leading with Literacy will be sharing more than 700 new books with young readers in Bronzeville and surrounding neighborhoods. Pastor Neal and I are blown away by the generosity of authors, publishers and literacy friends from all across the country - in the midst of COVID, no less. Book joy is most certainly alive and well, and our hearts are so grateful! Visit the Holiday Book Drive 2020 blog post to see all the books donated this year. Incredible gifts!
Sharing stories and life happenings here is a continual source of great happiness and blessings. I have many of your Christmas cards hanging in my dining room, and I cannot tell you how much joy it brings me to see your smiling faces throughout my day. Longing for the time when we can exchange hugs and laughs in person… hopefully soon!
Sending my holiday best to each and every one of you! I pray you feel all the love there is for you, in our earthly world and in the kingdom of heaven - xo Anitra