Arree, please share about your experience of connecting with books as a child. What positive memories do you have?
My parents were new immigrants and were struggling to learn the English language themselves, so I don’t recall reading a lot of picture books when I was young. I do remember Dr. Suess’s bold colors in his books.
I was more of a late reader. I loved Shel Silverstien’s books of poems. Where the Sidewalk Ends is probably my favorite. I became an avid reader in middle school. My favorite books were James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (practically anything from Ronald Dahl) and Mrs. Frisbee and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien. Those books engaged my imagination. I don’t think I’ve stopped dreaming ever since.
Tell us about your experiences of being an adult and reading to a child or children. What are your favorite aspects of sharing good books with kids?
The best feeling I have as an artist is seeing kids’ faces light up when they see your work. You can see their imaginations kick into gear. When I present, I make sure to show them how a book just starts with an idea. I call it “daydreaming on paper.” Sharing good books is so important because it engages the imagination—and if you can imagine something, then you can make anything happen. I love this quote by Albert Einstein: “If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales.”
Please share your thoughts on and tips for sharing good books with children.
I love the idea of daydreaming on paper. Your daydreams have produced some delightful books. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us today, Arree.
Good news! Arree is giving away a signed copy of Ninja to one person who comments on this blog. What a fun book to share with a child you love! I’ll draw the winning name on Saturday, July 25.
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I like these thoughts about imagination and daydreaming! Inspiring…
I think so, too, Renee. I love hearing about how authors and illustrators perceive their process.
Ninja is a favorite of my favorite five-year-old. Love the illustrations, text, and tone!
It’s a fantastic book, isn’t it, Beck? I think Arree’s voice and his artwork create an immensely fun book. No wonder your favorite five-year-old loves it!
I love these books! As a non-Armenian speaking parnet these books have not only been engaging and entertaining for my children, but educational for us as well. My kids get a kick out of listening to their mom speak Armenian words and look forward to reading as many books as we can in one night! Thanks for bridging the gap!
Love the illustrations and loved the post. Can’t wait to check out this book!
It’s terrific, Lynne Marie. Really fun!
it looks SO fun! Love his art!
Me too, Zebo. Your art is pretty fantastic too!