From Reader to Writer: Helping Children Discover the Story They Want to Tell
A Simple Creative Writing Activity to Inspire Fiction, Nonfiction, and Young Imaginations. Every story begins somewhere. Sometimes it begins with a...
Welcome to JoAnn's Resource Library
Whether you're a parent, teacher, librarian, reader, or fellow author, you'll find articles filled with storytelling inspiration, reading tips, educational resources, creative activities, and behind-the-scenes insights into the books and adventures that inspire my work.
Turning Story Time Into STEAM Learning
Story time doesn't have to end when you close the book. In fact, sometimes that's when the learning really begins. Children's books can be wonderfu...
The Benefits of Coloring: More Than Staying Inside the Lines
Coloring is often one of the very first creative activities children enjoy. With a box of crayons and a blank page, their imagination takes over. A...
Teaching Perseverance Through Children's Books
Children face challenges every day. Whether they're learning to read, solving a difficult math problem, making new friends, or trying something for...
Why Curiosity Is One of the Greatest Gifts We Can Give Children
One of the things I love most about children is their endless curiosity. They ask questions adults might never think to ask. "Why is the sky blue?"...
5 Ways Reading Together Builds Confidence and Curiosity
One of the greatest gifts we can give children isn't found in a toy store or wrapped in a box; it's the simple act of reading together. Whether it'...
Where My Children's Book Ideas Come From
The Stories Behind My Stories Have you ever wondered where an author's story ideas come from? People often ask if my books are based on real experi...
The Truth About Self-Publishing and Book Marketing (What Authors Need to Know)
Self-publishing sounds simple… until you try to market your book. In this video, I’m sharing the hard truths about self-publishing and marketing t...
What Would Your Child Do If a Mysterious Door Opened by Itself? | A Spooky Middle-Grade Adventure
What happens when curiosity leads to something… unexpected? In Secrets of Hawthorne Manor, Jack and his friends discover a mysterious door inside a...
Children’s Authors: Don’t Show Up to Events Unprepared.
Children’s Authors: Don’t Show Up to Events Unprepared.Book festivals, farmers markets, and school events can be amazing opportunities to sell book...
The Real Cost of Self-Publishing a Children’s Book
Self-publishing a children’s book isn’t free — but it doesn’t have to break the bank. In this post, I’m breaking down the real costs many authors f...
"Virtual Author Visit: Inspiring Young Readers at Hamilton Avenue School"
"I had a wonderful time visiting Ms. James’ second-grade class at Hamilton Avenue School! Inspired by Elliott’s heartfelt letter, I joined the cla...