Chalk drawing with kids outside of the library

Chalk drawing with kids outside of the library

Howdy, ya’ll! I had a chance to present my newest book, Ten Texas Babies, written by David Davis and co-illustrated by my husband, Jeff Crosby, and me, during the West Austin Studio Tour at the Twin Oaks Library’s Celebration of Picture Books.

Other presenters included Bethany Hegedus with her book Grandfather Gandhi, which she co-wrote with Arun Ghandi, grandson of the Mahatma; Don Tate and his book, Black All Around; and Jeff Crosby, with his book, Rockabilly Goats Gruff. The event was co-created by Amy Farrier, illustrator coordinator of the Austin chapter of the SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators). The awesome Rockabilly band Ruby Dee and the Snakehandlers finished off the event! See more photos here.

Jeff Crosby and his rockabilly goat hand puppet in a hot rod car

Jeff Crosby and his rockabilly goat hand puppet in a hot rod car

After each reader, children had a chance to craft!

After each reader, children had a chance to craft!

Don Tate shows original art to kids

Don Tate shows original art to kids

Bethany, an elephant and Grandfather Gandhi

Bethany, an elephant and Grandfather Gandhi

Ruby Dee and the Snakehandlers rockin' it—Jorge Harada from behind the photo booth

Ruby Dee and the Snakehandlers rockin’ it—Jorge Harada from behind the photo booth