Today is the day A BIG SURPRISE FOR LITTLE CARD is officially out in the world. Written by Charise Harper and published by Candlewick Press, it tells the story of a rectangular fellow who is sent to birthday card school, only to discover it was all a big mistake. As Kirkus Reviews said, "Check it out!"
If you'd like to meet me and Little Card in person, I have some events scheduled over the next few months. The first one will be at one of my favorite local bookstores, BookCourt in Brooklyn on Sunday, February 21st at 2PM. In addition to reading the story, we're going to get crafty. Everyone will get a chance to make their own Little Card to color, decorate, and take home. There will also be buttons (custom-made by my esteemed author Charise), singing (yikes—that means me—but just briefly, thank goodness!), and cookies.
If you haven't seen it yet, I made a trailer for Little Card a few months ago—but don't worry, it doesn't give away much of the story. Making trailers has become one of my favorite parts of the publishing process. Since my "production" usually takes place long after my illustrations have been delivered for print, it's a nice way to revisit a story, and figure out a way to best share it with readers...without really sharing it. The Booklist Reader had some nice things to say, "As if the book wasn't lively enough…"
Okay, well it's time to party, or at least ask Little Card if he's willing to share some of that yummy-looking cupcake. He's a super nice guy, so I think my chances are good.