Post by Gayle M. Irwin
This is Children’s Book Week, a time to celebrate kids, kids’ books, and children’s authors. Three of my four current published works are written for children (but adults seem to enjoy them as well!), and I’ve been fortunate to visit a few classrooms this past month in preparation and celebration of Children’s Book Week.
As a writer (and a reader) I’ve been influenced by many authors, most notably Laura Ingalls Wilder. Mrs. Wilder was my inspiration during my youth – I read all her “Little House” books, and I’ve read her works several times during my adult years as well. Growing up in southeastern Iowa, I related to her farm life, particularly in Missouri where she spent her later years. That home is located near Mansfield, MO – my maiden name is Mansfield, and combining those factors, I was thrilled when my parents took me to visit Laura’s farmstead on a journey through 
Missouri when I was in high school. I visited again in 2007 when my husband and I traveled through the area on our way back to Wyoming from visiting his parents in North Carolina. Sage was with us then; the weather that December in southern Missouri was stunning, and as we walked the grounds of Rocky Ridge Farm, I reflected the impact Mrs. Wilder has had on children, youth, and adults since her first book was published in 1931 when she was 65 years old. My first book had been published earlier in 2007, and my in-laws, quite excited, had purchased two copies for their local library outside of Charlotte, NC; I had started school visits as well. My book career began the year I was able to again visit my author heroine’s property.
As you read my stories of long ago I hope you will remember that things truly worthwhile and that will give you happiness are the same now as they were then. It is not the things you have that make you happy. It is love and kindness and helping each other and just plain being good. – Laura Ingalls Wilder
There are many great childeren’s books about a wide variety of topics and in a multitude of genres, some splashed with important life lessons. I write about dogs and weave positive lessons in my stories; I discover such valuable nuggets in others’ works. Some of my favorite dogs books for kids (besides my own!) are A Dog’s Life: The Autobiography of a Stray by Ann Martin; Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo; and The Tale of Two Bobbies by Kirby Larson. Ms. Larsen also writes historical fiction for kids – her Hattie Big Sky series is delightful! I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and talking with Ms. Larson, and, like Mrs. Wilder, I look up to Kirby for her accomplishments and her craft.
Gayle reading to children at The Knowledge Nook, toys & books in Casper
Though I’m not on the same level as the two women authors I admire, I recently shared some of my stories at an event for families. We used the timing as a way to honor Moms, Kids and Dogs, for Mother’s Day, Children’s Book Week, and Be Kind to Animals Week. The event exposed youngsters and their families to a local author (me), someone who composes stories for them. I love sharing my writing with families in such settings, and I think it’s great when authors go to libraries and schools – how I would have enjoyed meeting a real author when I was a kid!
So, this week, during Children’s Book Week, expose your kids (or grandkids, nieces or nephews) to some great books – perhaps even take them to an author event. Share your favorite children’s book with them – maybe one you’ve written.
What books did you read as a child or teen? Who was/is your favorite children’s author?
Happy Children’s Book Week!
Children are made readers on the laps of their parents. – Emilie Buchwald, author
Gayle M. Irwin is the author of inspirational dog books for children and adults. Her children’s books include Sage’s Big Adventure, Sage Learns to Share, and Cody’s Cabin: Life in a Pine Forest. These stories teach children the value of those who are different with lessons in respect, courage, and perseverance. Cody’s Cabin includes a nature journal and vocabulary words, making a wonderful addition to homeschool science lessons. Her adult nonfiction, Walking in Trust: Lessons Learned with My Blind Dog, is a devotional-style book with 30 chapters on various topics, such as patience, loyalty, friendship, kindness, and love, among others. Learn more about her writing and speaking endeavors at www.gaylemirwin.com. She and her recently adopted dog, Mary, are certified as a dog therapy team; Mary often accompanies Gayle on her speaking engagements. A book about rescue dogs is in the making and will include Mary’s story.
This post by Jennifer Flaten
Keira's Place 