Hi Everyone!
Welcome to the first “official” issue of the “On The Bookshelf” newsletter, meant to share a love of storytelling, upcoming author events, projects, and favorite reads — especially picture books.
I’ve been sharing some of my “Waverly Braves the Breeze: The Story of a Galapagos Albatross” author updates on the newsletter platform and my other Facebook and Instagram accounts (follow along @author.samanthacora) already, but this newsletter sent to your inbox is meant to connect you with more events and stories written and illustrated by other creators, too!
If you’re receiving this, you may also be subscribed to my “In A Nutshell” newsletter, which connects families with upcoming nature and creative play events in Dane County, WI, recommended by my organization Playful Acorns. I hope you’ll find some of these resources helpful!
Clockwise from bottom left: Tracy Phillippi, Alina Loux, Samantha Cora Christian Haas
Join the Lakeside Children’s Book Writers
What happens when a picture book author (Samantha Cora), an author/illustrator (Alina Loux), and a librarian in the process of self-publishing (Tracy Phillippi) meet for a coffee talk at Lakeside St. Coffee House in Madison? As if these moms don’t already have enough on their plates…they inevitably become friends and start a children’s book writers group!
And you’re invited! Do you have an idea for a book? Do you love to draw for your children or grandchildren? Is publishing a book on your bucket list? There are no group rules or requirements...EVERYONE is welcome - let's inspire each other to follow the dream! If you’re interested in attending at 9 a.m. the 4th Friday of every month, please contact me and I’ll add you to our group email to get updates!
Plus, mark your calendars for these storytimes organized by the co-founders!
Learn more about Alina Loux's new picture book, "May You Always Find Wonder," and download the accompanying Wonder Walk Cards at alinaloux.com!
Storytime with Alina Loux in Verona
Come hear local award-winning children’s author and illustrator Alina Loux read her new book, "May You Always Find Wonder," at Kismet Books in Verona at 11 a.m. Sunday, December 15th! There will also be a butterfly-themed activity! Click here for more details.
This tender story is about a mother and daughter, the magic they share, and what happens when it’s forgotten. Perfect for anyone who’s ever longed to reconnect with the wonder of childhood, this book will stay with you long after the last page.
Through December, the book launch celebrates shopping small and supporting local businesses. The book is available exclusively on the author’s website (www.alinaloux.com) and at these beloved local bookstores: Kismet Books (Verona), Ink Cap Books (Stoughton), and Lake City Books (Madison). Each copy is marked as an early copy, signed, and numbered to thank you for shopping small.
Use the discount code INTHE608 to buy 2 and get 1 free. And you can also get a free download of the accompanying Wonder Walk Cards that can be printed to transform your next stroll into an adventure of wonder and connection! Learn more about Alina’s other books and these deals here:
After Alina’s event in Verona, the young and young at heart are invited to take a drive to Cottage Grove for the unveiling of their new outdoor StoryWalk!
Join Library Programming and Outreach Specialist Tracy Phillippi and other members of the Village of Cottage Grove Library Board for a Winter StoryWalk Celebration to read "Owl Babies" and more activities!
Winter StoryWalk Celebration in Cottage Grove
In 2024, the Village of Cottage Grove Library Board & Parks Department collaborated to bring the first permanent StoryWalk to their community! At 2 p.m. Sunday, December 15th, join them by celebrating the StoryWalk and spread some holiday cheer at Community Park in Cottage Grove.
An acapella group from Monona Grove High School will be performing carols, the Friends of the Cottage Grove Library will be serving free hot chocolate, and Santa himself will make an appearance!
Don't forget to take a stroll past the storywalk to read a winter classic, "Owl Babies" by Martin Waddell and illustrated by Patrick Benson! When three baby owls awake one night to find their mother gone, they can’t help but wonder where she is. What is she doing? When will she be back? What scary things move all around them? This tender tale reminds kids that mommy always comes back. Learn more here.
Join me for a storytime reading "Something, Someday" by Amanda Gorman next week in Paoli.
Musical Playdate and Storytime in Paoli
Need to move your body? Sing? Dance? Breathe? Play? Listen to stories? Join me (Sam with Playful Acorns) and Angie with The Wonder Studio for another Musical Playdate and Storytime from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Thursday, December 19th at Seven Acre Dairy in Paoli.
The theme is Sprinkle of Hope, and I have a great book lined up for our storytime following the music class before we get out some fun toys to play: “Something, Someday” by Amanda Gorman and illustrated by Christian Robinson. This event is geared toward kids ages 0-5 and their caregivers ($20/family, register in advance here).
Hope to see you there!
