Congratulations to Betsy for correctly identifying our authors today, and to Karen, who knew the title for the first one. Thanks for playing.
52. Our first author wrote over 300 books, mostly for preschoolers. Some of his books are so popular that children (and adults) can recite them years after reading them. Another popular author, Eric Carle, illustrated a few of this author’s books. One of his titles starts with Brown... Can you name this beloved author?
Bill Martin Jr. (actually William Ivan Martin) wrote many children’s classics, such as Brown Bear Brown Bear, What Do You See? and the ABC thriller Chicka, Chicka, Boom, Boom. As a child he had struggled to learn to read for many years. Once he did finally master reading, he was highly motivated to create books that would help young children who might be struggling. He even earned a PhD in early childhood education. Not bad for someone who couldn’t read in fifth grade.
This adorable video shows Bill Martin Jr. reading Brown Bear Brown Bear, What Do You See?
For just a small sampling of Bill Martin Jr.’s books, see:
53. Our second author is known for her absolutely beautiful illustrations. Her books often show adorable animals dressed in fine knits, such as hats or mittens, either accidentally or on purpose. She writes that she wanted to be an illustrator when she was a young child. According to her website, her books have sold over thirty six million copies, so it seems she has succeeded! Do you recognize this fine illustrator?
If you have never seen Jan Brett’s website, you should stop over. She is a treasure! If you have children who love to color, be sure to check out the coloring pages. Then there’s the “How to Draw” videos, too. Any child (and child at heart) that enjoys art will have a great deal of fun on Jan Brett’s website.
And be sure to try out some of her sweet books, too.