Coming in 2012: Red Hook Summer by Spike Lee. As a Red Hook girl born and raised, I cannot wait to see this! http://www.40acres.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1758:behind-the-scenesred-hook-summer-wall&catid=42:blog&Itemid=245
Hope you all had a peaceful Thanksgiving. Remember to be Thankful all year long!
Friday, November 25, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Columbia University & Me
This past Sunday, I had the pleasure of reading from The Trouble with Half a Moon at Columbia University as part of their Let's Read program. It was terrific! I had such a good time. Lamar Lovelace, from the Office of Community Outreach, is an awesomely funny and friendly guy. I also met author, Michael Buckley, of the Sisters Grimm and the N.E.R.D. book series. What a cool and generous dude! My daughter was starstruck and whipped out her phone to tweet about it-- all while being very covert about it of course.
As always, it was fun hanging out with Torrey Maldonado. Once again, he mesmerized the audience with a reading from his book, Secret Saturdays!
As always, it was fun hanging out with Torrey Maldonado. Once again, he mesmerized the audience with a reading from his book, Secret Saturdays!
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| Me just before starting |
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| Torrey doing his thang |
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| Signing! Yay! Isn't that room amazing? |
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| Me & Torrey hamming it up afterward |
Friday, October 7, 2011
Me Hokey???
Just read something somewhere by someone who thought my name was a pen name-- even thought it was hokey. Welp ... it's my real name. First name is for my grandfather, Daniel. Last name taken on when I got married.
I might have to spell out my first name almost every time I meet someone new or over the phone ... "D" as in David etc., and sales people may smile or giggle when they see Vigilante, but it's all good. Wouldn't change my name for nuthin' or nobody. Me hokey? Nah, don't be silly.
Here's to a great weekend everyone!
I might have to spell out my first name almost every time I meet someone new or over the phone ... "D" as in David etc., and sales people may smile or giggle when they see Vigilante, but it's all good. Wouldn't change my name for nuthin' or nobody. Me hokey? Nah, don't be silly.
Here's to a great weekend everyone!
Friday, September 23, 2011
Wha???
Don't have a clue why the last post looks like that! Can't get it right for some reason. Sorry...
Will you come see me Thursdays and Saturdays? What have you got to lose?
Oops! I meant, on SUNDAY, October 16th. *SNORT* Gas up the car, replenish your MetroCard or just tie up your laces because I’ll be reading from The Trouble with Half a Moon at Columbia University’s Low Library, located at 535 West 116th Street between Amsterdam and Broadway. And, I wanna see you there!
Check eeet out! I’m so excited!
| 1:00pm | Performance by The Harlem Chamber Players | |
| 1:15pm | Welcome Remarks: Marcia Sells, Associate Dean, Office of Community Outreach, Columbia University School of the Arts & Associate Dean, Office of Government and Community Affairs, Columbia University | |
| 1:20pm | Welcome Remarks: Amanda McGee, Trade Book Manager, Columbia University Bookstore | |
| 1:25pm | Author: Steven Savage | Book: “Where’s Walrus?” |
| 1:40pm | Author: Jenny Ofill & Nancy Carpenter | Book: “11 Experiments That Failed” |
| 1:55pm | Author: E.D. Baker | Book: Frog Princess Series and “Wings” |
| 2:10pm | Author: Torrey Maldonado | Book: “Secret Saturdays” |
| 2:25pm | Author: Danette Vigilante | Book: “The Trouble with Half a Moon” |
| 2:40pm | Author: Michael Buckley | Book: Sister’s Grimm Series and “Nerds” |
| 3:00pm | Performance by Notes and Keys (TBD) | |
Friday, September 9, 2011
The Red Hook Star Revue
Ya know, I never mentioned (at least I don't think I have) that I write a monthly article for my hometown paper, The Red Hook Revue. You can check it out here if you'd like (I'm on page two): http://www.redhookstar.com/
Friday, September 2, 2011
A Day with the Animals
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| Spent today doing the Safari thing at Six Flags. It. Was. So. Much. Fun! This guy is my new best friend. |
His Friend wanted in on the action. "Hey save some for me!"
Saturday, August 27, 2011
What the Wha ...??
An earthquake and a hurricane in one week? This has been one strange (and FAST) summer. I admit I’m looking forward to being stuck in the house with my family this weekend as we wait out the storm. We’re not in an evacuation zone so that’s a big plus. I’ve got a pot of soup cooking on the stove and cornbread in the oven. We’ve got movies on an iPad and my nook is fully charged. And, board games are more fun when played by candlelight, don’t you think?
I’m still making my way through SAVING BABY DOE edits. It sure is s l o w going but I’m going. I can’t wait to hit the point where I can print and read it out loud.
Hope you’ve had a great summer!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
AARP Rocks!
And I'm a part of it! Oh yeah, I always wanted to rock something other than ... a boat? Errr ... okay, so I'm still wearing my life jacket. Land Hooooo ...
Anyway.
A few months ago, I was approached by the really cool and awesome Erasmo Guerra about doing an interview on what it's like being a Latina children's author. Of course I was honored (like, whoohoo-for realsies? me?-get out! kind of honored) and agreed. My fellow Red Hooker, Torrey Maldonado, is also included. It's really a wonderful article. Check it out if you get the chance.
http://www.aarp.org/entertainment/books/info-08-2011/young-adult-books-for-latinos.html
Anyway.
A few months ago, I was approached by the really cool and awesome Erasmo Guerra about doing an interview on what it's like being a Latina children's author. Of course I was honored (like, whoohoo-for realsies? me?-get out! kind of honored) and agreed. My fellow Red Hooker, Torrey Maldonado, is also included. It's really a wonderful article. Check it out if you get the chance.
http://www.aarp.org/entertainment/books/info-08-2011/young-adult-books-for-latinos.html
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
What is your VIV moment?
Your VIV moment is that moment when everything *clicks* for you. VIV Magazine contacted me a while ago and wanted to include my moment in the July/August issue and I couldn't be happier. The magazine is pretty awesome and I'm honored to be a part of it.
If you'd like to check it out, here's the link: http://www.zinio.com/pages/VIVmag/Jul-Aug-11/416176471/pg-150
In other news ... I'm hacking my way through Baby Doe edits. Some days my machete is dull and other days it's a sharp little thing. Oh, I likey the sharp days.
Also, am I the only one who doesn't like fireworks?
If you'd like to check it out, here's the link: http://www.zinio.com/pages/VIVmag/Jul-Aug-11/416176471/pg-150
In other news ... I'm hacking my way through Baby Doe edits. Some days my machete is dull and other days it's a sharp little thing. Oh, I likey the sharp days.
Also, am I the only one who doesn't like fireworks?
Monday, June 13, 2011
Reading, Friends & Fun
Had a great time with my buddies, Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich, author of 8th Grade Super Zero and Torrey Maldonado, author of Secret Saturdays at our book signing at B & N in Brooklyn. I heart them both!
The next day I visited my childhood library-- The Red Hook Library in Brooklyn. I can't tell you how happy I was to be there. As a kid, I spent a lot of time there sniffing in that gorgeous book smell and peeking underneath the plastic book covers to see what the 'real' covers looked like. AND now, my book sits on those same shelves! A big thank you to Donna and the staff for inviting me!
Can you tell how much fun I had?
Monday, June 6, 2011
Oh, the places I'll be ...
This Thursday, June 9th at 7pm, I'll be at Barnes & Noble located on 7th Avenue & 6th Street in Brooklyn. And, guess what? I won't be alone! Yay! I'll be with two of my writing friends-- Olugbemisola Amusashonubi-Perkovich, author of Eighth Grade Superzero and fellow Red Hooker, Torrey Maldonado, author of Secret Saturday's. There's also a chance for you to win a $30 B & N gift card!
The very next day, I'll be at the Red Hook Library (the place where I learned to love reading) located at 7 Wolcott Street (between Lorraine and Otsego Streets), also in Brooklyn.
On the writing end, I just received my second editorial letter for Finding Baby Doe so that's what I'll be working on this summer (with a small break for going on a much-needed-pre-planned-oh-thank-goodness-vacation). Send me some good vibes when you get the chance, okay? I'll be your best frienddddd ...
I hope to see you soon! :)
The very next day, I'll be at the Red Hook Library (the place where I learned to love reading) located at 7 Wolcott Street (between Lorraine and Otsego Streets), also in Brooklyn.
On the writing end, I just received my second editorial letter for Finding Baby Doe so that's what I'll be working on this summer (with a small break for going on a much-needed-pre-planned-oh-thank-goodness-vacation). Send me some good vibes when you get the chance, okay? I'll be your best frienddddd ...
I hope to see you soon! :)
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Stop, Look & Listen ...
This is the best speech I HAVE ever heard. It's worth watching and absorbing-- trust me. JK Rowling: The fringe benefits of failure Video on TED.com
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Puppies, Visits & Spring
So yeah, house training Luna could be going better. I thought she’d pick it up from Noodle, my Yorkie, right away but … I’m not that lucky. Noodle is so good too! He NEVER goes in the house. As a matter of fact, he doesn’t do regular dog stuff. No eating shoes, carpets, couches, NOTHING. He is a scratch hog though. If he’s near you and your hands aren’t busy doing something, he insists you scratch him. I’m hoping Luna will learn soon. I am loving her to pieces anyway.
Last Friday, I visited with the students at Notre Dame Academy. First with grades 4 - 6, then with the 8th graders who have read TROUBLE as assigned reading and who are doing research on Red Hook Brooklyn, my hometown; the place where I imagine TROUBLE to take place. All of the students were just awesome! They asked great questions which made it more of a conversation. I laughed so much, especially with the 8th graders. One of the girls—and this just warms my heart beyond belief—is going to use one of Miss Shirley’s quotes for her contribution to the year book! It just happens to be one of my favorites too. We both love Miss Shirley! Here’s the quote:
“Never minus good deeds from yourself, there are plenty of people in this world who will do that for you.”
If that wasn’t enough, yesterday I received individual fan mail from the students. Each one gave me goose-bumps and some even made me tear up. One girl didn’t like to read. In her words, she thought reading was for nerds. BUT NOW, since reading my book and not being able to put it down, she loves reading! THAT’S what it’s all about. Yeah, I’m doing the Hokey Pokey and I am shaking it all about! Okay, not really but I should!
By the way, I am loving, loving, loving, the trees in bloom. One is prettier than the next. They just make me so happy. I am looking at the buds on the tree right outside my window and they have literally burst overnight. They’re bright green and when the sun is setting, they glow. I could watch them for hours.
Dear Spring, you make my heart & soul sing …
Last Friday, I visited with the students at Notre Dame Academy. First with grades 4 - 6, then with the 8th graders who have read TROUBLE as assigned reading and who are doing research on Red Hook Brooklyn, my hometown; the place where I imagine TROUBLE to take place. All of the students were just awesome! They asked great questions which made it more of a conversation. I laughed so much, especially with the 8th graders. One of the girls—and this just warms my heart beyond belief—is going to use one of Miss Shirley’s quotes for her contribution to the year book! It just happens to be one of my favorites too. We both love Miss Shirley! Here’s the quote:
“Never minus good deeds from yourself, there are plenty of people in this world who will do that for you.”
If that wasn’t enough, yesterday I received individual fan mail from the students. Each one gave me goose-bumps and some even made me tear up. One girl didn’t like to read. In her words, she thought reading was for nerds. BUT NOW, since reading my book and not being able to put it down, she loves reading! THAT’S what it’s all about. Yeah, I’m doing the Hokey Pokey and I am shaking it all about! Okay, not really but I should!
By the way, I am loving, loving, loving, the trees in bloom. One is prettier than the next. They just make me so happy. I am looking at the buds on the tree right outside my window and they have literally burst overnight. They’re bright green and when the sun is setting, they glow. I could watch them for hours.
Dear Spring, you make my heart & soul sing …
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
If You Need Some Inspiration ...
I have some for you. I've already decided to watch it at least once a day. We all need a daily vitamin, right?
Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkrYX9EGUpM
Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkrYX9EGUpM
Monday, February 28, 2011
A New Love and a Book Festival
We've added a new addition to our family and we didn't have to wait nine months to meet her. Here'sssss Luna!
Isn't she just ... so darn cute? She's part Lhasa Apso and part Poodle= a Lhasa Poo. And, she's just two pounds! I think Noodle, our Yorkie, is like, "Yeah, yeah, she's cute and all but when is she leaving?" And Daisy, our grumpy cat, is saying "Excuse me, but I just know you don't think she's staying here!"
On the book side, I'm participating in the 2011 Teen Author Festival along with some mighty-fine author's! Hope to see you there. Here's the line up:
Monday, March 14 (Chatham Square Branch of the NYPL, 33 E Broadway., 6-8):
Finding Voice, Giving Voice: Speaking Up for Characters
Authors:
Cathleen Bell
Jen Calonita
Cecil Castellucci
Brent Crawford
Elizabeth Eulberg
Brian James
Kekla Magoon
Melina Marchetta
Marie Rutkoski
Moderator: David Levithan
Tuesday, March 15 (B&N Union Square, 7-8:30):
YA Reader’s Theater
Authors:
Holly Black
Judy Blundell
Gayle Forman
Eliot Schrefer (aka E. Archer)
Host: David Levithan
Wednesday. March 16 (South Court, 6-8):
YA Rocks, featuring Tiger Beat!
Tiger Beat:
Libba Bray
Daniel Ehrenhaft
Barnabas Miller
Natalie Standiford
With music-related readings from:
Philana Marie Boles
Libba Bray
Barnabas Miller
Jon Skovron
Jeri Smith-Ready
Rita Williams-Garcia
Host: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
Thursday, March 17 (Five Borough Read, 10-12):
Manhattan:
Seward Park Branch, 192 E Broadway, Manhattan, 10am
Alma Alexander
Philana Marie Boles
Leanna Renee Hieber
Lena Roy
Mark Shulman
96th Street Branch, 228 E 96th St, Manhattan, 10am
Violet Haberdasher
Kimberly Marcus
Micol Ostow
Eliot Schrefer
Natalie Standiford
Washington Irving H.S (in conjunction with Mulberry St Branch) - 40 Irving Place, 10am.
Eireann Corrigan
Jocelyn Davies
Anne Heltzel
Matt de la Pena
Patrick Ryan
Leila Sales
Muhlenburg Branch, NYPL, 209 W 23rd St
Alexandra Bullen
Helen Ellis
Sarah Mlynowski
Matthue Roth
Adrienne Maria Vrettos
Robin Wasserman
Brooklyn
Central Branch, Brooklyn Public Library, Dweck Auditorim, 10 Grand Army Plaza
Cathleen Bell
Gayle Forman
Christopher Grant
Melissa Kantor
Jeri Smith-Ready
Melissa Walker
Bronx:
Bronx Library Center, 310 E Kingsbridge Road, Bronx
Margie Gelbwasser
Sarah Darer Littman
Arlaina Tibensky
Maryrose Wood
Queens:
Library TK
Brent Crawford
Barry Lyga
Melina Marchetta
Neesha Meminger
Staten Island:
St George Branch, 5 Central Ave, Staten Island, 10am
Elizabeth Eulberg
David Levithan
Michael Northrup
Danette Vigilante
Friday, March 18th, morning (Scholastic, 557 Broadway), 10am
Scholastic Event
Reading/Signing:
Alexandra Bullen
Judy Blundell
Libba Bray
Elizabeth Eulberg
Kim Harrington
Sarah Darer Littman
Michael Northrup
Patrick Ryan
Eliot Schrefer
Maggie Stiefvater
Signing only:
Eireann Corrigan
Aimee Friedman
Barry Lyga
Michael Northrop
Matthue Roth
Lisa Sandell
Samantha Schutz
Natalie Standiford
Suzanne Weyn
Friday March 18th, Symposium (South Court, 42nd Street, 2-6)
2:00 Introduction
2:10 – 3:00: Telling the Truths – Hard Topics, Illuminating Fiction
Authors:
Eireann Corrigan
Donna Freitas
Sarah Darer Littman
Kimberly Marcus
Micol Ostow
Moderator: DL
3:00 – 3:50: Debut Author Showcase
Authors:
Jocelyn Davies
Margie Gelbwasser
Christopher Grant
Anne Heltzel
Kimberly Marcus
Arlaina Tibensky
Moderator: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
3:50 – 4:00: Break
4:00 - 5:00: I Think I Love You (But Maybe I Don’t?) – Writing About Teens in Love
Authors:
E. Lockhart
Terra Elan McVoy
Sarah Mylnowski
Patrick Ryan
Moderator: David Levithan
5:00 – 6:00: Under the Influences: Discussing Influences on YA Fiction
Authors:
Libba Bray
Alexandra Bullen
Susane Colasanti
Barry Lyga
Carolyn Mackler
Lena Roy
Adrienne Maria Vrettos
Maryrose Wood
Moderator: Barry Lyga
Saturday. March 19th, Symposium (South Court, 42nd Street, 1-5:30)
1:00 – Introduction
1:10 – 2:00: The Ties That Bind, Part One: The Struggle Against Darkness
Kim Harrington
Lisa McMann
Maggie Stiefvater
Robin Wasserman
Moderator: David Levithan
2:00 – 2:45: The Ties That Bind, Part Two: Family Bonds
Melissa Kantor
Melina Marchetta
Alyssa Sheinmel
Natalie Standiford
Danette Vigilante
Moderator: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
2:45 – 3:30: The Ties That Bind, Part Three: Friends and Community
Matt de la Pena
Torrey Maldonado
Michael Northrop
Leila Sales
Moderator: Barry Lyga
3:30-3:40 – Break
3:40 – 4:20 – Tribute to Michael Cart
Host/Opening: Jack Martin
Speakers/Readers: David Levithan and Jacqueline Woodson
Acceptance: Michael Cart
4:20-5:30: LGBTYA: Past, Present, and Future
Nick Burd
Michael Cart
David Levithan
Martin Wilson
Jacqueline Woodson
Moderator: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
Sunday afternoon:
Books of Wonder Signing (1-4)
Authors:
1-1:45
Lizabeth Zindel (A Girl, A Ghost, and the Hollywood Hills, Penguin)
Maryrose Wood (The Hidden Gallery, Harper)
Suzanne Weyn (Empty, Scholastic)
Danette Vigilante (The Trouble with Half a Moon, Penguin)
Maggie Stiefvater (Linger, Scholastic)
Natalie Standiford (Confessions of the Sullivan Sisters, Scholastic)
Mark Shulman (Scrawl, Roaring Brook)
Alyssa Sheinmel (The Beautiful Between, RH)
Kieran Scott (She’s So Dead to Us, S&S)
Leila Sales (Mostly Good Girls, S&S)
Patrick Ryan (Gemini Bites, Scholastic)
1:45-2:30
Marie Rutkoski (The Celestial Globe, FSG)
Lena Roy (Edges, FSG)
Michael Northrup (Trapped, Scholastic)
Sarah Mlynowski (Gimme a Call, RH)
Neesha Meminger (Jazz in Love, Ignite)
Terra Elan McVoy (After the Kiss, S&S)
Lisa McMann (Cryer’s Cross, S&S)
Kimberly Marcus (Exposed, RH)
Melina Marchetta (The Piper’s Son, Candlewick)
Torrey Maldonado (Secret Saturdays, Penguin)
Barry Lyga (Archvillain, Scholastic)
2:30-3:15
E. Lockhart (Real Live Boyfriends, RH)
Sarah Darer Littman (Life After, Scholastic)
David Levithan (Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares, RH)
Melissa Kantor (The Darlings Are Forever, Hyperion)
Carla Jablonksi (Resistance, First Second)
Gwendolyn Heasley (Where I Belong, Harper)
Kim Harrington (Clarity, Scholastic)
Christopher Grant (Teenie, RH)
Margie Gelbwasser (Inconvenient, Flux)
Elizabeth Eulberg (Prom & Prejudice, Scholastic)
Helen Ellis (The Turning, Sourcebooks)
3:15-4
Daniel Ehrenhaft (Friend is Not a Verb, Harper)
Sarah Beth Durst (Enchanted Ivy, S&S)
Matt De La Pena (I Will Save You, RH)
Brent Crawford (Carter Finally Gets It, Hyperion)
Eireann Corrigan (Accomplice, Scholastic)
Susane Colasanti (Something Like Fate, Penguin)
Marina Budhos (Tell Us We’re Home, S&S)
Kate Brian (Book of Spells, S&S)
Philana Marie Boles (Glitz, Penguin)
Judy Blundell (Strings Attached, Scholastic)
Cathleen Bell (Little Blog on the Prairie, Bloomsbury
On the book side, I'm participating in the 2011 Teen Author Festival along with some mighty-fine author's! Hope to see you there. Here's the line up:
Monday, March 14 (Chatham Square Branch of the NYPL, 33 E Broadway., 6-8):
Finding Voice, Giving Voice: Speaking Up for Characters
Authors:
Cathleen Bell
Jen Calonita
Cecil Castellucci
Brent Crawford
Elizabeth Eulberg
Brian James
Kekla Magoon
Melina Marchetta
Marie Rutkoski
Moderator: David Levithan
Tuesday, March 15 (B&N Union Square, 7-8:30):
YA Reader’s Theater
Authors:
Holly Black
Judy Blundell
Gayle Forman
Eliot Schrefer (aka E. Archer)
Host: David Levithan
Wednesday. March 16 (South Court, 6-8):
YA Rocks, featuring Tiger Beat!
Tiger Beat:
Libba Bray
Daniel Ehrenhaft
Barnabas Miller
Natalie Standiford
With music-related readings from:
Philana Marie Boles
Libba Bray
Barnabas Miller
Jon Skovron
Jeri Smith-Ready
Rita Williams-Garcia
Host: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
Thursday, March 17 (Five Borough Read, 10-12):
Manhattan:
Seward Park Branch, 192 E Broadway, Manhattan, 10am
Alma Alexander
Philana Marie Boles
Leanna Renee Hieber
Lena Roy
Mark Shulman
96th Street Branch, 228 E 96th St, Manhattan, 10am
Violet Haberdasher
Kimberly Marcus
Micol Ostow
Eliot Schrefer
Natalie Standiford
Washington Irving H.S (in conjunction with Mulberry St Branch) - 40 Irving Place, 10am.
Eireann Corrigan
Jocelyn Davies
Anne Heltzel
Matt de la Pena
Patrick Ryan
Leila Sales
Muhlenburg Branch, NYPL, 209 W 23rd St
Alexandra Bullen
Helen Ellis
Sarah Mlynowski
Matthue Roth
Adrienne Maria Vrettos
Robin Wasserman
Brooklyn
Central Branch, Brooklyn Public Library, Dweck Auditorim, 10 Grand Army Plaza
Cathleen Bell
Gayle Forman
Christopher Grant
Melissa Kantor
Jeri Smith-Ready
Melissa Walker
Bronx:
Bronx Library Center, 310 E Kingsbridge Road, Bronx
Margie Gelbwasser
Sarah Darer Littman
Arlaina Tibensky
Maryrose Wood
Queens:
Library TK
Brent Crawford
Barry Lyga
Melina Marchetta
Neesha Meminger
Staten Island:
St George Branch, 5 Central Ave, Staten Island, 10am
Elizabeth Eulberg
David Levithan
Michael Northrup
Danette Vigilante
Friday, March 18th, morning (Scholastic, 557 Broadway), 10am
Scholastic Event
Reading/Signing:
Alexandra Bullen
Judy Blundell
Libba Bray
Elizabeth Eulberg
Kim Harrington
Sarah Darer Littman
Michael Northrup
Patrick Ryan
Eliot Schrefer
Maggie Stiefvater
Signing only:
Eireann Corrigan
Aimee Friedman
Barry Lyga
Michael Northrop
Matthue Roth
Lisa Sandell
Samantha Schutz
Natalie Standiford
Suzanne Weyn
Friday March 18th, Symposium (South Court, 42nd Street, 2-6)
2:00 Introduction
2:10 – 3:00: Telling the Truths – Hard Topics, Illuminating Fiction
Authors:
Eireann Corrigan
Donna Freitas
Sarah Darer Littman
Kimberly Marcus
Micol Ostow
Moderator: DL
3:00 – 3:50: Debut Author Showcase
Authors:
Jocelyn Davies
Margie Gelbwasser
Christopher Grant
Anne Heltzel
Kimberly Marcus
Arlaina Tibensky
Moderator: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
3:50 – 4:00: Break
4:00 - 5:00: I Think I Love You (But Maybe I Don’t?) – Writing About Teens in Love
Authors:
E. Lockhart
Terra Elan McVoy
Sarah Mylnowski
Patrick Ryan
Moderator: David Levithan
5:00 – 6:00: Under the Influences: Discussing Influences on YA Fiction
Authors:
Libba Bray
Alexandra Bullen
Susane Colasanti
Barry Lyga
Carolyn Mackler
Lena Roy
Adrienne Maria Vrettos
Maryrose Wood
Moderator: Barry Lyga
Saturday. March 19th, Symposium (South Court, 42nd Street, 1-5:30)
1:00 – Introduction
1:10 – 2:00: The Ties That Bind, Part One: The Struggle Against Darkness
Kim Harrington
Lisa McMann
Maggie Stiefvater
Robin Wasserman
Moderator: David Levithan
2:00 – 2:45: The Ties That Bind, Part Two: Family Bonds
Melissa Kantor
Melina Marchetta
Alyssa Sheinmel
Natalie Standiford
Danette Vigilante
Moderator: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
2:45 – 3:30: The Ties That Bind, Part Three: Friends and Community
Matt de la Pena
Torrey Maldonado
Michael Northrop
Leila Sales
Moderator: Barry Lyga
3:30-3:40 – Break
3:40 – 4:20 – Tribute to Michael Cart
Host/Opening: Jack Martin
Speakers/Readers: David Levithan and Jacqueline Woodson
Acceptance: Michael Cart
4:20-5:30: LGBTYA: Past, Present, and Future
Nick Burd
Michael Cart
David Levithan
Martin Wilson
Jacqueline Woodson
Moderator: Jack Martin / Chris Shoemaker
Sunday afternoon:
Books of Wonder Signing (1-4)
Authors:
1-1:45
Lizabeth Zindel (A Girl, A Ghost, and the Hollywood Hills, Penguin)
Maryrose Wood (The Hidden Gallery, Harper)
Suzanne Weyn (Empty, Scholastic)
Danette Vigilante (The Trouble with Half a Moon, Penguin)
Maggie Stiefvater (Linger, Scholastic)
Natalie Standiford (Confessions of the Sullivan Sisters, Scholastic)
Mark Shulman (Scrawl, Roaring Brook)
Alyssa Sheinmel (The Beautiful Between, RH)
Kieran Scott (She’s So Dead to Us, S&S)
Leila Sales (Mostly Good Girls, S&S)
Patrick Ryan (Gemini Bites, Scholastic)
1:45-2:30
Marie Rutkoski (The Celestial Globe, FSG)
Lena Roy (Edges, FSG)
Michael Northrup (Trapped, Scholastic)
Sarah Mlynowski (Gimme a Call, RH)
Neesha Meminger (Jazz in Love, Ignite)
Terra Elan McVoy (After the Kiss, S&S)
Lisa McMann (Cryer’s Cross, S&S)
Kimberly Marcus (Exposed, RH)
Melina Marchetta (The Piper’s Son, Candlewick)
Torrey Maldonado (Secret Saturdays, Penguin)
Barry Lyga (Archvillain, Scholastic)
2:30-3:15
E. Lockhart (Real Live Boyfriends, RH)
Sarah Darer Littman (Life After, Scholastic)
David Levithan (Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares, RH)
Melissa Kantor (The Darlings Are Forever, Hyperion)
Carla Jablonksi (Resistance, First Second)
Gwendolyn Heasley (Where I Belong, Harper)
Kim Harrington (Clarity, Scholastic)
Christopher Grant (Teenie, RH)
Margie Gelbwasser (Inconvenient, Flux)
Elizabeth Eulberg (Prom & Prejudice, Scholastic)
Helen Ellis (The Turning, Sourcebooks)
3:15-4
Daniel Ehrenhaft (Friend is Not a Verb, Harper)
Sarah Beth Durst (Enchanted Ivy, S&S)
Matt De La Pena (I Will Save You, RH)
Brent Crawford (Carter Finally Gets It, Hyperion)
Eireann Corrigan (Accomplice, Scholastic)
Susane Colasanti (Something Like Fate, Penguin)
Marina Budhos (Tell Us We’re Home, S&S)
Kate Brian (Book of Spells, S&S)
Philana Marie Boles (Glitz, Penguin)
Judy Blundell (Strings Attached, Scholastic)
Cathleen Bell (Little Blog on the Prairie, Bloomsbury
Monday, February 14, 2011
A Heart-y Thank You to SLJ
Get it? It's Valentine's Day--- HEART-Y? Yeah, I just crack my corny-self up. On to the news of the day. I just received word of a great review from School Library Journal!
Here's a bit of it:
"Dellie’s story will speak to young people who’ve needed a little faith to get them through tough times. Interesting scenarios, like the cloaked Jamaican woman who moves in next door, provide interest to an already well-developed story."
I HEART them! *Snort*
Later this week I'll be meeting with the New York Coalition Against Hunger to discuss how I might become involved in their annual Spring event. I'm excited. It's something close to my heart ----> there's that word again ... I'm also going to be visiting my old Junior High School! I can't even remember what it looks like inside. It's gonna be fun!
Here's a bit of it:
"Dellie’s story will speak to young people who’ve needed a little faith to get them through tough times. Interesting scenarios, like the cloaked Jamaican woman who moves in next door, provide interest to an already well-developed story."
I HEART them! *Snort*
Later this week I'll be meeting with the New York Coalition Against Hunger to discuss how I might become involved in their annual Spring event. I'm excited. It's something close to my heart ----> there's that word again ... I'm also going to be visiting my old Junior High School! I can't even remember what it looks like inside. It's gonna be fun!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Welcome Back, Idol!
I'm tired so I'll try to make this quick. IDOL HAS REDEEMED ITSELF! Or should I say, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler did? I say yes, they did! After last season, I decided not to watch anymore. I mean Kara and Ellen really didn't cut it for me. I like Ellen but, eh? AND, Kara. Oh, Kara. After what happened with bikini girl ... um, eww. Tacky.
Enough of that.
Lots of great singers but the last guy tonight, Travis Orlando? O.M.G. Heartbreaking. Talented. Cute. Inspiring. YES, please. I hope he goes all the way. Bring it on home, papi!
Good night!
Enough of that.
Lots of great singers but the last guy tonight, Travis Orlando? O.M.G. Heartbreaking. Talented. Cute. Inspiring. YES, please. I hope he goes all the way. Bring it on home, papi!
Good night!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Thank You, BCCB
I am ever so grateful for the recommended review I received from The Bulletin of the Center of Children's Books. Here's some of what they said:
"... Vigilante has a nice way with subplots and solid daily-life details that bring the book particular warmth. Life in the projects, with a few criminals making things tough for the decent people, and with a vertical neighborhood of interconnected relationships created in the apartment building, is portrayed with candor and even some affection.
... the story is told with considerable appeal and accessibility, and kids won't have to lead the same life as Dellie to recognize her travai."
Thank You, BCCB! You've made my day.
"... Vigilante has a nice way with subplots and solid daily-life details that bring the book particular warmth. Life in the projects, with a few criminals making things tough for the decent people, and with a vertical neighborhood of interconnected relationships created in the apartment building, is portrayed with candor and even some affection.
... the story is told with considerable appeal and accessibility, and kids won't have to lead the same life as Dellie to recognize her travai."
Thank You, BCCB! You've made my day.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
I just want to do God's will. And he's allowed me to go to the mountain. And I've looked over, and I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you, but I want you to know tonight that we as a people will get to the promised land. So I'm happy tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man.
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Indies & Libraries, Oh My!
I had a wonderful day talking to indies and librarians yesterday. First, the stores themselves were just beautiful; from the selections to the décor. The people I spoke to were just really warm and welcoming. And the libraries! Big, small, new (three floors!) & old (charming—complete with creaky wood floors and big fireplaces with mantels). The librarians were, in a word, AWESOME! Not only that, but check this out people:
I almost kissed my beautiful book but I think the guy in the background (see first pic) would've really thought I was NUTS! I was already waving my arms and hopping.
I simply heart the library. After all, this writing stuff quietly began inside of one.
I simply heart the library. After all, this writing stuff quietly began inside of one.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
And the Beat Goes On
Visited five libraries today and met five awesome librarians! Thank you all for making me feel so comfortable. Tomorrow, letters go out to schools and Saturday, New Jersey indies, here I come!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Doing Right by Red Hook
Congratulations to all the writers who've made the "Quick Pick" list and especially to my friend, fellow Red Hooker/Penquin brother, Torrey maldonado!
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/booklistsawards/quickpicks/qp2011.cfm
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/booklistsawards/quickpicks/qp2011.cfm
Sunday, January 9, 2011
These Boots Were Made for Walking
Though I didn't spy The Trouble with Half a Moon sitting on a shelf, I did meet some awesome booksellers who placed orders for it! For my SI peeps: Clove Lakes Bookstore on Victory/Clove Rd. and B&N on Richmond Ave placed orders and should be getting it in, I'd say by Wednesday. For my Brooklyn peeps, B&N on Court and Atlantic, Bookcourt on Court Street, The BookMark Shoppe on 3rd Ave (I'm also having an event there in March, will keep you posted), Greenlight Book Store on Fulton Street and B&N on 7th Ave. So, go forth and read!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Hello, My Name Is:
I'm on my way out to visit some awesome indie booksellers today! Will I spy The Trouble with Half a Moon? I'll keep you posted!
Friday, January 7, 2011
The Trouble with Half a Moon Release Day
For years, I imagined the wonderful party I’d have the day my book was released; the cake with my cover on it, the music, the food, the dancing and the people. But when the time came, I wasn’t feeling a party. The only excuse I can come up with for this change of heart is that I must’ve played the party over and over in my head so much that I was partied out!
While I didn’t have a party, I did have a really, really nice day. In fact, it felt better than my birthday! First, a great lunch with friends and family, then later in the day, a great dinner with my parents. After dinner, I visited a couple of bookstores and introduced myself. One box store and one indie. Both were very nice and are placing orders since they didn’t have the book in stock, but the people in the indie also spoke of having an event in their store! Kewl, I say! And THANKS, too!
On another note, back in September or October (can’t remember which right now) I started writing a monthly column for, The Red Hook Star-Revue (Brooklyn, NY). Last month, they interviewed me and yesterday, they ran the article complete with a big copy of TROUBLE’S cover. I stared at it for a few seconds and once again, I was reminded of just how much I’m in love with it.
*Sigh*
Anyway, check out this awesome gift my sister-in-law/bff gave me at lunch. It’s so perfect!
Thanks, Michele!
While I didn’t have a party, I did have a really, really nice day. In fact, it felt better than my birthday! First, a great lunch with friends and family, then later in the day, a great dinner with my parents. After dinner, I visited a couple of bookstores and introduced myself. One box store and one indie. Both were very nice and are placing orders since they didn’t have the book in stock, but the people in the indie also spoke of having an event in their store! Kewl, I say! And THANKS, too!
On another note, back in September or October (can’t remember which right now) I started writing a monthly column for, The Red Hook Star-Revue (Brooklyn, NY). Last month, they interviewed me and yesterday, they ran the article complete with a big copy of TROUBLE’S cover. I stared at it for a few seconds and once again, I was reminded of just how much I’m in love with it.
*Sigh*
Anyway, check out this awesome gift my sister-in-law/bff gave me at lunch. It’s so perfect!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
On The Eve of Publication ...
My book, The Trouble with Half a Moon, will be released into the wild tomorrow. I wrote as hard as I could. I laughed and I cried writing and reading it. I truly feel this story is one that was meant to be told. After all, I have carried it in my heart for years and years. I hope you enjoy it. It is yours now. I hope it touches you; inspires you somehow. Do whatever it is meant to do. I believe with all that I am that it has a purpose. I hope it finds you.
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