Angela Burke Kunkel – författare

This stunning and lyrical picture book biography details the life and art of celebrated children's book creator, Barbara Cooney.For every kid who loves art, here is the inspirational story of beloved illustrator and two-time Caldecott Medalist, Barbara Cooney.    Barbara was born in a hotel in Brooklyn, with a view of the city and the sea. Her father loved numbers and money. But Barbara and her mother loved art, and color, and light. Barbara’s favorite days were when she stayed home sick in bed and got to paint and draw.    In the summers, they left New York for Maine, where Barbara scrambled among the rocks, wind whipping her hair, light sparkling on the water. Summer was grey, and blue, and green, and free.    When Barbara grew up, she ventured out into the world with an art portfolio—she thought she might like to illustrate books. And she did,  creating classics like Miss Rumphius, Island Boy, and Hattie and the Waves.    Her character Miss Rumphius said, you must do something to make the world more beautiful. And that is exactly what Barbara did. It's a message that's sure to inspire young readers and creators today.

A poignant picture book about a boy caught between two homes, who finds peace and belonging with his grandfather and the snow geese that return each year.On a weekend when mom can't have him, and dad can't either, a young boy stays with his pops. He sleeps on the couch, and pops wakes him early, when it's still dark. After a ride in the old truck, past farms and houses that are still sleeping, they pull off the main road. Wrapped in plaid blankets and holding a too-hot thermos of cocoa, they wait. Side by side. Listening. Watching. And then—a sound. A sky filled with wings. And then a field transformed, turning bright white. The snow geese have arrived.With a lyrical voice and breathtaking illustrations, here is the deeply moving story of a child navigating a challenging family situation, and discovering comfort and connection with the rhythms of nature--and with a loving, present grandfather.