Shout Out: Maria Marshall A Picture Book Haven


Maria Marshall is a fellow SCBWI member hailing from North America. She's a seasoned traveller, avid wildlife photographer and passionate contributor to all things Kids' Lit who loves using picture and chapter books to make reading and nature fun for children. I might never have met her had our paths not crossed at the Sydney Australian East New Zealand SCBWI Conference last February, (thanks to Vivian Kirkfield who introduced us!) As Maria states, encounters like these spur inspiration and that special kind of camaraderie and admiration that lingers long after the flight home.
Maria Marshall (left) seen here with fellow conference delegates, authors: Jennifer Loakes and Janet Reid

Maria impressed me immediately with her attentiveness and drive to absorb as much of my exuberant volley of picture book love as I could fire at her (rushed exchanges are often the norm at these events). We both knew we wanted to share more and after she allowed me to sign a very personal copy of At The End of Holyrood Lane for her, she invited me to be part of the wonderful sanctuary of picture book love she's created on her blog, Picture Book Buzz.

Here is the completed interview with her (click on my image below for link) plus her review of Holyrood Lane that followed. I was over-the-moon delighted to be part of this consistently caring and informative haven where children's book creators both new, emerging and well and truly established are invited to share 'the magic and rust' of this great industry along with their books and some great insider tips. Do pop on by for a visit.

The Picture Book Buzz interview by Maria Marshall

Incredibly, Maria is indulging on all things Dim this month. Check out her spot on review of, Pippa.

"...a real pleasure to read. One that will be enjoyed over and over. And a book sure to spark a few discussions, and perhaps some soul-searching, by parents and kids."

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