Instagram Story Viewer

Happy World Read Aloud Day!!! Come and read my debut picture book with me on @readbrightly Storytime on @YouTube! 🎉

For years, I watched read alouds read by authors with my students and children on @youtube and now I get to be on it! Excuse me while I go scream, cry, and jump for joy! 🤯😭🥳

Thank you for all the love because as of today, we are up to 40k views!!! 🌸

If you love it, please consider purchasing it and reviewing it @amazon and @goodreads!

Link in bio for the link to the @YouTube read aloud!

https://youtu.be/DMyNJN1mzv0

Happy World Read Aloud Day!!! Come and read my debut picture book with me on @readbrightly Storytime on @YouTube! 🎉

For years, I watched read alouds read by authors with my students and children on @youtube and now I get to be on it! Excuse me while I go scream, cry, and jump for joy! 🤯😭🥳

Thank you for all the love because as of today, we are up to 40k views!!! 🌸

If you love it, please consider purchasing it and reviewing it @amazon and @goodreads!

Link in bio for the link to the @YouTube read aloud!

https://youtu.be/DMyNJN1mzv0

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I am so incredibly excited to share that The Jade Bracelet is an @americanlibraryassociation (ALA) 2026 Notable Children’s Book! ✨🫶😭

Selected by a committee of literary expertsfrom across the country through a rigorous process of vetting and voting virtually and in-person that spanned over a year, which included thousands of book submissions for consideration, The Jade Bracelet is recognized for its commendable and distinguished quality, venturesome creativity, and is worthy of note!!!

For book creators in the Industry, ALA Awards and Recognition are highly coveted and one of the highest literary achievements to receive.

I poured my heart into writing this story after my mom passed away and felt the weight of each word on the page as if I were carrying the memories and stories of us on my shoulders. I wanted to make her proud. I wanted to make sure her legacy of love continued on through my writing, but then I began to worry.

I worried if I did it justice. I wondered if I could have written it better even after publication. I even doubted my own writing when I threw myself into the realities of book promotion and began comparing myself with other amazing authors.

Then out of the blue, this news came. 😭

Thank you, the Association for Library Service to Children, for recognizing my work and helping me keep these cherished memories of my mom alive. 💚

I can’t believe this little book of mine is on the same Notable List as books I grew up reading and loving:

-The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
-Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
-The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
-Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
-The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (1969)

Thank you, friends for coming along on my journey and supporting me these past 3 years! Your love and encouragement really mean so much to me!

Here are all the Young Readers on the list this year!

Link in bio the complete list.

https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb

#alanotablechildrensbook #alanotablechildrensbookaward

I just received the first book of my three-book Lu-Finds a Way Chapter Series, Ly-Lan and the New Class Mix-Up with @zonderkidz and illustrated by the amazingly talented @tracybishopart !

I’m so incredibly excited and can’t wait for June 3rd when it will officially be released into the world!!!

Sometimes things don’t turn out the way we plan! In this chapter book series about a daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, Ly-Lan navigates her life as a new third grader—complete with old and new friends, unexpected (and disappointing) changes at home and school, and finding a way to thrive.

Third grade is not starting the way Ly-Lan pictured. First, her best friend Cece is put in another class—even after Ly-Lan prayed they would be in the same one. And then Ly-Lan is tasked with showing the new Vietnamese student around. Ly-Lan wants to hang out with Cece, not play translator to the new girl, and she doesn’t understand why her prayers aren’t being answered. If Ly-Lan is going to flourish in third grade, she must learn to trust in God’s plans, especially when it means making some adjustments to her own.

Ly-Lan and the New Class Mix-up:

Is the first in a series of illustrated early chapter books about Ly-Lan, a third grader tackling familiar themes like friendship, overcoming obstacles, and navigating changes in life with grace.

Perfect for kids ages 6 and up or reluctant or emerging readers just starting to read chapter books on their own.

Is an encouraging read for reluctant readers with its illustrated chapters.

Link in bio to preorder the book now!!!

https://www.zonderkidz.com/book/9780310174899/ly-lan-and-the-new-class-mix-up/

Do you need AAPI teaching resources for the month of May and all year long?

Check out @teachaapi Classroom Starter Pack for all “introductory framework for implementing AAPI curriculum, cultural deep dives, lesser-known history lessons, affinity group discussion modules, a curated book list, and holistic educator support —designed to help bring meaningful, engaging content into the classroom and beyond!”

It’s all inclusive in one pack for your classroom needs! Click on my link in bio or go to @teachaapi now for all the deets!

Which ones do you already have in your library?!!!

Me? All of them!!! 🌟

@randomhousekids @harperkids @macmillanusa @zonderkidz @waterbrookchildrens @albertwhitman

#randomhousepartner

🚨FREE ALERT !!! 🚨 One of my favorite end-of-the-year gifts are these postcards right here! I took a picture with each child and then used PowerPoint to add this sweet poem that I found on the internet. So easy and so sweet! 💕

I left the link in my bio so you can grab a copy of it for FREE! Just click on the link under my profile to get it now!

https://www.happydaysinfirstgrade.com/2024/04/18/its-the-end-of-the-year/

🌟 GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED. Thank you to everyone who entered! A winner will be announced soon. 🌟

🎊 Happy Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, teachers and librarians!To celebrate, I have teamed up with my fellow AAPI author and illustrator friends to gift ONE lucky teacher/librarian this extensive collection of AAPI books for his/her students. 🎊

To enter this giveaway:

❤️ Like this post and FOLLOW all the creators listed.We will check before announcing a winner.
👩🏻‍💻 Comment how you plan on using these books in your library!
📚 That is IT!

MUST FOLLOW ALL OF THESE ACCOUNTS:

@hellomrsdinh
@hbui333
@chloeitoward
@dowphumiruk
@angela.pham.krans
@SylviaiChen
@suma_subramaniam
@ediblewords 
@steph_steph_sy 
@csoontornvat
@c_alemshah
@mariechanbooks
@nmillerillustration
@richkarho
@sharonfjart
@brandialwayswrites
@meera.sriram
@nadiasalomon.author
@sambasivanandparikh
@sitawrites

Open to USA ONLY!

🚨 We do NOT ask for credit card information. 🚨

One winner will receive a copy of each book featured in the graphic.

⭐ We will announce the winner publicly and contact him/her to confirm.
⭐ We will ONLY ask the winner for his/her mailing address.

📖 This runs until May 17th at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time Zone.
📖Open to US territory only.
📖This is in no way affiliated with or sponsored by Instagram.
📖Must be following ALL accounts to be eligible to win.
📖Must be 18 years or older.
📖Must be a current TEACHER/LIBRARIAN to enter with a valid school email.
📖The individual creators are responsible for sending a copy of their book to the winner.

🎁 The winner has 24 hours to claim any prize, otherwise, another one will be chosen! Good luck!

#iteach
#librarians
#teachers
#aapihmonth

Do you need end-of-the-year activities? If so, swing by my blog now for all these ideas and more!

Link in bio. https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18QsyvZBXf/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Do you need end-of-the-year activities? If so, swing by my blog now for all these ideas and more!

Link in bio. https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18QsyvZBXf/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Do you need end-of-the-year activities? If so, swing by my blog now for all these ideas and more!

Link in bio. https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18QsyvZBXf/?mibextid=wwXIfr

When I think of beautiful and meaningful books that have been published in our current times, I think of the works that my amazingly talented and award-winning peers have created. I’m so proud to know them, read their works, and stand with them.

I am also so proud and honored that because of those who came before me and paved the way for me, I am able to publish the books that I have in the last 5 years. Our books are not only captivating, they are also respected, uplifting, and diverse! ✨

I truly love our KidLit Community and am constantly in awe of the talent that it possesses. ✨

When I think of beautiful and meaningful books that have been published in our current times, I think of the works that my amazingly talented and award-winning peers have created. I’m so proud to know them, read their works, and stand with them.

I am also so proud and honored that because of those who came before me and paved the way for me, I am able to publish the books that I have in the last 5 years. Our books are not only captivating, they are also respected, uplifting, and diverse! ✨

I truly love our KidLit Community and am constantly in awe of the talent that it possesses. ✨

Need AAPI Heritage book recommendations?!

Here are some of my favorite and must-reads! Link in bio for all the info.

https://www.happydaysinfirstgrade.com/2024/02/16/asianamericanpacificislanderpicturebooks/

To have a mother and to be a mother are two gifts that I treasure with all of my heart for all of my life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms with whom we share their love, presence, and memories. ❤️

To have a mother and to be a mother are two gifts that I treasure with all of my heart for all of my life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms with whom we share their love, presence, and memories. ❤️

To have a mother and to be a mother are two gifts that I treasure with all of my heart for all of my life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms with whom we share their love, presence, and memories. ❤️

To have a mother and to be a mother are two gifts that I treasure with all of my heart for all of my life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms with whom we share their love, presence, and memories. ❤️

To have a mother and to be a mother are two gifts that I treasure with all of my heart for all of my life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms with whom we share their love, presence, and memories. ❤️

To have a mother and to be a mother are two gifts that I treasure with all of my heart for all of my life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms with whom we share their love, presence, and memories. ❤️

To have a mother and to be a mother are two gifts that I treasure with all of my heart for all of my life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms with whom we share their love, presence, and memories. ❤️

I’m so excited to celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with my fellow AAPI authors and illustrators from the KidLit community! 💛✨

If you need book recommendations for this month, here are our favorite stories straight from our hearts to your library! 📚

Don’t forget to follow all these amazing book creators to check out their work and more! 🎊

@hellomrsdinh
@chloeitoward
@AutumnLeaflet
@dowphumiruk
@lbontigao
@SylviaiChen
@joannahowrites
@ediblewords
@steph_steph_sy
@bshum79
@c_alemshah
@ediblewords
@jessyoonwrites
@mariechanbooks
@jleungbooks
@mmillerillustratio
@tracihuahn
@brandialwayswrites