Community

One of the basic pillars for both family and learning is community. The world of books for children is wonderfully rich. There are authors & illustrators, helpful organizations from public libraries to barber shops, and innovative programs to encourage reading. And let’s not forget book stores.

My daughter and son-in-law, Emma and Michael Fusco-Straub, opened the independent bookstore Books are Magic with locations at 125 Smith Street and 122 Montague Street in Brooklyn. Visit if you can– see if you can climb into the octagonal reading nook in the children’s room. Most children find it quickly and settle in for some private reading time. Stop by Thursdays and Saturdays at 11:00 AM for a read aloud! 

It is one of my sincere pleasures in life to go to the Children’s Room in the Brooklyn Public Library. Do yourself a favor and visit.

I want to highlight the mural art installed in 2019 that features 7 of the very best children’s book illustrators all of whom live in Brooklyn. There is definitely something in the water. Judy Zuckerman, director of Youth and Family Services, spearheaded the effort from inception to conclusion. It’s as if they have always been there. 

And by the way, my home town has some of the most adorable, quirky little videos they post on TikTok. Check out the Milwaukee Public Library. They are hilarious, and unexpected. 

Every so often I will shine a spotlight on someone in the community that I think is doing amazing things or really deserves some recognition. Check back often to see emerging author/illustrators, teachers and other community members who believe in reading with babies just as much as we do.

If you would like to be even more involved, I will also be sharing events and programs open to the public.