Election Day Activities at the San Antonio Children’s Museum

I had the chance to share my newest book TODAY ON ELECTION DAY with lots of young, future voters at the San Antonio Children’s Museum today.  Not only did we read the book together, but some kids wrote and illustrated their ideas about what they would do as President of the United States.  Other kids designed artistic, colorful “Future Voter” campaign-type buttons.  Check out the photo of these great buttons, designed by museum visitors Olivia and Kaitlyn.  A big thanks to all who joined in today’s pre-Election Day celebration!

Don’t Miss this Article on Election-Themed Activities with Kids!

 Recently, I was interviewed by San Antonio Express-News writer Richard A. Marini.  I am proud to share the resulting article, which appeared on the front page of the S.A. Life section on October  23, 2012.   The article, titled “Elect to involve children in the process” is currently posted at http://www.mysanantonio.com/life/article/Elect-to-involve-children-in-political-process-3972146.php

Exciting Events for this Election Year!

 

The Evolution of a Picture Book: One Author’s Perspective      
Saturday, October 13, 2012, 2 p.m., Combined SCBWI-Southwest Texas / Barnes and Noble Educators’ Day event,  Barnes and Noble San Pedro, 321 NW Loop 410

How does a simple idea grow into a real picture book?  Based on her own experiences, award-winning children’s author Catherine Stier first outlines an author’s writing process from initial idea to the completed picture book manuscript.  Next, she discusses how the creative team of author, editor and illustrator each contribute to the exciting process of transforming that manuscript into a picture book. Educators may find parallels in the author’s process -- which includes brainstorming, self-editing, multiple revisions and obtaining peer feedback -- and classroom writing practices.  Stier brings along her mock-ups, early illustrator sketches, “f&g”s and even a Braille version of her picture book.  This program is geared for educators, aspiring children’s authors, as well as anyone with a special interest in writing.  A book signing will follow!

Election Day Storytelling and Craft with Author Catherine Stier
Saturday, October 20, 2012, 1 p.m., Barnes and Noble San Pedro, 321 NW Loop 410 

Celebrate this exciting Presidential Election Year!  Join award-winning author Catherine Stier as she reads her new book, Today on Election Day.  Then create your own colorful “Future Voter” campaign button and join in a store-wide patriotic parade! 

Today on Election Day Story Book Reading at the San Antonio Children’s Museum   Saturday, November 3, 2012, 12:30 p.m., Children's Event, San Antonio Children's Museum, 305 E. Houston St.

Join the fun as author Catherine Stier reads her new book, Today on Election Day.  Then Kids can roll up their sleeves to take part in crafts and activities that celebrate next week’s all-important Election Day! Stier's books will be available that day at the gift shop.

A Great Day at the Dallas Kids Read! Event 2012

What an honor to be included with several notable children’s authors in the Dallas Kids Read! Event on Monday, July 9.  This annual, day-long festival celebrates literature and imagination as authors interact with the students at several Dallas schools.  

The staff and students at the Stevens Park School welcomed me, and together we had fun play-acting as audience volunteers took on the roles of presidential candidates, campaign managers – and even the President!  I appreciated all the warmth and hospitality extended to me that day, and was excited to meet such an enthusiastic group of our country’s young writers and future leaders.

Announcing the Release of Today on Election Day by Catherine Stier, Illustrated by David Leonard

In a celebration of Election Day and the election process, this just-released title features a classroom of “Future Voters” as they illuminate all that goes on from early morning to the late night hours on this all-important day. Kirkus Reviews calls it “A proudly buoyant tour of Election Day in the U.S.A.” while Booklist notes “Readers will learn what makes a candidate…how they campaign, and how voters can get information about them.”  (For more of this review and a summary of the book, visit the Albert Whitman website at www.albertwhitman.com).

Today on Election Day is available now at your favorite independent, neighborhood or online bookseller.

It’s Almost Here -- TODAY ON ELECTION DAY By Catherine Stier, Illustrated by David Leonard

                                                                                                                                                                        

Here’s a peek at the cover of the soon-to-be released title that celebrates Election Day.

In this lively picture book, a classroom of “Future Voters” illuminates all that goes on in their town -- and across the country -- on Election Day!

Kirkus Reviews calls it “A proudly buoyant tour of Election Day in the U.S.A.” (For more of this review and a summary of the book, visit the Albert Whitman & Co. Publishers website at www.albertwhitman.com).

Available June 1, 2012!

Coming Soon - Today on Election Day by Catherine Stier, Illustrated by David Leonard

Announcing the Fall 2012 release from Albert Whitman Publishers this presidential Election Year: Today on Election Day by Catherine Stier, illustrated by David Leonard. Check back for more details soon!

Lesson Plan Ideas for Presidents' Day: Introducing the New If I Were President Curriculum Guide

I am pleased to announce that just in time for Presidents’ Day and the upcoming election year, there is a new If I Were President curriculum guide based on the picture book by the same name available for free to educators and parents.

The guide was created by Leigh Courtney, Ph.D., who teaches first and second grade in the Global Education Program at a public school in San Diego, CA. She holds a doctoral degree in education with an emphasis on curriculum and instruction.

The curriculum guide offers activities in creative writing, map skills and cooperative problem solving, while also familiarizing students with the responsibilities and the perks of the Office of President of the United States.

To access the guide, please visit my website’s homepage at http://www.catherinestier.com/. Below the star icons, you’ll find the link at Click here for free curriculum guides!