About

In 2006 I started this blog to write about teaching, my life’s work; literature, especially that created for children; history, especially as it is taught to and learned by children; Africa, especially Sierra Leone where I served as a Peace Corps Volunteer; and other sundry topics as they come to my attention.

I contribute to a variety of publications including the New York Times Book Review, the Horn Book Magazine, and School Library Journal. Along the way I’ve helped select several awards including the 2019 Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards (chair), the 2015 New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books, and the 2008 Newbery; I also originated and co-ran School Library Journal’s Battle of the Kids’ Books.

A lifelong educator I teach fourth grade in New York City and, after writing several books for teachers, wrote my first for children,  Africa is My Home: A Child of the Amistad, and am hard at work on another. I’m fortunate to be represented by Stephen Barbara of Inkwell Management.

As for Alice and her education, Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is my favorite book.