At the Firehouse

In Her Own Words...

I don't remember learning to read; it seems as though I've always known how. In the same way, I don't know when I first began to draw and paint. I've always loved books and have always known I wanted to be an artist. So making picture books for children was my natural calling. I still remember how the world looked to me when I was very young, so communicating with children just starting off on what I hope will be a lifetime love of books feels right.

Many of the books I write I illustrate myself, but I've also been lucky to have collaborated with other illustrators who bring their own special gifts and vision to the words I write.

One of these is my daughter, Lizzy Rockwell. She has collaborated with me on a series of books about a group of children learning about the world, and telling the reader about themselves, in the sort of charmed and happy classroom all children should have. Two of the titles are just right for the fall back-to-school season Halloween Day and Thanksgiving Day.

Paul Meisel has illustrated Morgan Plays Soccer, published in August 2001. This is the first of a series of books about what it means to be a "good sport". Sports are a big part of childhood. Even those who aren't good at them must learn the rules of the game. As Morgan Brownbear finds out, it isn't easy although if you have good friends who are also good sports it helps.

I've never met a child who wasn't intrigued by insects. Steve Jenkins' illustrations for Bugs Are Insects, Let'S Read And Find Out (May 2001) show why children like my youngest grandson, Christian, are taken with the beauty and variety they see in the insect world.

I believe that once a book is published it belongs to its readers. So now I'm busy working on ideas for new books. I love doing this, for I'm always refreshed by starting this kind of adventure carrying an idea all the way turning it into a book for others to read and enjoy.

PreSchool-Grade 1-A straightforward look at firefighters and the equipment they use. Rockwell's text follows young Jason as he tours the local firehouse, meets some firefighters, and even gets to sit in the driver's seat in the fire engines. True fans won't find much that's new here, but for some young listeners, it's a perfect introduction to the popular topic. All of the characters are Dalmatians, pictured standing upright and dressed in human clothes. At times it's difficult to determine which character is which, but their attire does help to differentiate among them. Rockwell's brightly colored illustrations are painted in a childlike style, though they include quite a few (occasionally blurred) details that belie their apparent simplicity. The enduring appeal of all things related to fire fighting as well as Rockwell's popularity ensure a place for this book in most libraries.
Lisa Dennis, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA
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