Bologna or bust!

It's that time of year again: the Bologna Children's Book Fair is starting in a few short days! But right now, I'm 6152 miles away from it — and that's something that would normally give me a bad case of the Bologna Blues.

BUT WAIT!!  I've had a bit of good news ... my illustrations (from Crocodile Shoes) are among the finalists in the SCBWI-Bologna Illustration Show, and I am very honored!

Ever since 2004, the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators has maintained a regular presence at the Bologna Book Fair — their stand there hosts many activities as well as the Illustrator's Gallery. Participation is open to SCBWI members internationally, and it attracts illustrators from all over.

I'm in good company this year — the wonderful illustrators Isabel Roxas and Maple Lam, to name just two. And in previous years, there has been a stellar cast of artists from around the world: Sophie Blackall, Eliza Wheeler, Constanze Von Kitzing, Jane Ray, Satoshi Kitamura, Jennifer Thermes, G.Brian Karas, and Barbara McClintock... among many, many others. Not too shabby!

So if you do find yourself in Bologna (lucky you!), the SCBWI stand is at A/66 in Pavilion 26... that's the area that usually has a majority of English-language publishers present. Stop by and say hello!

PS. When I went to Bologna a few years ago, I wrote about it here and here.

PPS.  Anna Castagnoli has posted this handy guide of Bologna's museums, bookshops, various events, plus places to eat and drink. Lots of good suggestions, check it out -- grazie, Anna!

PPPS.  Laura's got some advice