Leslie Eva Tayloe

Award Winning Author 

Happy March! Welcome and thank you for joining me. 

 

Picture Book Showcase: 

Big Bear and Little Bear Go Fishing

By Amy Hest

Illustrations by Erin Stead

I bought this book because I love fishing. As February ends and March arrives, I think of spring—and of fishing! I love casting for catfish and stripers on the Rappahannock River.

This story is quiet and calming. The affectionate bond between Big Bear and Little Bear is heartwarming. Their interactions feel authentic. Sometimes Big Bear forgets a rule, and Little Bear reminds him—like whisper while fishing. 

They don’t catch a fish but the story emphasizes being together, and slowing down to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. 

The illustrations are amazing. The colors enhance the peaceful tone, and I love how the author mentions the colors of the bears’ pants, boots, and coats. Over the years, in classes with authors, editors, and agents, I’ve often heard the “rule” in picture book writing: don’t name colors that can be clearly seen in the illustrations. But that rule is broken here—and it works! The illustrator brings those colors to life, and each page is beautiful. 

I guess rules can be broken in picture book writing! Remember that when you write your next story. 

March Book Giveaway Winner: Congrats to Gabriella Aldeman from Virginia. She won a free book. I’ll contact Gabriella for address information. 

March Events: I hope to see you! 

March 7, 2026, Exhibiting Author at the 2026 Williamsburg Book Festival at the Williams & Mary School of Education, 301 Monticello Avenue, Williamsburg, VA 23185.

March 14, 2026, Exhibiting Author at the Suffolk Virginia Authors Festival, Suffolk Conference Center at the Hilton Garden Inn, 100 E. Constance Road, Suffolk, VA, 1-5pm. 

March 28, 2026, I’m presenting at the Williamsburg Library, Stryker Center, 412 Boundary Street, Williamsburg, VA., Topic: Tips on Querying a Publisher, 1:30pm. 

Enjoy March. 

Best,

Leslie