AUGUST NOTE, 2026
Hello – I’m showcasing a picture book this month.
Selma by Tini Molina,
Translated by Tammi Reichel
The Story of a Stellar Spider
North South, 2026
I saw this book at my library and gasped! I immediately picked it up. To be honest, it was the name on the cover that first caught my attention because my mom’s name was Selma.
My mom was a first-generation American. Her father—my grandfather—was born in Syria. She hated the name Selma and preferred to be called Sam. I’m sorry she isn’t alive to see that there is now a wonderful picture book with her name on the cover!
Selma by Tini Malina is about a spider who reaches for new heights and refuses to follow the status quo. Selma dares to go beyond what others think is possible and discovers that there’s nothing wrong with reaching higher and following your own path.
It’s a beautiful story about individuality, creativity, and believing in your own potential. And for me, it’s even more special because of the name on the cover.
This is definitely a book I think you should read!
I’m giving away one copy of Selma. Send me a message if you’d like the free copy!
QUARTERLY NOTE: APRIL-JUNE 2026
Happy Summer!
Welcome and thank you for joining me. It’s been a busy three months, and I’m excited to share a few highlights!
April – June Activity
- Participated in 7 events.
I especially enjoyed spending time with the children at Warsaw Head Start. They were a wonderful group, full of bright smiles, enthusiasm, and plenty of hugs!
- Added another critique group to my workload.
With so much writing in progress, I felt it was time. One group is a mix of writers from picture books to poetry, one focuses on nonfiction, and the third includes fiction, informational, and nonfiction writers. It’s been fun, inspiring, and a lot of work.
- Researched and drafted four new stories.
- Revised an older manuscript that had been sitting on my shelf for several years.
- Participated in a fantastic workshop led by a Chronicle editor.
- Continued submitting manuscripts to agents.
- Attended three SCBWI webinars and one Inked Voices webinar.
- Celebrated a fellow author’s book launch.
- To support kid-lit community, posted three author interviews on my blog.
It’s been three months of learning, writing, and revising. I’m looking forward to seeing what the next quarter brings!
August and September Events: More to come! Hope to see you.
- August 8, 2026, Participating in the RVA Children’s Book Fair/Festival, Richmond
Diversity Center, 1407 Sherwood Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, 11-4.
- September 5-6, 2026, Colonial Beach Arts & Craft Festival, 10-5pm.
Have a great summer!
Best,
Leslie
Leslie Eva Tayloe 