Worth Its Weight in Gold - Insight on the Processes of Writing and Illustrating from the Pros!

No advice is more genuine and authentic than the words from people who have been where you are, and already gone through where you dream to go! Check out these sites, many of which are geared directly at the age of the children the books are written and illustrated for. To the right, I am building a collection of direct links to portions of author websites where they dispense advice to young writers, and children certainly appreciate being considered "authors." It is empowering for them, and it also shows a respect for the writing and creative processes the child goes through. Students rise to the occasion when they feel that their words are valued just as much as an adult's thoughts. :) Below are a few extra inspirational sites which are from author/illustrators as well. Enjoy!

Jan Brett - Author and Illustrator Jan Brett has recently posted numerous videos of "How to Draw" animals and other things, as well as author interview video posts! How perfect for a featured author/illustrator study!
http://www.janbrett.com/video/video_main_page.htm

Jarrett Krosoczka - Author and illustrator Jarrett Krosoczka shows from "Sketch to Finish" steps in his illustrative process. It's very kid friendly so they can explore on their own. (I can't wait to see him in person at our school in just a few weeks! I'll be sure to post. :) http://www.studiojjk.com/sketchtofinish.html

Loreen Leedy - Author and illustrator Loreen Leedy is a teacher favorite for her books that easily lend themselves to content area learning - and in a fun way! Check out her illustration process here. http://www.loreenleedy.com/books/35art.html

Janet Stevens: Author and Illustrator Janet Stevens shows the process of sketching and layering artwork in several sections of this page. http://www.janetstevens.com/today/index.htm

Aliki - Author and Illustrator Aliki illustrates the process of "How a Book is Made." The illustrations are from a book that was written with the same name. It's great to post on your classroom website for students to pull up at home with their parents to explain the process after the book has been shared at interactive read aloud in school. :)
http://www.harperchildrens.com/hch/picture/features/aliki/howabook/book1.asp

Henry Cole - Illustrator Henry Cole shows elements of the drawing process in a kid-friendly manner with the use of his creatively titled subsections: "Version-ometer," "Process-ometer," and "Detail-ometer." He uses the clicking of the computer's mouse to his illustrative advantage when showing children his process of sketching.

http://www.henrycole.net/main.php?link=artroom

Stephen Michael King - Illustrator Stephen Michael King shows how he draws a picture in under four minutes on this YouTube video found at the bottom of the linked page.

http://www.stephenmichaelking.com/index.htm