Janey and the Famous Author [Hardcover]

Gr. 2-4. Popular author Hahn, who has likely been involved in more than a few literary festivals, captures the experience through the eyes of one bookworm. Janey's favorite author is Lily May Appleton, the writer of the wonderful Bob the Dog Detective series. When Janey hears her class is going to a festival where Appleton is on the program, she is beside herself. But Janey, who always has her nose in a book, gets separated from her class and misses Appleton's speech. Lost and crying, she is discovered by a friendly woman, whose identity even younger readers will probably be able to figure out. In a funny twist, Janey doesn't believe the woman is Ms. Appleton because she looks so much older than the photo on the book jacket, but a quick quiz finally convinces her. Short and appealing, this speaks to any child who has a favorite author. The artwork, much of it full page, is a bit cartoonish in spots, but there are also many appealing renderings, especially those that capture Janey immersed in the joy of reading. Ilene Cooper
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Third-grader Janey is never without a Bob the Dog Detective book by her favorite author, Lily May Appleton. She sneaks reading time during school and is often scolded for letting her mind wander. Janey snaps to attention, though, when her teacher mentions Ms. Appleton's name. The author is scheduled to speak at a children's literature festival, and Janey's class will have a chance to meet her! At last the big day comes, but once again Janey's daydreaming gets her into trouble. She becomes separated from her class and completely misses the session with Ms. Appleton. Lost and devastated, Janey is consoled by a kind stranger who claims to be none other thanLily May Appleton!

Tim Bush is the writer and illustrator of several popular picture books. WANNA BUY AN ALIEN? is his first book for Clarion. He lives in New York City.

Mary Downing Hahn has participated as an author in many children's literature festivals similar to the one described in Janey, and a number of her books, including Wait Till Helen Comes and Time for Andrews, have won awards voted by young people.

Mary Downing Hahn, a former children's librarian, is the award-winning author of many popular ghost stories, including Deep and Dark and Dangerous and The Old Willis Place. An avid reader, traveler, and all-around arts lover, Ms. Hahn lives in Columbia, Maryland, with her two cats, Oscar and Rufus.