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Children's Book Authors

As Excitement Builds for the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival… Teachers and Librarians Explain Why!

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The Chappaqaua Children’s Book Festival is less that a week away, and excitement is building! The CCBF, with over 8,000 visitors each year, has become one of one of the largest children’s book festivals in the country.

The 11th annual event, held September 28, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Chappaqua train station.

The festival will feature 160 authors including Laura Numeroff (the “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” series), 2024 Caldecott Medal winner Vashti Harrison, festival favorite Victoria Kann (“Pinkalicious”), Dan Gutman (the “My Weird School” series) and so many more!

The festival gives kids and families a chance to meet and interact with the authors of their favorite books and discover more. The fun-filled day includes food trucks, activities and more for all to enjoy. 

I asked some familiar faces around town who they are looking forward to meeting this year!

Who are you excited about seeing at the CCBF this year?

David Forsberg, 4th Grade teacher, Roaring Brook School:

This event has grown into a truly special day. Upon arriving, you sense excitement from children and parents as they walk around with new books that they can’t wait to take home and enjoy.  The authors from the festival are world renowned and may be familiar to Chappaqua students.  There are always new exciting authors that have something new to offer to the festival. 

Last year, our 4th grade students were able to meet Sayantani DasGupta at an author’s day visit at RBS.  Students and teachers were engaged listening to the incredible experiences and writing methods she shared.  Dr. DasGupta grew up in Ohio and shared about how she was always addicted to reading and loved learning about how authors came up with their own ideas.  She became a pediatrician and children’s author.  Our 4th grade students were immediately captured by her energy, disposition and her impressive accomplishments. 

I hope that families take advantage and attend the festival with their children this year!  You can’t go wrong.

Robbin Freidman, Chappaqua Library:

I’m looking forward to meeting Katie Yamasaki, the author and illustrator of several warm and inspiring picture books. In addition to creating books, Yamasaki is a muralist and her picture book illustrations bring the same kind of vibrancy and scope as her murals. For my first book club session of the school year (the book club is for middle school students with an adult, usually a parent), we read “Turtles of the Midnight Moon” by María José Fitzgerald, so I know all those readers and I are hoping to say hello to her.

Mercy Garland, Chappaqua Library:

I am looking forward to meeting Rajani LaRocca because I love her novels-in-verse (“Red, White and Whole” AND “Mirror to Mirror”).  I also look forward to meeting Nicole Melleby because she creates really deep characters dealing with complex problems and issues.  For illustrators- I would love to meet E.B Lewis because his work is always so beautiful.  

Julie Ann Polasko, Chappaqua Library:

As a Children’s Librarian, I am continually learning from our new books. I am so excited to meet M.O. Yuksel and tell her how grateful I am for her books, because they represent those of the Muslim faith, and educate others. Examples are her picture book In My Mosque, and the biography One Wish, about Fatima al-Fihri, the founder of the oldest continuously operating University in the world!

I’m also looking forward to seeing Carrie Finison. Her “Dozens of Doughnuts” is one of my go-to suggestions for a funny picture book. It features a bear preparing for hibernation by making doughnuts (as one does)–but has she been too generous when all of her woodland friends come knocking?

Teresa Bueti, Chappaqua Library:

I’m hoping to meet author & illustrator Dan Santat. I’ve loved so many of his own books, from the Caldecott-Award-winning “The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend”, to the sensitive “After the Fall”, to his middle school graphic memoir “A First Time for Everything”, and then there are the ones he’s illustrated for other authors, like Minh Lé’s “Drawn Together”.   I enjoy his energy and humor–his work is incredibly varied, but so distinctive.

Chris Eidem, Chappaqua School Librarian:

I am looking forward to meeting Kyle Lukoff (“Too Bright to See”) and am excited to talk with him about his Newbery Honor and Stonewall awards and thank him for writing books that support our LGBTQ adolescents. I also look forward to seeing Phil Bildner (“A High Five for Glenn Burke”) whom I have met on several occasions and who is a trusted voice for the LGBTQ community, and also is a baseball fan!

Hudson Talbot is a favorite author friend who I have hosted at Roaring Brook for Author Day several years ago.  We have a connection with Hudson NY, my hometown, and where I attended an exhibit of his illustrations. He lives across the river near Catskill and I visit with him when I am home at my mom’s house.

One of the greatest experiences for a librarian and an author is not only connecting a student with the right book at the right time, but witnessing it changing their life.  Hudson wrote his autobiographical book “A Walk in the Words” describing and illustrating his struggle with dyslexia as a child. I was so pleased to give this book to our reading teacher specifically for a student who was struggling with reading. This book allowed the student to recognize his disability and know that he was not alone, and now has been able to grow as a reader with the support and understanding he needed. It was life changing. That to me is the ultimate “Why”  for what we strive to do every day.

We are so very lucky to have this event in our own backyard, bringing the best and largest selection of authors and illustrators for all ages.  I look forward to it each year and am so pleased to have supported this project from its earliest conception to now being in its 11th year.

Cayne Letizia, English teacher, Horace Greeley High School:

As a high school English teacher at Horace Greeley High School, I’m particularly excited about the inclusion of a few young adult authors at this year’s Chappaqua Book Festival, like Dhonielle Clayton and Erik J. Brown. These writers offer stories that resonate with the age group I teach. Engaging with authors who understand the challenges and experiences of adolescents is a great way to inspire my students. I’m also looking forward to seeing my students volunteer and give back to the community–it’s an amazing opportunity for them to contribute and be part of something much larger than themselves.

I’m looking forward to seeing Torrey Maldonado at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival because my son and I both enjoyed reading his books “Tight” and “What Lane?” Meeting Torrey will be a great experience for both of us!

For more information, a list of authors, or to volunteer, visit http://www.ccbfestival.org/ or follow the CCBF at www.facebook.com/chappaquachildrensbookfestival.

 

 

“A Playground of Books” at the Ninth Annual Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival

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Save the Date for the 10th Annual Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival:  September 30, 2023

Chappaqua, NY— On Saturday, October 15, over 150 authors and thousands of visitors gathered at the Chappaqua Train Station over a shared love for literature.  And this year, the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival, which took place on a picture-perfect autumn day, may have been the largest one yet.

When asked to compare CCBF with other book festivals, author Valerie Bolling shared that “this is definitely the largest; they’re all wonderful, but this is definitely the premiere event.” Similarly, author Sheetal Sheth shared admiration for the festival’s environment and size, saying that CCBF was definitely “at the top.”

This year’s theme was “A Walk Through the Woods” inspired by Hudson Talbott’s poster art. The festival fostered a charming environment filled with gourmet food trucks, food from the Chappaqua Farmers Market, themed tables, and of course an abundance of kids eager to read their newly purchased books. 

Some acclaimed authors in attendance included Victoria Kann of the Pinkalicious series and Dan Gutman of The Genius File series, to name a couple. Authors were thrilled to showcase their work to encourage their love for reading.

Sheth’s highlight of the festival was “meeting kids who are like ‘That book is in my school!’ or ‘I read that in my class!’”

Similarly, author Kip Wilson shared that “just meeting teenagers who like historical fiction is really awesome.”

The authors at the event expressed their gratitude for people who approached them to show interest in their work. And this interaction was not only meaningful for the authors, but even more so for the kids as they were able to put a face to the name on the front cover of a book that they love. As a current high-school student, I remember how much I looked forward to a visiting author in middle and elementary school who talked about their books; I always rushed straight home to read their work. And for kids at the book festival, this magic was multiplied as they got to meet and converse with not just one author, but up to 150. 

This excitement amongst children at the book festival encourages them to value books and reading. A third-grade girl who attended the festival with her sister and mother said that she “like[s] walking around to see all of the books and then read them later.” Her mother shared that their family had been attending the festival ever since they moved to Chappaqua, returning each year because of all it offers. Getting kids excited about reading is vital, especially at a young age, and the book festival did exactly that.

 The CCBF offered a vast array of children and young adult books that spanned numerous genres, allowing everyone there to explore and discover. Sheth captured the event perfectly, calling it a “playground of books.” 

The ninth annual Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival was a soaring success. Amidst the sunny weather, delicious food, and diversity of books, everyone could be seen with a smile on their face, appreciating the strong sense of community and connectedness the event fostered. 

Editor’s Note:  The Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival is lead by its founder & executive director Dawn Evans Greenberg and her all volunteer team.  The Inside Press is proud to be an official sponsor of the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival.  Chappaqua and beyond are eagerly anticipating a milestone 10th year festival, set to take place on September 30, 2023!  – Grace

Dawn Evans Greenberg          Photo by Donna Mueller
 The 2023 Chappaqua Children’s Book festival art and save the date art are by Mark Teague, illustrator of How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight and dozens of other popular kids’ books.

 

 

The RETURN of the CHAPPAQUA CHILDREN’S BOOK FESTIVAL

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Community, Inclusivity & History to Come Alive again this Fall on October 2

In the past year and half, COVID has caused many events and milestones to be cancelled–from birthdays to Bar Mitzvahs, vacations to family reunions. In Chappaqua, the town missed one of its most beloved events, the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival (CCBF), which is set to make a much-anticipated return this Fall.  

Now in its 8th year, the Chappaqua Children’s book Festival will take place on October 2, 2021 with many familiar faces and traditions, as well as some changes.

“We are beyond thrilled to be back,” said Dawn Greenberg, Executive Director of, who originally championed bringing the festival to town almost a decade ago. “This feels like a true celebration, a reawakening in this town. This event truly brings our community together–from our planning committee to volunteers, local business, and even local authors–and we cannot wait to bring something familiar and joyful to town after such a rough time.”

A Community Tradition

Each year, thousands of visitors descend on Chappaqua for the CCBF, to enjoy a beautiful Fall day meeting their favorite authors and enjoying all the town has to offer. This year, due to COVID, the day might look slightly different, with a scaled back author list (about 60) and a new location (the Chappaqua Train Station), but many of the familiar faces and activities will remain, including author signings, panels, sponsor activities, and costumed characters. The festival will follow up-to-date COVID guidelines and protocols, regarding social distances, crowd numbers and masking policies.

All guests over the age of two will be required to wear masks.

“The CCBF is an “all hands on deck” volunteer event spearheaded by the indefatigable Dawn Greenberg and others who tirelessly promote literacy, reading, and countless beloved authors while reminding us that even in the era of screens, there are few things more valuable than a good ole’ fashioned paper book,” said Jeremy Saland, Acting Town Supervisor. “The Chappaqua Hamlet and greater New Castle are fortunate to host this festival and showcase the people and spirit that makes our community so welcoming to visitors and a place we are fortunate to call home.”

Despite the reduced number of authors, organizers are working to get as wide a mix as possible, from genre to subject matter and age group. Local authors and illustrators including Matt and Mara Van Fleet, Sujean Rim and Bob Bianchini will be on hand, as well as fan favorites like Dan Gutman and Alyssa Capucilli and Pat Schories of Biscuit fame. The full roster of authors and community sponsors can be found on the CCBF site.

Focus on Inclusivity

In addition to a wide mix of genres and ages, the festival will also focus on content, with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Celebrated author Torrey Maldanado (What Lane), Mike Curato (Flamer) and Brendan Kiely (All American Boys) will participate, with special panels and presentations in the works.

“It is our mission to represent ALL voices,” said Greenberg. “We are so fortunate to be able to draw these esteemed authors, whose works can start so many important and often difficult conversations.”

History Celebrated & Jean Craighead George, Remembered and Honored

An exciting celebration will take place at this year’s fest, of famed Chappaqua resident Jean Craighead George’s 100th birthday and the inclusion of many of her books, some unpublished. This Fall marks the debut of her never-before-seen book, Crowbar, revised by her children Luke and Twig George, and illustrated by longtime collaborator, Wendell Minor, a veteran CCBF author who will attend again this year and feature many of George’s classics in his booth. 

This celebration coincides with a new town initiative, where a local park will be named after the author, a fitting tribute to the author who wrote about nature for children.

“All is decidedly not right with the world. but when young readers, authors, illustrators, and educators converge to celebrate literacy at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival, all will be right with the world,” said Alan Katz, author. “The Festival is always one of my favorite days of the year, and I am thrilled and grateful that the organizers have found a safe and healthful way to bring it back. The plans to honor the wonderful Jean Craighead George make it all that more special.”

 

8th ANNUAL CHAPPAQUA CHILDREN’S BOOK FESTIVAL

Saturday, Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Chappaqua Train Station

ccbfestival.org or facebook.com/chappaquabookfestival

Diversity: A Key Focus at the 2018 Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival

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The sixth annual Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival comes to town on Saturday, September 29th with more of everything–new authors, food trucks, activities and special attractions like the Bubble Bus.

Food trucks will include Mobile Pie, Walter’s Hot Dogs, The Melt Mobile and Three Little Pigs. Dessert will be available at the Great Chappaqua Bake Sale and also at Penny Lick Ice Cream’s cart which will feature a custom CCBF flavor in homage to author Bernard Most: If the Dinosaurs Came Back for Ice Cream. The Mike Risko Band and the Random Farms Kids’ Theater will provide entertainment.

Ninety-four authors including favorites like Victoria Kann, Rosemary Wells, Nick Bruel, Jane Yolen and Mark Teague will sign books and chat with their fans. Books are available through Best Book Fairs (cash or credit cards accepted). The festival, an all-volunteer effort, will also feature 18 new authors. A focus for the festival’s organizers was bringing books to a more diverse audience in 2018.

Dawn Greenberg, founder and executive director of the festival, noted: “Each year the author selection committee attempts to find books that will offer our visiting families the opportunity to be transported by our authors to different and diverse worlds, giving them a window on all kinds of characters and experiences–real and fictional.  We are thrilled to bring in a wide selection of authors and genres this year who are getting great buzz in the children’s publishing world for their riveting stories and fresh voices.”

Snapshots from 2017

Tony Abbott with kids
PHOTO BY BO ZAUNDERS

PHOTO BY JOANNA SEGAL

All About the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on October 14!

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Notes from the Festival’s Founder!

For one glorious day each fall, authors, readers and their families flock to downtown Chappaqua for the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival (CCBF). Founded by a group of volunteers in 2013, the festival is now considered the preeminent children’s book festival in the tri-state area.

More than 90 children’s book authors and illustrators from as far away as Maryland fill the daylong festival with laughter, excitement and fun for children of all ages. Authors take the time for conversation and inspiration, to demonstrate the art of illustration and to read aloud favorite books in the adjacent St. Mary the Virgin’s garden. Attendees can expect festival favorites such as Rosemary Wells and Jane Yolen to return plus new authors such as Betsy and Ted Lewin and Roxie Munro.

Illustration by Sujean Rim

Families can find additional activities from book making to balloon animals to a Gaga pit in the family fun area. Food trucks and the Great Chappaqua Bake Sale provide many lunch options and scrumptious dessert and treats.

Since it’s inception The Great Chappaqua Bake Sale has raised more than $130,000 for Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign and has connected children with more than 1.3 million meals. “It’s hard to believe this will be our eighth year working to raise monies to fund school and summer meals programs for kids in New York State. The Great Chappaqua Bake Sale community of supporters and volunteers make this event successful each year and we are particularly inspired by the many children who devote their time and passion to helping children in need,” noted Alison Spiegel, one of the Bake Sale founders.

A portion of the proceeds from the CCBF go to JCY-WCP literacy programs in schools throughout Westchester. The fifth annual CCBF is on Saturday, October 14th, from 10-4 pm. Admission is free. Cash and credit cards are accepted for book and food purchases. Free parking all day available at the nearby Chappaqua Metro-North train station.

For information on sponsorship and volunteering, visit www.ccbfestival.org or visit us on Facebook at Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival.

This Just In…New Not to Be Missed Authors


Betsy and Ted Lewin – Author and/or Illustrator of almost 200 children’s books plus recipients of numerous awards including the Caldecott Honor Book Medal and the NY Times Best Illustrated Award


Julie Fogliano – Author of beloved books including When Green Becomes Tomatoes: Poems for All Seasons and Old Dog Baby Baby


Roxie Munro – Author/Illustrator of more than 40 nonfiction and concept books for children using “gamification” to encourage reading, learning and engagement; NY Times Best Illustrated Award recipient


Stephen Savage – Author and Illustrator of 9 books for children, including the NY Times bestselling picture book Polar Bear Night, written by Lauren Thompson and creator of the Where’s Walrus? books, Supertruck and Little Tug