Kimberly Long Cockroft's Blog

I’m honored that Reading Beauty was included on International Literacy Association Children’s Choices List for 2019!

I was so happy to see “Rahim’s Pangolin” in the February issue of Cricket Magazine. Illustrator Lucia Sforza did a lovely job of depicting Bangladesh’s beautiful Lawachara National Park (located close to where I was lucky enough to spend my early years). Thanks to Lonnie Plecha, Cricket’s wonderful editor, for fine-tuning this story that highlights the... Read More

Keep walking up the stairs–five flights!  Do you feel your leg muscles burning?  Just when you are panting a bit, you will find two glass doors that lead to The Quiet Room.  And there, it is indeed quiet.  You can work for hours undisturbed, take a break to sit on the terrace and eat lunch... Read More

We took a few days of spring break to rocket over the Cascades in our tiny, packed car (complete with our big dog, Jemma in the back), to see life-long friends in Missoula.  For me, it was more than just a trip of tea, conversation, egg-painting and rambles through the snowy, vast foothills–I got to... Read More

It’s been a busy and fun few days!  Last week, I got to make book jackets with fourth graders; then there was a cozy afternoon at Poulsbo’s own Liberty Bay Books (with crafts and cupcakes), and this morning, I spent a couple hours with fifty sixth graders, writing poems!  So hurrah for author events!  I am... Read More

Wow, what a special night.  Thanks to all who came in fanciful dress and partied in the beautiful barn.  Thanks to the kids who did amazing Reading Beauty crafts, everyone who helped make the party a great success and danced the night away.  You guys are the best!  XO  And the party’s not over yet–join me at... Read More

Okay, since Reading Beauty JUST came out, it doesn’t have too many reviews yet (dear reader, this is up to you!)  So I was super excited to see a great review on Amazon: Reading Beauty is a whimsical and creative take on classic fairy tales, destined to become a favorite of librarians and book-lovers (those who... Read More

This afternoon, I got home after a fun day with fourth graders. . . Arrived: Two big boxes. Inside: I am thrilled with the bright illustrations by Mary Grace Corpus.  I am pleased as punch with the quality of the printing, and the generous size of the book!  Hooray!  Hip, hip, hooray! If you want... Read More

By royal edict, you are hereby invited to the. . . Reading Beauty Ball! Everyone is welcome to attend!  Come to the beautiful converted barn in your most fanciful fairytale/book-themed costume (we’ll let you in no matter what!)  There will be book signings, great food, live jazz, and after the reading, we’ll clear the barn... Read More

It’s the last few weeks before Reading Beauty hits bookstore shelves, and I am in a happy tizzy, booking readings and signings and getting myself organized.  I just ordered stickers–who doesn’t love STICKERS?  And more to the point, who doesn’t love READING?  That’s what this book is all about–falling in love with books.  Falling into... Read More