Book Trailer Premiere: The Green Umbrella by Jackie Azúa Kramer and Maral Sassouni

Happy Tuesday! I'm celebrating The Green Umbrella's book trailer, Maral Sassouni's illustrations, reading, and school libraries with Jackie Azúa Kramer. I wrote the words in purple, and she wrote the words in black. Thank you, Jackie! 

The Green Umbrella’s book trailer makes me envious of my characters. All my imaginings come to life! I want to explore Elephant’s curious little town. I want to jump into Hedgehog’s boat and swim with the dolphins. Touch a star-studded sky with Bear’s flying machine while listening to Debussy’s Clair de lune.

Elephant, Hedgehog, Cat, Bear, and old Rabbit are on their next adventure. Latest I heard, they’re off to 100 Acre Wood. Seems Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, Kanga and the gang, want to see the green umbrella up close. I think Pooh has plans for a honey hunt. Personally, I miss them. I hope they come home soon. They’re the most kind and interesting bunch I’ve ever met.

Illustration Credit: Maral Sassouni 

Maral Sassouni’s illustrations are whimsical and enchanting. There’s too much to love! I find myself taking a cozy nap in Cat’s forest after enjoying a cherry-topped cupcake. I love the idea that Elephant feels as comfortable wearing a tutu as he is fighting off pirates. And I want all my sunsets to look like lush Italian frescoes.

Illustration Credit: Maral Sassouni 

I hope The Green Umbrella is a symbol of freedom.

Reading is all the world expressed in a story. Reading is one way to discover ourselves. Reading is a way to discover we aren’t alone. And, like music, dance, art, theatre, film--reading, allows you to feel feelings of sadness, joy, anger, fear, compassion, hilarity, all in a safe space.

Illustration Credit: Maral Sassouni 

School libraries make me smile from ear to ear. I feel optimistic knowing that some of our most beloved books and new books will live on in the hands of passionate librarians.

Mr. Schu, you should have asked me…Pivot’s Questionnaire:

What is your favorite word? Yes.

What is your least favorite word? No.

What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally? Passion.

What turns you off? Cynicism

What is your favorite curse word? Dang. Ok, I have a few saltier ones.

What sound or noise do you love? There are many—wind rustling through leaves, waves, birds singing and reggae music.

What sound or noise do you hate? Sharpening of knives.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Singer.

What profession would you not like to do? With all due respect--doctor.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Jackie, I’m so glad you’re here! I was starting to get bored!

Jackie earned her Masters of Education from Queens College. She is a member of SCBWI and has written for the SCBWI Bulletin. In 2014, she was invited to be a member of the Bank Street Writers Lab, Bank Street College. In 2015 Jackie was a presenter at the 1st nErDCamp Long Island. Her picture book, The Green Umbrella (North South Books) debuts February 2017. The Boy and the Eight Hundred Pound Gorilla (Candlewick Press, TBD) and If You Want to Fall Asleep (Clavis Books, Spring 2018). Visit her at: jackieazuakramer.com

Look for The Green Umbrella on January 31, 2017.