Thursday, March 27, 2025

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Writing Picture Books

Ever wondered what goes into creating a picture book? As an author, I spend a lot of time choosing just the right words and working with illustrators to bring stories to life. It’s a mix of creativity, patience, and a LOT of Coke Zero! 

One of my favorite parts? Writing books that can be read and sung! Musical books help kids engage with stories and boost their early literacy skills.  Most of my books start with a small idea that I keep rolling around in my head for a while.  I decide on the tune and then the rest just come flowing out!

Curious about the process? Drop your questions in the comments, and I’ll be happy to share more!

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

The One Book Your Child Can’t Stop Reading

We all have that ONE book our child begs us to read over and over again.  You know, the one you can recite in your sleep?

Repetition in reading is actually a great thing! It helps kids build vocabulary, recognize patterns, and develop a sense of story structure. So the next time you find yourself reading Goodnight Moon for the hundredth time, just remember—you’re giving your child an amazing literacy boost.

What’s your child’s must-read book? Drop it in the comments!

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

How to Bring Books to Life Through Play

 

Reading isn’t just about books—it’s about play, imagination, and making stories come alive! 📚✨ One of the best ways to boost comprehension is to act out stories together.

For example, if your child loves dinosaurs, grab a copy of Down in the Valley and stomp around like a T. rex or stretch your neck like a Diplodocus! 🦖 Moving while learning helps kids retain new words and develop a deeper love for reading.

How do you make storytime interactive? Share your favorite tips below!

Monday, March 24, 2025

The Power of Singing in Early Literacy


Did you know that singing with your child is one of the best ways to support early literacy? When we sing, we naturally slow down words, making it easier for little ears to hear individual sounds. This helps kids develop phonological awareness—an essential skill for learning to read!

Try singing classic nursery rhymes or even making up silly songs about your daily routine. And if you're looking for a singable book, my stories are perfect for turning reading time into a fun musical experience! What's your child’s favorite song? Let me know in the comments!

Saturday, March 22, 2025

Let's Celebrate the Springtime!

 

My book Let's Celebrate the Springtime is on sale now for a mere $8.50 !  You must follow the special link below to purchase at that price as it is a deal through Ingram booksellers.  

Sing, read, and celebrate the wonders of spring! Written to the cheerful tune of Have You Ever Seen a Lassie, this delightful picture book invites young readers to explore the magic of the changing seasons.

As the days grow longer and the weather warms, little ones will discover blooming flowers, playful baby animals, rainy day fun, and breezy kite-flying adventures. With real springtime photos blended with whimsical cartoon illustrations, this book brings the beauty of spring to life in a way that engages and excites early learners.

Perfect for reading, singing, and exploring together, Let’s Celebrate the Springtime encourages early literacy skills while fostering a love for nature and seasonal change. Whether at home, in the classroom, or outdoors, this joyful book is a must-have for springtime fun!

🎶 Let’s celebrate the springtime—there’s change in the air! 🎶

✨ Ideal for ages 0-5
✨ Supports early literacy through rhythm, repetition, and song
✨ Encourages curiosity about nature and the seasons
✨ Great for storytime, singalongs, and outdoor adventures

Let's Celebrate the Springtime
Veselovsky, Cassie

Get ready to welcome spring with a book that’s as bright and joyful as the season itself!


Now, to keep in the spring mood, download a free counting rhyme of Five Little Ducks available on my Free Printables page:  Click to Download

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

How to Create an Eye-Catching Author Booth to Sell More Books

How to Create an Eye-Catching Author Booth to Sell More Books

Attending a craft fair, book festival, or local market is a fantastic way for independent authors to connect with readers, sell books, and build their brand. However, one common challenge is making sure attendees know that you are the author—not just a bookseller! A well-thought-out display can help you stand out, engage visitors, and boost sales.

1. Author Branding: Make It Clear Who You Are

One of the biggest mistakes new authors make is setting up a booth that looks more like a bookstore than an author’s table. Here’s how to fix that:

  • Banner & Signage: A large, clear sign with your name and “Children’s Book Author” is a must. You can include your photo and a fun tagline like “Meet the Author! Stories & Songs for Little Readers!”

  • Framed Author Bio: Display a short and engaging bio with a professional or fun photo of yourself. Include your social media handles so visitors can connect with you later.

  • Business Cards & QR Codes: Have a stack of business cards or bookmarks with a QR code leading to your website or online store.

  • Wear Your Brand: A T-shirt with your book’s logo, title, or your name can reinforce your branding.

2. Table Setup & Display Tips

Your booth should be welcoming, visually appealing, and easy to browse. Here’s how to create an engaging setup:

Layout Ideas

  • The “Meet the Author” Setup: Feature a large author sign, books displayed on stands, and an interactive space for signings or chats.

  • The “Storytime & Sales” Setup: Include a reading area, small props related to your books, and an activity like coloring sheets.

  • The “Bookstore Display” Setup: Use tiered shelving for a clean, professional look, with a focus on sales and book bundles.

Display Tips

  • Use Vertical Space: Tiered stands, bookshelves, or stacked crates help create an inviting, eye-catching display.

  • Tablecloth & Colors: A bright, clean tablecloth that matches your book’s theme makes your table pop.

  • Lighting: If indoors, use small fairy lights or clip-on lights to draw attention to your table.

3. Signage & Messaging That Sells

Your signs should communicate important information at a glance:

  • A “Meet the Author” sign (with your name and photo)

  • A “Get Your Book Signed!” sign near the checkout area

  • A price list (clear and professional—avoid handwritten signs)

  • Social media & website sign with QR codes for easy digital connections

4. Essential Items to Bring

Make sure you have these key items to keep your booth running smoothly:

  • Plenty of books (organized neatly in stacks or on shelves)

  • Sharpies or pens for book signing

  • Business cards, bookmarks, or flyers for those who don’t buy but want to follow you later

  • Payment options: A Square reader, PayPal/Venmo QR code, or cash box with change

  • A giveaway basket: Coloring pages, stickers, or small freebies to draw people in

  • A notebook for email sign-ups (or an iPad with a digital form)

5. Engaging with Visitors: Selling Without Feeling Salesy

Many authors aren’t natural salespeople, but connecting with potential readers doesn’t have to be awkward. Try these tips:

  • Have a quick introduction ready: “Hi! I’m [Your Name], and I write fun, singable picture books for little learners!”

  • Ask open-ended questions: “Who’s the little reader in your life?” or “What kinds of books does your child love?”

  • Offer a freebie: Coloring pages or bookmarks encourage visitors to stop and engage.

  • Host a mini reading session: If the fair allows, set a time for a short read-aloud to gather a crowd.

Final Thoughts

Creating an inviting and professional author booth takes some planning, but it’s well worth the effort. The key is to make it clear that you’re the author, use eye-catching signage, and engage visitors in a natural way. With a well-designed booth, you’ll leave every event with more book sales, new fans, and growing recognition as an author!

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Good Time at Harrison Cabin Fever Event!

 

Over the weekend I was up north at the Harrison, MI Cabin Fever Craft Show at the Lions club.  It was a really fun event well organized, but I discovered something... many visitors didn't realize I was the author of the books I was selling.  I've posted a picture of my sign.  How should it be changed?  I'm guessing I need "Meet the Author" in larger print and then my name in smaller print? 

It is just a little sign too.  I don't make enough to have a custom sign made yet.  I'm not sure what to do, but am thinking on it.  I was just thrown off that people didn't realize I was the author -  This one woman's whole demeanor changed when I clarified that I wrote the books.  She wasn't interested at all, picking up a book and glancing through it as if it wasn't worth her time.  I spoke up clarifying that I wrote the books, had over 60 titles, etc and then she lit up!  The books then became worth her time.  It was the oddest thing, but then I learned that there are companies that come to event selling books, a variety, not their own.  I hadn't realized that!  

In any case, I've learned, I need to clarify my advertising!  Something else to work on in my free time LOL