Children's Book Day honors Jean Craighead George

At our 15th annual Children’s Book Day on Saturday, we are dedicating the day to beloved children’s author Jean Craighead George.

Jean, who passed away earlier this year, has been one of our grandest and longest supporters. Her joie de vivre provided fun, dignity, and positive energy for nearly all of our 15 years. When inivted to participate, she was always among the first to respond with an enthusiastic, "Yes, of course I will be there!”

Visitors on Saturday will be able to browse her myriad titles and sign a guest book. 

So many people over the years have expressed what Jean’s books have meant to them. Jean always knew the right tone to take when writing for children, never preaching, and taught by simply telling of the wonders of nature. Jean wrote for children but never in a childish manner. Her lessons were lifelong, her love and thoughtfulness emanated from the pages.

Jean’s life was filled with love for her extensive family, friends and nature. She wrote with passion and genuine care of her subjects; human, wildlife, and the natural world. Her lifelong love of the world around her was evident in all her books. We should all be grateful to Jean for keeping the natural world in children’s literature and we miss her tremendously.

On Saturday, Children's Book Day -- deemed a Journal News pick of the year for 2012 (here's today's coverage), you can meet more than 50 of your favorite children's authors and illustrators, plus enjoy a 4:30 performance by Carole and Paula from The Magic Garden. The weather forecast is lovely, so we hope to see you there!