Friends and Anemones Anthology: Ocean Poems for Children from The Writer's Loft, Sherborn, MA November 2020
Amanda's debut as poet and illustrator. This brand new collection contains fun, educational poems paired with beautiful ocean-themed artwork. The Anthology features work from 70 talented New England creators including upcoming authors and illustrators alongside veterans Jane Yolen, Heidi Stemple, Lynda Mullaly Hunt, Peter Reynolds, and Josh Funk. The collection celebrates the joy and connection with nature and the sea.
"Dive under the enchanting cover—illustrated by esteemed local artist Jodie Apeseche—into a whimsical, watery world where you’ll rendezvous with petty penguins, little fish with big dreams, party-planning turtles, as well as anemones and crabs in the intertidal zone, and elusive sharks and jellies that call the deep sea home. With a smorgasbord of poetic types, dozens of captivating sea creatures, and fascinating facts, FRIENDS AND ANEMONES will feel as at home clinging to your bookshelf as it will floating in a school library. " -Audrey Day-Williams, Writer's Loft Member & Anthology Contributor
REVIEWS for Friends & Anemones: "Chock-full of clever, and educational poems with gorgeous illustrations. A great gift to pair with some fluffy sea creatures! We're giving this to a few people this year!"
"This fun anthology is beautiful and educational. The illustrations are amazing, and the poetry offers something for everyone. The end explains different types of poetry so kids (and adults) can write their own. The book also supports the Rozalia Project for a clean ocean. I have already gifted this to my nieces and making a list of who else I can gift it to." "This is a beautiful book - full of evocative, yet easy to read poems and great illustrations to boot. The edits did a wonderful job assembling a diverse set of verse about the ocean environment - as a marine biologist I particularly enjoyed the poems about animal behavior, as well as the poems that took me under the water. The Writers' Loft Press partnered with the Rozalia Project to make this book, to put a spotlight on the importance of reducing marine pollution. There are opportunities for young readers to reflect on and learn more about our watery world through the book - it is perfect for the young marine biologist on your list!"