It’s no wonder why Hannah Barnaby of Charlottesville, Virginia, began writing books. With almost every job she’s undertaken, there’s been a relation to books, whether she cataloged, repaired, barcoded, shelved, sold, edited or reviewed them. The next step was obvious—children’s book author. Barnaby’s sense of humor is evident, especially when reading her website where she lists her career as “children’s book author, writing instructor and manager of mayhem.”
In the chapter book series, “Monster and Boy,” Monster sleeps under the bed, Boy sleeps in the bed and both spend their days playing together. Children can read about the adventures of two best friends and enjoy Anoosha Syed’s illustrations that bring the characters to life. The adventurous and humorous chapter books are ideal for kids who are transitioning from picture books to independent readers.
In “Monster and Boy: Monster’s First Day of School,” Monster is intent on finding out where his friend goes each day and decides he’ll go to school, too. He meets the teacher and classmates and learns about cubbies and the sharing circle. He even helps to solve a mystery when the class pet hedgehog goes missing.
“Monster and Boy: The Sister Surprise” has Monster noticing that Boy seems grouchy. It turns out his mom broke the news that he’s getting a baby sister. Just like best friends do, Monster tries to cheer up Boy. He takes him on a surprise adventure. Monster’s own sister tags along, and they learn how monster babies are born and how they get their names.
When not reading the “Monster and Boy” series, children will enjoy curling up with “Home Is…,” a book that explores the places creatures call home. The mountains, seas, meadows, trees, small towns and big cities are places people and animals make their homes. Youngsters will learn that some homes last forever while others change with the seasons. The addition of lyrical rhyming text makes this book great for reading aloud.
“There’s nothing I like better than sneaking away for a few minutes to jot down an idea for a new story,” Barnaby says on her website. “Most of my books started with a ‘what if’ question, but ideas are everywhere. I make sure to always have a notebook and pen in case I find an idea to save for later.”
Barnaby holds a master of arts degree in children’s literature from Simmons College and a master of fine arts degree in writing for children and young adults from Vermont College. With a background of teaching multiple workshops at “Highlights” and the regional Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, she has also led book and chapter book intensives at the Writing Barn.
To find out more about Hannah Barnaby, her children’s books and how to order them, visit her website at hannahbarnaby.com.
