Jan Brett: Children's Author and Illustrator Extraordinaire

Does your child enjoy animals? Bright, detailed illustrations? Discovering separate stories in the borders of a book's pages? Learning about other cultures? Then he/she (and probably you, too!) will love Jan Brett's books.

I first became acquainted with Jan Brett's work when I was a teacher, in the early '90s. I was attracted by her unique illustrating style and by the various European cultures depicted in her books. I have to admit, the idea of traveling to Europe to do "research" sounded great to me! And that's just what Jan does.

Jan now has 33 million books in print. She lives in Massachusetts, where she was also born. She studied art at the Boston Museum School. Her husband, Joe, is a member of the Boston Symphony. Their travels for book research have taken them all over the world. Europe was her starting spot, but she's now ventured to Africa, the Arctic Circle, and the Rain Forest as well. In each spot, she researches the costumes and architecture of the area, and these are seen in beautiful detail in her illustrations.

Jan also loves animals. Her favorite animal is the lowly hedgehog, and she tries to incorporate a hedgehog into each of her books. I feel a special bond with Jan, because it was through her books that my own daughter became obsessed with getting a hedgehog of her own. After much searching, it did eventually happen:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/303609/pet_hedgehogs_perspective_from_an_owner.html?cat=53

Jan travels widely promoting her books. In October 2005, my daughters and I had the pleasure of seeing Jan at our local Border's bookstore. She spoke about her latest book, "Hedgie Blasts Off", and drew a hedgehog for her eager audience. We found her to be warm, friendly and interesting. She told us interesting "insider information" about her book, such as who she used as models for various characters.

Jan's website, www.janbrett.com, is a fantastic resource for teachers and parents. You will find all sorts of printable coloring sheets, bookmarks, online games, and contests (we have actually won!). Visit the site when you have plenty of time - it's addicting!

Where to begin with Jan's many books? How about "The Mitten", probably one of her most famous. It's a re-telling of a familiar folktale, set in Russia. It is wonderful for young children. Jan has illustrated and re-told several folktales and fairy tales, and I have loved each and every one. Check out her "Beauty and the Beast" or "Goldilocks and the Three Bears".

Of Jan's original stories, "Hedgie's Surprise", "Comet's Nine Lives", "Trouble with Trolls", "Wild Christmas Reindeer", and "Berlioz the Bear" have been favorites at our house.

"Gingerbread Friends" is Jan's newest book. Treat your favorite child to it for Christmas!