This book was so loved that Chase felt the need to write a note inside the front cover: I remember her walking around and quoting the lines that had been read over and over to her: This sweet book found its way into my home and into the hands of my then four-year old daughter Chase. David Catrow’s whimsical illustrations featured a lead character with spiralling black hair. I Like Myself, written by Karen Beaumont, used energetic rhymes to deliver a story of self-love that featured a little brown girl with a dynamic personality. In 2004 a new children’s book made a delightful debut. I met Dorena in person a few years ago and knew right away she was a kindred spirit. That’s right! We have the same name, but a different spelling, and we share a passion for multicultural books. Mike makes his home in Franklin, TN, with his wife and two children.This month I’m collaborating with fellow children’s book authors and featuring a series called “Why Representation Matters in Children’s Literature.” Each week, I’ll be sharing a guest essay by one of my favorite children’s book authors on this topic culminating with a book giveaway. Today I’m excited to welcome my friend Dorena to the blog. Mike is currently focused on developing new children’s properties centered around fun characters, engaging storytelling, and wholesome values. In addition, Mike has authored a number of VeggieTales books and CD projects as well as developing and writing for another of Big Idea’s hit animated properties, 3-2-1 Penguins.

Mike has created, written, and directed most of the popular “Silly Songs with Larry” segments, including fan favorites “His Cheeseburger” and “The Hairbrush Song.” He has also lent his screenwriting and directing talents to dozens of VeggieTales episodes such as “Madame Blueberry and The League of Incredible Vegetables,” as well as both of the properties’ theatrical release films, Jonah and The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything. Mike Nawrocki is the co-creator of VeggieTales and the voice of the beloved Larry The Cucumber, has been part of the pulse of the Veggie brand since its inception in 1993. A three-time Mom’s Choice Award winner, she lives outside Nashville with her husband and their two sons. Her books have sold more than 1.5 million copies.

Amy Parker is the bestselling author of over fifty books for children, teens, and adults, including A Night Night Prayer and the Christian Retailing’s Best Award winners Firebird and Courageous Teens, which she co-authored.

Crowned with glory dorena williamson