Cynsational Books of 2024

Cynsations is celebrating its 20th anniversary by switching to a quarterly publishing schedule, featuring in-depth interviews and articles. Thank you for your ongoing support and enthusiasm!

By Gayleen Rabakukk

The Cynsational Books of 2024 were selected by Cynthia Leitich Smith from nominations by Cynsations Team members. Titles published by Heartdrum or authored/illustrated by Cynsations team members are ineligible.

Continue Reading Cynsational Books of 2024 »

Nonfiction for Older Readers: Martha Brockenbrough on the Joys of Writing Nonfiction

By Bree Bender

Award-winning author Martha Brockenbrough has written more than a dozen books for children and teens. Her work covers a wide range of topics from biographies to masterful fairytale retellings, nonfiction to fiction. Her work is insightful, thought-provoking, and industry changing. I had the incredible opportunity to chat with her about books,

Continue Reading Nonfiction for Older Readers: Martha Brockenbrough on the Joys of Writing Nonfiction »

Picture Book Biographies: Azadeh Westergaard & Meghan P. Browne Reveal Their Writing Processes

By Stephani Martinell Eaton and Gayleen Rabakukk

Azadeh Westergaard

We are delighted to welcome author and illustrator Azadeh Westergaard to Cynsations today. Azadeh’s debut picture book, A Life Electric, illustrated by Júlia Sardà (Viking, 2021), focuses on the life of Nikola Tesla.

Continue Reading Picture Book Biographies: Azadeh Westergaard & Meghan P. Browne Reveal Their Writing Processes »

Author Interview: Martha Brockenbrough on Real-Life Inspirations for Stories

By Gail Vannelli

If you love old dogs and small kids, Martha Brockenbrough’s newly published picture book This Old Dog, illustrated by Gabriel Alborozo (Levine Querido, 2020) will capture your attention and your heart as you experience a friendship blooming between “old dog” and “his girl.” The story is remarkably well written,

Continue Reading Author Interview: Martha Brockenbrough on Real-Life Inspirations for Stories »