PhyllistheAuthor

Sometimes in the morning there is a brief period when the moonflowers that bloom only at night and the morning glories that bloom only in the mornings are both blooming at the same time.

It made me think of a common bit of doggerel:

Although Lottie's Courage was published in 2003, I still hear from readers. Most recently, I got a letter from Ashanti Sutherlin. She commented on the "intense moments" in the book and liked how "Lottie had a good friend" who helped her when she needed it. She "especially loved" the ending.

Thanks for your feedback, Ashanti! I always enjoy hearing from readers.

Ann Rinaldi, author of historical fiction for young adults, visited Williamsburg last week. She signed books at the Colonial Williamsburg Booksellers and I was invited to sign books at the same time.

It was nice to be able to chat with another author who likes history. I bought three of her books including her newest, The Color of Fire and had them autographed.

When you have outgrown my books, look into Rinaldi's. You won't be disappointed.

Until I read Good Brother, Bad Brother, The Story of Edwin Booth and John Wilkes Booth by James Cross Giblin, Clarion Books, 2005, I had not realized just how famous and wealthy actors were at the time of the Civil War.

Edwin Booth was arguably the most famous actor of his day. His brother, John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln was also a superstar. At a time when a Civil War Union soldier's wages were $13 per month, John Wilkes Booth earned $150 for a single reading. For four performances in Cleveland, he earned $1000.

I had also not realized that much of John Wilkes Booth's money went to support the Confederacy.

Kids who like the Civil War, theater, and stories about families will enjoy this book.

Kids often ask where I get ideas for my books. It's probably the most common question asked when I visit schools.

I get my ideas mainly from history. History has the word "story" in it, and I see the past as a great respository of stories, stories about people, our stories. They are our stories since we would not be alive today if our ancestors hadn't survived and thrived during times past.

History is so rich, I have more ideas than time. I do not see history as facts and dates and more facts. Instead I see history as people, not so unlike you and I, facing problems and overcoming difficulties.

Next time you have a history assignment at school ask yourself: Where were my ancestors at the time I'm studying? Did they take part in the events, and if not, why not?

Think about what you are learning in history in terms of stories. Imagine yourself taking part in the conflicts and events of the past. For example, would you have stayed with George Washington to brave the cold and despair at Valley Forge? Or would you have headed home to a warm fireplace, homecooking, and the company of family?

Moonflowers only bloom at night and have a heavy, sweet smell as if the moonflowers were a field of blossoms instead of only one or two. If the smell is intoxicating to humans, what must it be like for bees?

This Internet site is full of great stuff for kids. There are whole books on it for kids of all ages and a lot of resources, like historical documents, that could be used for school.

http://www.ipl.org/kidspace/browse/rzn0000

This is a great website to help you find out the names of the birds you see in your yard or neighborhood.

http://whatbird.wildbird.com/mwg/_/0/attrs.aspx