Meet David Shannon!

I got to Hicklebee's and found a sea of babies!

David Shannon was actually quite hilarious. He read his latest book, 'It's Christmas, David!' to the crowd.

He then drew David & broke it down for everyone with a little story. The jagged teeth are based on his childhood friend's yellow, ugly teeth. His nose is a crooked triangle because he broke his nose 5 times. My favorite: the left nostril is bigger because he's left handed (nose-picking... chuckle chuckle :)

David: what accessory could we give David?

Everyone: A HAT!!

Small voice from the crowd: Awww, I was gonna say ornaments for earrings.

David: No crossdressing, David!

Here's a lil video I took of him explaining where he gets ideas for his books :)

Storytime with David Wiesner

Yep. I was on the floor with all the kids, and definitely the only one over the age of 11.

Most valuable nugget of wisdom: 'Draw what you want. You can always learn to draw later.'

Seeing David Shannon today! Yay San Jose!

A Trip Down Memory/Productivity Lane

Today, I spent the afternoon in Willow Glen and rediscovered Hicklebee's Bookstore. This is the bookstore I frequented when I was a kid, at least once a week for most of my life. Love love love this bookstore.

I spent some time sifting through books, sprawled out on the floor like a kid flipping through to look at the pictures. It was perfect for getting me in the mood for work.

I spent the rest of the afternoon at the Willow Glen coffee shop where I storyboarded for my Oliver Jeffers contest submission, sketched out more calendar illustrations, and devised christmas cards.

Today was productive & magical. I couldn't ask for more than that really. Now, to do the animatic. I'm on fire!