So. I had a bit of a day yesterday. Actually, it all started two nights ago, when I got a certain phone call…from the Geisel Committee.

That’s right. If you haven’t already heard, THE INFAMOUS RATSOS was named a Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book. (More about the award here.)

Of course, it was my fondest hope/dream/wish that this would happen, but I never, ever really thought it would. I’m actually waiting to wake up right now and realize this has all been a dream. The past couple of weeks have been such a roller coaster, with very high highs (seeing my first novel, The Jolly Regina, finally published; joining millions this past Saturday in the Women’s March) and very low lows (a certain inauguration). But this high is stratospheric.

It’s not just the award itself, which is literally and figuratively an Honor to receive. It’s the outpouring of love and support I’ve received since the big announcement yesterday. Thank you thank you thank you to everyone who voiced their congratulations. It means everything. It keeps me going. It keeps me writing.

Big thanks to the brilliant Matt Myers for bringing the Ratsos to life with such humor and flair; to my wonderful editor, Sarah Ketchersid, and publisher (and alma mater!), Candlewick Press; and to my amazing agent, Barry Goldblatt. And a big CONGRATULATIONS to the other winners announced yesterday — and to the amazing authors and artists and books that weren’t announced yesterday. I bow to you all. Thank you for putting your hearts into your work, and putting your work out into the world.

The world can seem like a cruel and uncertain place these days. I’m just thrilled that my little story about kindness might bring some light and hope to young (and not-so-young) readers.

A few things:

• Speaking of kindness, it just happens to be Kindness Week! (Though, really, shouldn’t it be Kindness Week 52 weeks a year?) In any case, if you’d like to spread some around, feel free to download and print some of these Kindness Cards. They’re fun to color and decorate, and they’re a great way to show someone you care.
• If you’re sharing the book with your kiddos, you might find this discussion guide helpful.
• If you’d like to read some behind-the-scenes stories about THE INFAMOUS RATSOS, here are a few from my archives (NOTE: The contest/giveaway mentioned has already ended)…

The story behind two of the Ratsos’ neighbors, Mrs. Porcupini and Mr. O’Hare.

The story behind one of the Ratsos’ teachers, Miss Beavers.

The story behind the Ratsos’ friends: Tiny, Chad, and Fluffy.

The story behind the Ratsos’ dad, Big Lou.

The story behind The Infamous Ratsos, Louie and Ralphie.

Happy reading!