Jane Yolen

Jane Yolen was born in New York City in 1939. Both of her parents were writers and so were most of their friends. While still in preschool, Jane composed her first poem. "I love to recite my first poem to kids when I talk to them – because it was so bad that I tell them that, clearly, they're writing better poems than that."

Yolen's writing did improve throughout her school years. In the first grade, she wrote the class musical. In high school, she won a Scholastic poetry contest. At Smith College, Yolen won awards for her poetry and journalism. After graduation, Yolen moved to Manhattan to work in the publishing industry. Soon thereafter, at age 22, she sold her first book, Pirates in Petticoats.

Since then, Yolen has published over 250 books, including folktales, fairytales, science fiction, poetry, informational books, picture books, young adult novels, and more. Yolen's books have won numerous awards, appeared on bestsellers lists, and some have been converted into movies. Yolen has also played an active role in literary organizations such as the Science Fiction Writers of America, the Western New England Storytellers Guild, and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.

Jane Yolen and her husband divide their time between western Massachusetts and St. Andrews, Scotland.

Books by This Author

How Do Dinosaurs Eat Cookies?

How Do Dinosaurs Eat Cookies?
Illustrated by: Mark Teague
Age Level: 0-3

The ever popular dinos are back, this time making and eating cookies always using their best manners. Rhyming text and outrageous illustrations are humorous. Two recipes and "scratch & sniff" are extras presented in this brief board book.

How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food?

How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food?
Illustrated by: Mark Teague
Age Level: 3-6

They’re back! This time, the creators of How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night? take on obnoxious and downright gross behaviors at mealtime. While kids will find delight when the Amargasaurus flips his spaghetti into the air or the Lambeosaurus blows bubbles in milk, adults will appreciate the presentation of calm and more appropriate behavior.

How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon?

How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon?
Illustrated by: Mark Teague
Age Level: 0-3

Short rhyming text contrasts with illustrations of huge dinosaurs who are ailing with sniffles and coughs. Of course, the dinosaurs (with their names tucked into each page) are being helped by a caring but seemingly small adult in this companion to How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?

How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?

How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?
Illustrated by: Mark Teague
Age Level: 3-6

Ten sleepy dinosaurs get ready for bed in this celebration of funny, endearing, and naughty bedtime behavior. Young children will laugh out loud as they recognize themselves in this larger than life silliness.

How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?

How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?
Illustrated by: Mark Teague
Age Level: 0-3

While parents may be miffed when young dinosaurs test limits, they are always reassured of their parents' cunfailing love. Told in rhyme, this latest addition to the series by this talented writer/artist team is sure to please young children as they cuddle with their parents.

Mirror to Nature: Poems about Reflection

Illustrated by: Jason Stemple
Age Level: 3-6
A variety of animals in their natural habitat are presented here in handsome full color photographs accompanied by a range of short poems that they inspired. Both words and pictures present reflections, literal and figurative, and will likely generate discussion.

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