About Me
ABOUT ME
My name is Lauri and I work at the busy DeWitt Community Library in DeWitt, NY. Besides being a huge picture book and pop-up book fan, I enjoy writing children’s stories. I have been writing seriously since 2005. I have several stories written that I have been submitting to publishers. I hope one day you will see some of my picture books on library and bookstore shelves. It’s a highly competitive business, so I will have to persist in my endeavors to become a published picture book author.
I am currently working towards a degree in Library and Information Services through Spokane Falls Community College. It’s a completely online program-convenient, interesting, and enjoyable, while at the same time, quite challenging.
On a more personal note, I am married to a wonderful man, Chris, who holds a third-degree black belt in karate. I love to play with our little Lhasa Apso dog, Java. And in my spare time (what’s that?) I enjoy reading and drawing (well, trying to draw anyway).
I am also a strong proponent of the benefits of reading, for people of all ages, but especially for children. If children are introduced to books and reading early on and throughout their growing-up years, I know that they will become strong readers. The best way to start is by reading picture books. So parents, read picture books with your children often. Remember, some picture books are meant for children all the way up to the age of eight or nine. And some people never lose their love for these wonderful works of art. Just look at me!
The ability to read is the jump-off point from which all of life’s successes take flight.
Lauri Fortino
ABOUT FINLEY
Finley is THE Frog On A Blog. He is the main character in my children’s story entitled Finley’s Fabulous Friendship Coat (formerly called Finley’s Fur Coat). You can link to this story from the Frog On A Blog sidebar on the right. Finley’s Fur Coat took 6th place in the fourth annual (2008) ABC’s Children’s Picture Book Competition, sponsored by Rita Mills and the Book Connection, in a field of about 150 submissions. Finley is a friendly, playful frog with a wacky fashion sense. His best friend is Chelsey. She’s a chipmunk. When she was sick, Finley stuck by her side. He’s a very loyal frog.
Illustration by Bill Megenhardt
The views expressed on Frog on a Blog are solely my own and do not necessarily represent the views of the DeWitt Community Library.
Feb 14, 2010 @ 07:11:48
You know Beatrix Potter had difficulty publishing, and she is one of the most widely known and published children’s book author ever.
I love picture books too, and I am almost ready for Medicare.
Thank you for your fun and informative blog.
Feb 14, 2010 @ 12:40:23
Thank you Pat. It’s a tough business and you have to have a thick skin. But it’s hard not to take rejections personally. I know that all authors get rejected, children’s book authors included. And for many, it can literally take years to get an acceptance. Once you get your foot in the door, a whole new world can open up for you.
Jun 19, 2010 @ 10:11:25
Dear Lauri,
I was in the neighborhood, so, I thought I’d drop by. It’s great to see you and The Finster again. He sure looks flush in his fine fur! Chelsey the Chipmunk is blessed to have such a loyal friend.
During this visit I clicked on “about me” and was very happy to hear of your success in the 2008 ABC’s Children’s Picture Book Competition. Well Done! Finley already has a following, and there’s no doubt in my mind that some savvy publisher will accept your series. Finley’s sweet and adventurous nature, unique fashion sense, and wonderful group of friends will soon be enjoyed by lots and lots of little ones (and big ones, too)!
I’m going to putter around your site now. Be well, Lauri.
MP
Jun 20, 2010 @ 19:57:36
Thanks so much Mary. I truly appreciate your kind words and confidence in my story. I can only hope you’re right about that savvy publisher. Take care.