No Books For Benjamin? introduces young readers to a lovable little worm who lives and works at the Library of Congress and finds himself heartbroken when a mysterious illness forces libraries across the country to close. Where did the idea for this story come from?

I originally did not plan a sequel to Books For Benjamin.  However, in visiting schools and talking to kids, many asked if there would be another Benjamin book, as they liked the character.  The idea for this second book came during the pandemic, when so many libraries had to close their doors. I remember feeling how strange and sad it was not to have that space open, and I thought about what it would mean for someone who lived and breathed books every day. The book is my nod to librarians who personally witnessed as a teacher come up with creative ways to get real books into the hands of children. They are the real-life heroes! I thought it would be fun to have Benjamin and friends take on this role. 

Do you have a favorite scene in this book? One that was especially fun to write?

It’s actually not one scene, but starts with Ginger, the ant, offering to help deliver books by flexing her muscles and declaring how strong ants are.  This is followed by scenes of Whizby, the dragonfly delivering books by air, as dragonflies are super-fast fliers, and Dotty, the ladybug, contributing by landing up and down on a spray disinfectant can.  I imagined writing funny scenes where there are a few hiccups with this (For example, the ant group falls like dominoes when one ant ignores “halt” because he is reading a book, one dragonfly accidentally drops his parachute of books on a dog’s head).  But ultimately, the plan works. The message I hoped to impart to kids is that everyone has something to offer, no matter how small.

The artwork in your book is wonderful. Can you share with us a little about your collaboration with illustrator Uliana Barabash?

Uliana was incredible to work with. From the very beginning, she just got Benjamin—his warmth, his curiosity, and that spark of determination. We talked through ideas, but honestly, she always surprised me with details that made the illustrations feel alive. Seeing her bring Benjamin’s world to life was one of the most rewarding parts of this whole process.  I just get a big smile every time I look at this purple worm she illustrated with his crazy hair and funny expressions.  Kids have often thanked me for writing a story about a not-so-often-loved character, but I really know it is Uliana’s magical illustration and choice to make him purple that turned this character into a lovable one.

Can you give us a glimpse inside the next book in the Benjamin and Friends series?

Yes! In the next book, Benjamin ventures outside the library and starts to discover that stories aren’t only found in books—they’re in people, places, and even in the adventures we have. He meets some new friends who help him see the world in new ways. It’s really about friendship, resilience, and finding stories everywhere you look.  I am also trying to imagine a story where Benjamin helps reluctant readers find the magic in books!

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