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                      of Published Authors and Illustrators of Books

                     for Children and Young Adults.

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Diane deGroat

Author/Illustrator

 

Diane deGroat grew up in New Jersey. She attended Pratt Institute, graduating in 1969 with a BFA in commercial art. She started her career at Holt, Rinehart and Winston, designing their first basic reading series, K-6. Since 1972, Ms. deGroat has free-lanced in advertising, editorial and design, but the main focus of her work has been in children's book illustration, with over 140 books to her credit. Many titles are for well-known authors such as Eve Bunting, Lois Lowry, Johanna Hurwitz and even Dr. Ruth.

Since 1995 Diane has been writing her own stories. The Gilbert and Friends series is her award-winning collection of stories about a beloved opossum who encounters situations that every first grader can identify with. The Annie Pitts series features America's favorite redhead as she tries to pursue an acting career–but first she has to survive third grade!

Her best selling picture books include Gilbert's Roses are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink, and Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet. Her most recent illustrations are for Charlie the Ranch Dog, written by Ree Drummond, a #1 book on the New York Times Bestseller list. She is currently illustrating the fifth book in the series: Charlie Plays Ball (HarperCollins, 2015).

Diane deGroat resides in Amherst, MA.

 

School Presentations

For grades 2 and up:

My PowerPoint presentation explains everything you've ever wanted to know about children's book illustration, beginning with a tour of my studio as I explain materials and equipment. You'll learn how an illustration is conceived, sketched and painted, step-by-step. What kind of research do I use? How has the computer changed my style of working? An overview of the writing process is covered, including the importance of rewriting, and explaining what an editor does. This presentation is 45 to 60 minutes, and can be interactive for smaller groups.

For grades K and 1

I will read one or two of my (or your) favorite Gilbert books, while projecting the art on a screen. I then add a short program showing the studio and the materials I use. If time allows, I have the children help me write a Gilbert story. This presentation is 30 to 45 minutes long.

Please see www.dianedegroat.com for more information about these programs. Teacher Guides can be found on the home page, and the section on Classroom Connections (click on School Visits) has ideas about how my books can be used for enrichment.

Fees:

Schools: $1500 per day, for a maximum of four sessions. This can be at one school or shared with another nearby school for a half day in each location.

Workshops: $750

Keynote: $1000

Library presentations: $500

For areas requiring air travel, there is a two-day minimum visit. The contact host will coordinate scheduling and make hotel reservations. Author will arrange air travel, which will be reimbursed along with meals and hotel. There is the option for the author to use a rental car or to be shuttled about by merry volunteers. Payment is due on the day of the author's visit. For schools within driving distance, there is a mileage fee (50¢ per mile).

Contact

Diane deGroat
P. O. Box 3245
Amherst, MA 01002

info@dianedegroat.com

 

For more information, go to www.dianedegroat.com – Selected as one the ALA/ALSC Great Websites for Kids! (2008)

 

Published Books

A complete list is available on the author’s website.

Charlie and the New Baby

Ree Drummond (Author), Diane DeGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover 40 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (April 2014) ISBN: 0062297503

Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman and #1 New York Times bestselling author of Charlie the Ranch Dog and her lovable hound are back in Charlie and the New Baby. With expressive illustrations by Diane deGroat, a new delicious recipe from Ree Drummond and the hilarious antics of Charlie, this picture book is a surefire hit! There's nothing that makes Charlie's soul rejoice more than naps and bacon. But when his daily routine of eating and sleeping is interrupted by a new baby calf, Abigail, Charlie is not happy! Things go from bad to worse when Charlie sees everyone rubbing Abigail's belly-instead of his; feeding her–instead of him; and tucking Abigail in at the end of the day–in Charlie's bed. Will Charlie be able to adjust to the new addition?

 

Charlie Goes to School

Ree Drummond (Author), Diane DeGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover 40 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (June 2013) ISBN: 0062219200

Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman and #1 New York Times bestselling author of Charlie the Ranch Dog, shares Charlie's newest tale: Charlie Goes to School. Charlie the Ranch Dog may be top dog, but he's ready to share his skills–and his responsibilities. Charlie wants to start his own school for the ranch animals. If Suzie, Kitty, and Walter can learn how to lend a paw, he can focus on other important things, like napping! With expressive illustrations by acclaimed artist Diane deGroat and Charlie's hilarious antics, Ree Drummond's latest picture book is the perfect back-to-school treat.

 

Homer

by Shelley Rotner (Author), Diane deGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4 and up Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: Orchard Books (March 1, 2012) ISBN-10: 0545332729. ISBN-13: 978-0545332729

Vist the Silly Dogs website

Editorial Reviews

Alex and Homer live, breathe, and dream baseball. But this is Homer's story. There's a big game tonight, one that would decide the league champion. Homer's team is down by three runs in the bottom of the ninth. Some nice hitting loads the bases, and needless to say Homer hits a grand slam. It's just a typical baseball tale. But the teams are the Hounds and the Doggers, and all the players are dogs of many breeds, as are the umpires, spectators and the announcer. The story is told with the briefest of simple phrases and sentences, some in speech balloons or thought bubbles, and illustrated with double-page spreads and album-like panels of digitally collaged photographs. The format is everything here. The digital art supplies the uniforms, banners, and other odds and ends, while the dogs have been photographed in myriad head poses and body positions. A few might have been digitally enhanced, but if so, they are seamless. Young readers will surely giggle at puns like, "It's going to be a ruff game!" There's also a distracting squirrel and a well placed fire hydrant. Alex awakes to find Homer in his usual place, but there's an autographed ball on the rug... Even the endpapers are part of the fun, taking the form of doggie baseball cards.  A howlingly good time! –  Kirkus Reviews

The team behind Dogs Don't Brush Their Teeth! returns with an even more outrageous canine adventure, illustrated with digitally enhanced photos to an almost comic book-like effect. On "one special night," golden retriever Homer sneaks out to join his teammates, the "Doggers," in a baseball game against the "Hounds" (endpapers feature baseball cards of the players from both teams, identifying their breeds.) The dogs assume human poses and wear digitally drafted uniforms as they take the field; meanwhile dog fans yowl, yip, and enjoy ballpark treats in the bleachers. The artwork is filled with humorous details—from the border terrier Rocket relieving himself on a fire hydrant before hitting a single, to a close-up of Homer, clutching the bat as his fans swoon. The game-time tension, along with the innate goofiness of the artwork, could make this a dog-eared favorite. – Publishers Weekly

Charlie the Ranch Dog

Ree Drummond (Author), Diane deGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover: 40 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (April 26, 2011) ISBN-10: 0061996556 ISBN-13: 978-0061996559

Meet Charlie. He's a ranch dog. Breakfast is his life, especially when bacon is involved. Charlie has dangly ears, floppy skin, and big fat paws. And he loves living in the country. That's because he works like a dog...fixing fences, gardening, and helping his family out on the range. Yep, it's all work, all the time for Charlie the ranch dog. In fact, he's probably working right now... Zzzzzzz.... A ranch dog's work is never done! Come along as Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman, introduces us to her beloved short-legged pioneer dog named Charlie.

New York Times #1 bestseller!

Editorial Reviews

Young readers will chuckle at the unabashed, obvious humor and will especially enjoy finding the hidden, unnamed chipmunk buddy on every page. – Kirkus Reviews

DeGroat’s cozy illustrations picture a beguiling Charlie on a comfortable ranch with appealing accoutrement. An observant chipmunk adds an extra touch of humor, and a lasagna recipe is thrown in for good measure. – Booklist

The comic irony of the text will amuse readers, and Charlie’s quirks will win many fans. – School Library Journal

“Adult readers will recognize in Charlie’s voice the understated humor that has made Drummond’s blog so successful; kids should find it irresistible. – Publishers Weekly

Selected as one of Time Magazine's Top Ten children's books for 2009!

Dogs Don't Brush Their Teeth

Diane deGroat (Collaborator), Shelley Rotner (Collaborator) Reading level:.. Ages 4-8 Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: Orchard Books (August 1, 2009) ISBN-10: 0545080649 ISBN-13: 978-0545080644

Readers of all ages will howl out loud as fifteen different dogs show what they can do, and what they can't do!  The hysterical photographs and illustrations are paired with foldout fun.  Dogs make us laugh with the many things they do.  But readers will laugh out-loud when they discover what dogs can't do. website Book Trailer

Ants in Your Pants, Worms in Your Plants (Gilbert Goes Green)

Diane deGroat Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (February 22, 2011) ISBN-10: 0061765112 ISBN-13: 978-0061765117

Gilbert has trouble coming up with ideas. First he couldn't think of a springtime poem, and now he needs an idea for an Earth Day project! Everyone else in Mrs. Byrd's class is busy working on posters about recycling and saving water and electricity, but Gilbert wants to do something original. A distressing class picnic inspires him, and he comes up with an Earth Day project that even Mrs. Byrd thinks is the best idea yet. With vivid, lively illustrations and a timely story about how kids really can help the world around them, Diane deGroat shows readers of all ages that sometimes the simplest solutions are right in our own backyards!

Editorial Reviews

Gilbert's class embraces springtime with poetry, picnics, and Earth Day projects, but Gilbert is jittery over his lack of ideas. While the other students come up with lines of verse and brainstorm projects, many of which show up in thought bubbles above their heads, Gilbert's are completely blank. Meanwhile Mrs. Byrd's gentle suggestion that wiggly Gilbert has "ants in his pants" has him noticing ants everywhere-and eventually they lead him in the right direction. The cartoon illustrations add detail to the story, and fans of Gilbert and friends will enjoy reading about their Earth-friendly plans in this latest addition to the series.-Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. – School Library Journal

April Fool! Watch Out at School!

by Diane DeGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: HarperCollins (February 17, 2009) ISBN-10:0061430420 ISBN-13:978-0061430428

It's April Fools' Day, and Gilbert is looking forward to playing tricks on his friends. Unfortunately he's the one getting tricked by everyone else, including Mrs. Byrd! But the worst prankster is Lewis the bully. In the end Gilbert outwits Lewis with the best trick of all. Diane deGroat's delightful story and fun-filled illustrations will enchant readers of all ages, especially when they discover the surprises in many of the illustrations. The reader is getting April Fooled, too!

Editorial Reviews

The cartoon illustrations abound with visual tricks that observant viewers are sure to notice. DeGroat continues to show that she has a keen sense of classroom dynamics and the ability to connect with readers and their world. A popular choice for seasonal read-alouds.—Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. – School Library Journal

Children will find it easy to sympathize with gullible yet sometimes cagy Gilbert, appearing here in the twelfth volume of the Gilbert and Friends series. And they’ll enjoy studying the colorful illustrations for the many sight gags that go unmentioned in the text. A good picture book to share on this peculiar holiday. Preschool-Grade 2. --Carolyn Phelan, Booklist

Gilbert, the Surfer Dude (I Can Read Book )

Diane deGroat (Author, Illustrator) Reading level: Baby-Preschool Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (April 2009) ISBN-10: 0061252115 ISBN-13: 978-0061252112

Here comes Surfer Dude! Gilbert and his family are going to the beach, and everyone's very excited. It seems like this is going to be a perfect day . . . until Lola is afraid of the water and Gilbert forgets his bathing suit! At the store, Gilbert finds a big bathing suit that says Surfer Dude on it. Gilbert looks cool, but he soon discovers that being a surfer dude is harder than it looks.

Lola gets her feet wet, but will Gilbert sink or swim in this fun-filled day at the beach? Join Gilbert, the beloved opossum, as he has an exciting adventure in his first I Can Read book.

Editorial Reviews

This I Can Read Book in the Gilbert and Friends series does its job. It’s short, amusing, and will keep kids reading. Gilbert and family are on their way to the beach when Gilbert remembers that he forgot something—his bathing suit. He insists on wearing his new trunks that say Surfer Dude, even though they’re too big. Surfing and oversize trunks can only lead to one thing. Adults will see it coming, but new readers probably won’t. They’ll enjoy looking at the seaside doings in the friendly art while they sharpen their reading skills. Grades K-2. --Ilene Cooper, Booklist

[Readers will] enjoy looking at the seaside doings in the friendly art while they sharpen their reading skills. – ALA Booklist

Mother, You're the Best!  (But Sister, You're a Pest!)

Diane deGroat Reading level: Ages 4-8 Library Binding: 32 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (March 11, 2008) ISBN-10: 0061239003 ISBN-13: 978-0061239007

It's Mother's Day, and Gilbert wants to show his mother that she's the best! But nothing he does seems to work out quite right. To make matters worse, his little sister always manages to be in the way! Can Gilbert ever have his mother all to himself today? But more importantly, can he make this Mother's Day truly special?

Diane deGroat's heartfelt story and endearing illustrations will resonate with any reader who has ever had to share a parent's attention with a sibling.

Last One in Is a Rotten Egg

Diane deGroat Reading level: All Ages Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (February 1, 2007) ISBN-13: 978-0060892944 ISBN: 0060892943

Gilbert and Lola are excited. Their cousin Wally is coming for a visit—just in time for the Easter egg hunt! But they soon learn how competitive Wally has become. He has to eat the fastest, be first on line, and find the most eggs, no matter who gets hurt. How can Gilbert deal with such relentless rivalry?

In this humorous and encouraging story by Diane deGroat, Gilbert—everyone's favorite opossum—teaches Wally who the rotten egg really is!

Editorial Reviews

In this 10th book about Gilbert, the young opossum and his sister are excited about their cousin's visit. They soon realize, however, that having Wally around isn't as much fun as they had imagined. He is so competitive that he turns everything into a contest. "Last one in is a rotten egg" is his favorite phrase, which he yells while running to beat the others at whatever activity is taking place, even getting to the lunch table first. The children attend an Easter egg hunt and Wally fills his basket quickly while Gilbert takes the time to help his little sister search for eggs. Lola spots the golden egg, which signifies a prize, but neither she nor Gilbert can reach it high in a tree. Wally takes it from its perch but instead of giving it to Lola, keeps it for himself. In the end, Lola wins her prize, Wally learns to share, and the three become friends. Pastel, cartoon-style watercolor illustrations depict the activities while revealing the small town's populace made up of raccoons, porcupines, rabbits, cats, and dogs. Children will relate to the story, which imparts a gentle lesson on how to be a friend.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. – School Library Journal

No More Pencils, No More Books, No More Teacher's Dirty Looks!

Diane deGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: HarperCollins (April 25, 2006) ISBN: 0060791152

It's the last day of school! Gilbert is excited about summer vacation, but first there's the class party, and Mrs. Byrd will give out the end-of-the-year awards. But will Gilbert even get one? Patty's the best speller. Philip's the best reader. What is Gilbert best at? Humorous and reassuring, this story by Diane deGroat perfectly captures the bittersweet emotions of the last day of school. As Gilbert's class says good-bye to Mrs. Byrd, she reminds each of them how special they really are. And that she will miss them very, very much!

Brand-new Pencils, Brand-new Books

Diane deGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover: 32 pages  Publisher: HarperCollins; 1st edition (July 1, 2005) ISBN: 006072613X

It's the first day of first grade! Gilbert is excited and nervous at the same time. He has new school supplies -- but he'll also get a new teacher, and new kids in his class. Will the teacher be nice? Will Patti still be his best friend? In this humorous and reassuring story by Diane deGroat, Gilbert learns that first grade is not what he had expected. Lewis is a bully, and Philip already knows how to read big fat books! But Mrs. Byrd is nice, and she helps Gilbert discover that everyone has his or her own special talent.

Editorial Reviews

deGroat ably threads her way through some well-trod ground: the first day of school. Gilbert, our favorite opossum, has a classic case of the willies as he sets out on his first day of school: Will the teacher be nice, will he be able to do the work, will he make friends? Luckily, he already has one good friend, but then there are all those other unfamiliar faces, one belonging to the loud, bullying Lewis. Then the school day gradually begins to fall into place and Gilbert finds a comfortable niche therein: a new friend, an enjoyable playground, a book to read that is a pleasing challenge. He also learns that Mr., Pug, the principal, isn't grumpy. Pugs just always look grumpy. deGroat's watercolors—with their easygoing charm —evolve from expectant to relaxed as the kids find what first-graders have always found: School rarely meets their dire predictions, and even kids like Lewis have their time-honored place. Jun 15, 2005 – Kirkus Reviews

Lola Hides the Eggs

Diane deGroat (Author and Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Paperback: 16 pages Publisher: Harper Festival (February 1, 2005) ISBN: 0060583908

This Easter Lola is putting on her bunny ears to hide eggs for her family. Soon all the eggs are found -- except one. Where could it be?

Lola's Trick or Treat

by Diane deGroat Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Edition: Paperback, 16 pages Publisher: Harper Festival
Lift-Flap edition (September 1, 2004) ISBN: 0060583894

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annie Pitts, Artichoke

Diane deGroat Reading level: Ages 9-12  - 80 pages Reprint edition (April 2001) Seastar Pub Co. Kindle edition.

During a class trip to the supermarket, Annie Pitts almost puts an end to her acting career before it even gets off the ground when she throws a dead fish at her enemy Matthew. As punishment, she's served up the least appetizing part in the school play on nutrition: the artichoke. But Annie proves that the show must go on, even when the actors forget their lines...or fall flat on their backs!

Editorial Reviews

Amusing and highly palatable reading fare, with sprightly, realistically drawn illustrations that enhance the book's energy and fun. – Booklist

Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire

Diane deGroat (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Edition: Hardcover  32 pages Publisher: SeaStar Books; (February 2003) ISBN: 1587172143

When Mrs. Byrd tells Gilbert’s class that they’re going to be doing plays about famous people, Gilbert’s heart sinks. Plays make him nervous – what if he forgets his lines? So when he lands the role of George Washington in a play about the cherry tree, he’s determined to do it without any mistakes. But when his most important prop goes missing right before the show, Gilbert loses his cool and looks to blame anyone but himself.

The seventh story about this most beloved opossum is a wise and funny tale of truth and lies – and butterflies! – that’s a perfect tie-in for President’s Day, Independence Day, and school units on biography.

Editorial Reviews

Okay, so the story of George Washington's cutting down the cherry tree has been proven more hagiography than biography, but this story, in which Gilbert the opossum plays Washington in the familiar incident, is so much fun allowances can be made. Gilbert isn't crazy about his role; he would prefer to be the tree so he doesn't blow any lines. Against the rules, he brings his Washington hat home to better practice his part, but he goes overboard with the story's signature line, as when his mother feeds him a new soup: "I cannot tell a lie. I don't like it." The next day he forgets to bring the hat back, and he implies Philip took it. He then gets a good lesson in the importance of telling the truth (and another in forgiveness, from Philip) that brings the story full circle. Fans of previous books about Gilbert, such as Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet (1998), will appreciate Gilbert's return, and new readers will be drawn right in by the humorous text, the sprightly art with its all-animal cast, and the message that peeks through the fun. Ilene Cooper. Copyright American Library Association. All rights reserved – Booklist

Gus & Gertie and the Lucky Charms

Joan Lowery Nixon, Diane deGroat (Illustrator), Reading level: Ages 4-8 Edition: Paperback 48 pages Publisher: SeaStar Books; (October 2002) ISBN: 1587171589

The slapstick sequel to Gus & Gertie and the Missing Pearl is now available in paperback! Gus and Gertie arrive at the Animals’ Winter Olympics with dreams of winning gold as Antarctica’s first synchronized swimming team. But first they find out that swimming isn’t even an event at the winter games, and then Gertie’s good-luck pin gets stolen-along with the other athletes’ lucky charms. Can readers find the clues hidden in Gus’s snapshots and help solve the crime?

Editorial Reviews

While the characters mimic human life, they retain some natural traits, from the prickly hedgehog official to the tiny information mouse. This story is fun and offers a challenge to sift through many details. deGroat's bright watercolor illustrations reflect the bustling winter scenes, with animals that convey lots of emotion as they mimic human activity, reinforcing the text with charm and pizzazz. Let Gus and Gertie join the ranks of Pinky and Rex and Cam Jansen as a bridge from easy-readers to chapter books. Laura Scott, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc..– School Library Journal

... the story moves along at just the right pace for readers making a transition to longer chapter books, and there's plenty of humor to match the suspense. The expressive, silly animal athletes in deGroat's color illustrations will help keep new readers engaged in this light but appealing offering that is just in time for the 2002 Olympics. Gillian Engberg Copyright American Library Association. All rights reserved. – Booklist

Good Night, Sleep Tight, Don’t Let The Bedbugs Bite

by Diane deGroat, Reading level: Ages 4-8. Hardcover: 32 pages; (May 2002) Publisher: Seastar Books;  ISBN: 1587171287

Gilbert's day camp is going on an overnight trip, and Gilbert expects nothing but fun. But when loudmouthed Lewis tells him about the Camp Hi-Dee-Ho ghost, he can't help but feel a little nervous. And when he has to go outside in the middle of the night, it looks like he may have to confront his fears face-to-face! Perfect for anyone who has every been afraid of the dark or who has dreaded that first night away from home, Diane deGroat's sixth book about Gilbert proves that we can be brave, even in the most unexpected places.

Editorial Reviews

DeGroat's latest clever caper starring Gilbert the opossum (Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink) finds the fellow on an overnight trip to Camp Hi-Dee-Ho. He stoically refuses to pack his teddy ("Sleep-away camp is for big kids") and puts up a brave front when big-mouth fellow camper Lewis trots out some typical camp-related taunts, announcing that a ghost haunts Hi-Dee-Ho and calling the lemonade "bug juice." Around the campfire, after an older kid relates the tale of the alleged ghost, Lewis sneaks up on Gilbert and scares him with a loud "BOO!" In the cabin after lights-out, the hero tightly hugs his teddy (which his mother has slipped into his sleeping bag). DeGroat suspense fully prolongs a nighttime trip to the outdoor bathroom along a dark path lined with threatening-looking trees and, in a signature twist, Gilbert gets a chance to give Lewis his comeuppance. Numerous droll particulars, including Gilbert's Martian-and-spaceship-patterned pajamas and the likable lad's hyperbolic facial expressions will keep readers coming back for more. Those anticipating with or without some anxiety an inaugural camp experience especially will revel in this realistic yet reassuring visit to Hi-Dee-Ho. Ages 5-8. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc. – Publishers Weekly

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annie Pitts, Swamp Monster

by Diane deGroat, Reading level: Ages 9-12  - 112 pages (April 2001) Seastar Pub Co. Kindle edition.

Annie Pitts puts her artichoke costume to good use once again when she lands the part of the swamp monster in a high school student's low-budget horror movie. Could this finally be her big break? But, as usual, things don't work out as planned for the spunky redheaded heroine when the outtakes end up as a submission for America's Funniest Halloween Bloopers!

Editorial Reviews

This entertaining sequel to Annie Pitts, Artichoke (1992) is sure to earn new fans for author-illustrator deGroat. The plot is wonderfully silly but believable, the dialogue is snappy and truly childlike, the black-and-white illustrations are delightful, and the short chapters will appeal to young readers. Third-grader Annie and her pesky classmate Matthew McGill have been cast as the title characters in Daughter of the Swamp Monster Meets Son of the Mummy, a very low-budget horror film written by Matthew's brother. Because Annie is positive her role will lead to a lucrative acting career, she puts everything on hold (including a biography report) while she researches her part and creates her costume and an attitude to match. The filming doesn't run quite the way she imagined, though, and the children's decision to "borrow" the videotape and present it as their assignment is a hilarious disaster. Chris Sherman – Booklist

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annie Pitts, Burger Kid

Diane deGroat, Reading level: Ages 9-12, Hardcover - 80 pages (October 2000) Seastar Pub Co. Kindle edition.

Annie Pitts, future actress extraordinaire, wants nothing more than to be chosen as the new Burger Barn poster kid, and she can't wait until the auditions on the day after Thanksgiving. Winning the contest would certainly impress her snooty cousin, Mercedes, and her pesky classmate, Matthew. But first she has to make it through a harrowing Thanksgiving dinner with both Matthew and Mercedes at the table! With her appetite for amusing antics, the irrepressible Annie Pitts has it her way in this deliciously enjoyable comedy.

 

Popular Favorites

Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink

Diane deGroat Reading level: Ages 4-8 Library Binding (February 1996) William Morrow & Co Reading level: Ages 4-8, ISBN: 0688136052

When Gilbert writes two not-so-nice valentines to his classmates, his prank quickly turns into pandemonium. But there's always time for a change of heart of Valentine's Day. This warm and funny book about a favorite holiday also provides a subtle message about forgiveness and being a good friend. Ages 5 up.

Editorial Reviews

The winning touch here is deGroat's characteristically buoyant watercolor art, which features an amiable crew of assorted animals, many festively clad in Valentine's Day -- appropriate reds and pinks. – Publishers Weekly

A sympathetic look at the small hurts in life and the importance of second chances. – Kirkus Reviews

There's often a little drizzle on much-anticipated holiday parades: this cozy and reassuring story understands that but knows that holidays and friendships are still worth celebrating. – Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Human foibles humorously yet accurately revealed are given practical, realistic non-didactic solutions. – School Library Journal

Gilbert, a chipmunkish critter, has to write valentine poems for each of his classmates because his teacher says that Valentine's Day is about liking each other. He enjoys writing the cards for his friends, but for two mean kids in his class, Lewis and Margaret, he writes the worst cards he can ("Roses are red, you wet your bed, I think that you have rocks in your head"). After the initial uproar, the hostility is finally turned around with good humor and with lots of nonsense and forgiveness. The rabbit, skunk, bear, and porcupine characters display droll, very human classroom behavior. Kids will enjoy all the rhymes, and they'll want to make up their own playful parodies, both mushy and mean. Hazel Rochman Copyright 1996, American Library Association. All rights reserved  – Booklist

On Valentine's Day, Gilbert gets even with a pair of troublesome classmates by writing mean-spirited messages on their cards. When he is ostracized, he makes amends by creating nicer cards in time for the Valentine's party. The light tone is matched by the amusing illustrations of Gilbert and his schoolmates, who are portrayed as anthropomorphized animals. -- Copyright 1996 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved. – Horn Book

Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet

Diane deGroat, Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover - 32 pages (September 1998) Morrow Junior; ISBN: 0688157661

Editorial Reviews

deGroat's Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink! (1996) is a funny classroom romp about Valentine's Day. The holiday this time is Halloween. Chipmunk Gilbert and his little sister, Lola, prepare their costumes. She's a ballerina, but she wants to be just like him, a space pilot. By mistake he takes the bag with her ballerina costume to school for the parade. He's appalled, but when he discovers that most of his classmates are space pilots, he makes the most of being different, and he twirls triumphantly in his pink tutu to the refreshment table. Of course, then Lulu wants her costume back. deGroat's funny watercolor pictures capture the various animal creatures' very human expressions and body language; and the parade of pig, owl, penguin, duck, rabbit, bear, etc., in outlandish garb captures the dressing-up farce of the holiday. Hazel Rochman, Copyright 1998, American Library Association. All rights reserved – Booklist

Gilbert's good-natured blunderings make for a kid-appealing Halloween treat. -- Copyright 1998 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved. – Horn Book

Jingle Bells, Homework Smells

Diane deGroat Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover - 32 pages (October 2000) HarperCollins Juvenile Books; ISBN: 0688175430

It's almost Christmas, and Gilbert finds it hard to pay attention in school. When Mrs. Byrd gives the class homework for the weekend, Gilbert just can't seem to find the time to do it. After all, this is a busy season. He has to help his mother and sister bake Christmas cookies. He also has to make time to go ice-skating with his friends. And the tree has to be decorated too!

Editorial Reviews

...Gilbert's dilemma is a common one and most readers will appreciate his last-minute attempt to appease his teacher... – School Library Journal

Happy Birthday to You, You Belong in a Zoo

Diane deGroat, author and illustrator, Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover - 32 pages (August 1999) Morrow Junior; ISBN: 0688165443

Gilbert can't believe that Lewis, the class meanie, has invited him to his birthday party. Could they be friends after all? When Lewis proves to be just as rotten as ever, Gilbert plots to give Lewis a present he really deserves-but an even bigger surprise is in store for Gilbert! This follow-up to the first two hits starring everyone's favorite opossum addresses issues of friendship and generosity with deGroat's renowned honesty and child-pleasing humor.

Editorial Reviews

Gilbert, a young possum, is invited to a birthday party. That would normally be good news, but the party is for Lewis, a tough kid at school who isn't very nice to Gilbert. Shopping with his mother, Gilbert realizes he doesn't want to get anything nice for Lewis, so he tells his mother to purchase a frying pan as a gift. At the party, Gilbert has fun and feels guilty about giving Lewis a substandard present. However, when Lewis opens Gilbert's present, it's a cool Martian spaceship with flashing lights and rocket noises. Mom has saved the day, subtly teaching Gilbert a lesson about being sensitive and kind. Both story and watercolor pictures excel at capturing the anguish that children often feel as they try to learn the social game. Gilbert can also be seen in Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet (1998) and Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink (1996). Kathy Broderick Copyright 1999, American Library Association. All rights reserved. – Booklist

We Gather Together...Now Please Get Lost!

Diane deGroat Reading level: Ages 4-8  - 32 pages (August 2001) Seastar Books; Hardcover ISBN: 1587170957

Editorial Reviews

It's Thanksgiving time in this fifth book featuring Gilbert, the hapless porcupine. He's excited about his class visit to Pilgrim Town, but on the day of the field trip, he gets up late and he has to partner with the only kid left--goony Philip. Pilgrim Town is a neat place, but Gilbert spends most of his time trying to ditch Philip, who is a tattletale as well as a nerd ("I'm telling Mrs. Byrd that you called me a tattle-tale"). Gilbert hides out in the bathroom, only to get locked in. Will the partner he's been avoiding all day try to find him? As in Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink (1996) and the other books about Gilbert and his multispecies class, deGroat captures the ups and downs of school life. Much of the humor in the art comes from the kids; gangly Philip, a goose-boy, dressed like an adult in a trench coat, is a case in point. At the end, Philip does go searching for Gilbert and saves the day. The last scene, in which the classmates, dressed as pilgrims, enjoy a thankful lunch, will resonate with children. Ilene Cooper Copyright American Library Association. All rights reserved. – Booklist

...this low-key story captures the emotions and behavior of early elementary students. deGroat's watercolor illustrations add charm and humor to the straightforward text. The home and school environments are cozy and familiar, while details of the park scenes offer potential topics for further discussion. Teachers and librarians in search of a fun read-aloud for Thanksgiving (a rare bird indeed) will welcome this title. Lisa Dennis, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc. – School Library Journal

Pots and Pans

Patricia Hubbell, Diane deGroat (Illustrator), Reading level: Baby-Preschool Paperback - 24 pages (June 1998) HarperCollins Juvenile Books; ISBN: 0694010723

Editorial Reviews

This boisterous picture book, a kindred spirit to Eve Merriam's Bam Bam Bam (1995), is a rollicking salute to the utter chaos created by a curious tot let loose in the kitchen. Skillfully epitomizing the boundless inquisitiveness of toddlers, Hubbell describes the exuberant explorations of one mischievous child. Bouncy rhymes crescendo with the growing excitement of a baby as it experiments with different objects: hitting, slamming, and banging them together, creating a cacophony of sound. Children will enjoy “reading'' the sound effects, set in a bold typeface that stands out from the rest of the text. DeGroat's colorful illustrations humorously depict the antics of a cat, a dog, and a baby as they revel in this lively impromptu performance. (Board book. 1-3) -- Copyright 1998, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. – Kirkus Reviews

Gus & Gertie and the Missing Pearl

Joan Lowery Nixon, Diane deGroat (Illustrator), Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover - 48 pages (September 2000) Seastar Pub Co  ISBN: 1587170221

When Gus and Gertie arrive on Holiday Island, they find a haven of seagoing scallywags, riffraff, and ruffians. It isn't long before Gertie's precious deep-sea pearl is stolen--but who's to blame? The culprit is revealed by clues cleverly hidden in Gus's hastily taken snapshots. Can readers crack the case before it's too late? Joan Lowery Nixon's mysterious high jinks and Diane deGroat's rowdy cast of characters create a fast-paced whodunit for newly independent readers.

Featured in "The Original Art" show at the Society of Illustrators

A Turkey for Thanksgiving

by Diane deGroat (Illustrator), Eve Bunting (Author) Paperback: 32 pages Publisher: Clarion Books; (September 1995) ISBN: 0395742129  School & Library Binding: (September 1991) ISBN: 0899197930

Mr. and Mrs. Moose invite all their animal friends for Thanksgiving dinner and the only one missing is Turkey. When they set out to find him, Turkey is quaking with fear because he doesn't realize that his hosts want him at their table, not on it.

Editorial Reviews

Mrs. Moose's suggestion to Mr. Moose that they have a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner ends in a surprising twist, in a humorous and cheerful tale captured in warm watercolors full of the hues of autumn. Reprint. AB. SLJ. PW. – School Library Journal

Little Rabbit's Loose Tooth

by Lucy Bate, Diane deGroat (Illustrator) Paperback: Publisher: Crown Pub; Reissue edition (December 1988) ISBN: 0517551225   Library Binding: Publisher: Bt Bound; (October 1999) ISBN: 0881031321

When Little Rabbit's loose tooth finally comes out, she isn't convinced that the tooth fairy will really come.

Editorial Reviews

Delightfully familiar family dialogue surrounds the momentous loss of a first tooth by a rabbit girl. Large-scale three-color drawings depict the same warm, homey details lodged in the text and clinch the book's sure appeal. – Booklist

Other Books

Armadillos Sleep in Dugouts : And Other Places Animals Live

by Pam Munoz Ryan, Diane deGroat (Illustrator), ISBN: 078680274X

Anna on the Farm

Downing Hahn author, Diane deGroat Illustrator 2001 Clarion

All About Sam

Lois Lowry, author, Diane deGroat Illustrator, 1998 Houghton Mifflin

Zooman Sam

Lois Lowry author, Diane deGroat Illustrator, 2000, Houghton Mifflin

Hurricane Elaine

Johanna Hurwitz author, Diane deGroat Illustrator, 1986 Morrow

See You Around Sam

Lois Lowry, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1996, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN 0395816645

How I Saved Hanukkah

Amy Goldman Koss, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1998 Dial ISBN= 0803722419

Kinderkittens/ Who Took the Cookie from the Cookie Jar?

Stephanie Calmenson, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1996 Scholastic, ISBN= 059046350

A Pinky Is a Baby Mouse and Other Baby Animal Names

by Pam Munoz Ryan, Diane deGroat (Illustrator),  1997 Disney Press, ISBN: 0786802405

Fruit flies, Fish and Fortune Cookies

Anne LeMieux, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator 1994, Tambourine, ISBN=0688132995

Kinder kittens/ Show and Tell

Stephanie Calmenson, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1996 Scholastic, ISBN 0590463497

Sunshine Home

Eve Bunting, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1994, Clarion, ISBN 0395633095

The Great Brain is Back!

John D. Fitzgerald, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1997, Dial, ISBN 0803713460

It Goes Eeeeeeeeee!

Jaime Gilson, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1994, Clarion, ISBN 0395670632

Anna All Year Round

Mary Downing Hahn, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, Clarion Books ISBN: 0395869757

Bug in a Rug

Jamie Gilson, Diane deGroat (Illustrator),  (April 1998) Clarion Books; ISBN: 0395866162

Dr. Ruth Talks to Kids

Dr. Ruth Westheimer, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1993, Macmillan, ISBN[ 0027925323

Our Teacher's Having a Baby

Eve Bunting, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1992, Clarion, ISBN 0395604702

Never Trust a Sister Over Twelve

Stephen Roos, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1993, Delacorte, ISBN 038531048X

Animal Fact/ Animal Fable

Seymour Simon, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1979, Crown, ISBN 051753794X

Atta Boy Sam

Lois Lowry, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1992, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN 0395615887

The Great Summer Camp Catastrophe

Jean Van Leeuwen, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1992, Dial, ISBN 0803711077

Itchy Richard

Jaime Gilson, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1991, Clarion, ISBN 0395592828

Aldo Peanut Butter

Johanna Hurwitz, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1990, Morrow, ISBN 0688097410

The Flunking of Joshua T. Bates

Susan Shreve, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1984, Clarion, ISBN 394863801

DeDe Takes Charge

Johanna Hurwitz, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1984, Morrow, ISBN 0688038530

Tough Luck Karen

Johanna Hurwitz, author, Diane deGroat, illustrator, 1982, Morrow, ISBN 0688014852

 

A complete list is available — please request from the author.

 

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