Paul, here - Peter's twin brother. Peter's always busy, but I keep track of his goings on and thought it would be nice to share with you. Read on to see what Peter has been up to! Cheers, |
 |
As of March 26, 2008
WBZ-TV Viewers Get to Know Peter H. Reynolds
As part of WBZ-TVs news series Know Who's Who With Lisa Hughes, Peter H. Reynolds was featured by Lisa Hughes as a person in our community "worth knowing". "Local author, artist and businessman Peter Reynolds continues to inspire students and encourage them to follow their 'North Star,' which means to pursue what they love," reports Hughes, "... he gets us thinking about where we are going, and how we can make the journey better for others." Click here to watch the interview.
As of March 11, 2008
Less TV - More Drawing, Reading, Running, Singing, Family, Kite Flying...
Turn Off Your TV Week is April 21-27, and to help inspire kids during that week, Peter H. Reynolds created a special "Turn Off Your TV Week" coloring sheet/poster. It's a great way to kick off the week, and gives kids just one of many things to do instead of watching TV. Peter wishes kids of all ages a very fun, creative and inspired week - and he hopes it will encourage people to continue turning off their TVs, long after April 27th passes! Click here for a PDF of Peter's "Turn Off Your TV Week" coloring sheet/poster.
As of March 4, 2008
Peter H. Reynolds Gives Time and Inspiration to Wednesday's Child
WBZ-TV’s Jack Williams visited The Blue Bunny in Dedham Square to film this week’s segment of Wednesday’s Child. Sixth-grader, Cheyenne met with author and illustrator, Peter H. Reynolds, who gave her an animation lesson and a personalized journal.
Wednesday’s Child feature is designed to help find homes for children waiting to be adopted.
As of February 4, 2008
From Peter H. Reynolds - A Postscript for Patriots Fans: Keep Believing!
As a Boston-based author/illustrator, Peter can't help but cheer for the New England Patriots. Naturally,he was disappointed on February 3, when the New York Giants beat the Pats in Super Bowl XLII. Peter extends our congratulations to the Giants and their supporters. For Pats sympathizers, Peter offers an original poster he designed. Keep believing, and get your Red Sox cap ready--baseball season approaches! Click here to download the poster PDF.
As of January 25, 2008
Mass Gov Deval Patrick and Peter H. Reynolds Collaborate on Youth Civic Engagement
Peter H. Reynolds and Deval Patrick, the Governor of Massachusetts, share a common belief: Civic engagement is one of the cornerstones of school success.
Recently, Governor Patrick offered the annual "State of the Commonwealth" address to the citizens of Massachusetts. On the day after his speech, the Governor visited the Greenlodge School in Peter's hometown of Dedham, Massachusetts. At the request of State Representative Paul McMurtry, Peter joined the Governor in helping promote the state's education plan with a particular focus on taking action. In his remarks, Governor Patrick talked about the need to educate the whole child, and specifically, how the Massachusetts Readiness Project will meet that need. Knowing that he and the Governor share a similar educational philosophy, Peter created a Civic Engagement poster, which the Governor gladly signed and Peter donated to the Greenlodge School.
Click here to find a PDF of the "Shaping the Course" poster that you can download the print!
As of November 16, 2007
The Boston Globe Spotlights Peter H. Reynolds
The Boston Globe recently featured a stellar article about Peter and his company, FableVision. Click here for a PDF of the print article!
As of November 7, 2007
Peter H. Reynolds' Book The Dot Receives La-Belle Prize For Empowering Females
Author/illustrator and FableVision co-founder Peter H. Reynolds has been awarded the Lab-elle Prize for his book, The Dot. Given by the Lab-elle Association in partnership with the University of Geneva, the Lab-elle Prize honors authors and literary works that portray women and girls in non-traditional, empowering roles.
The Dot tells of Vashti, a young student who has convinced herself that she cannot draw. Her teacher dares her to make a mark, and Vashti's one small dot begins a colorful journey. At the end of the story, she shares her knowledge with classmate Ramon and encourages him to make his mark.
In his letter of acceptance, Peter wrote: "The Dot is more than a book about art. It is a book that encourages us to be brave about expressing ourselves." This is the same courage that we need as learners - inside the classroom and out.
As of October 24, 2007
ReadBoston’s Early Words Campaign Kickoff
ReadBoston's Early Words Campaign kicked off at Boston’s South End Settlements with CBS Host Lisa Hughes, the Mayor of Boston ~ Tom Menino, Peter H. Reynolds, and Chairman and CEO of Staples, Ron Sargent. Staples is a partner and corporate sponsor of Early Words.
The Early Words program provides training and seminars that teach parents the importance of talking to young children and how to increase the level of talking during everyday activities.
With the assistance of several volunteers, Peter read The Dot to over 200 early learners and teachers in the audience. Peter was also assisted by two four-year-olds who did a great job representing Vashti and Ramon. As Peter left the South End Settlements, the program director asked Peter to “Make His Mark” and he drew a beautiful mural on the wall outside some of the pre-school classrooms.
As of October 12, 2007
Rhode Island Children’s Book Award, presented to Peter H. Reynolds
"Charlestown School was the site of the presentation of the Rhode Island Children’s Book Award, presented to Peter H. Reynolds, illustrator of the 2007 winning book by Megan McDonald: Stink, the Incredible Shrinking Kid. The staff and students worked very hard to make this special event a huge success. The backdrop for the stage was created by students from Mrs. Moskosky’s and Mrs. Safford’s first grade classes, and put together by Mrs. Reiser-Jones and Mrs. Rich. Third grader Sergio Valdivia created the picture of “Stink” for the backdrop.
"Under the guidance of fourth grade teacher Ms. Miceli, Chevy Ready, Suzanne Healy, Hunter Clark, Samantha Johnson, Elizabeth Vazquez, Noel Russo, Katherine Caparco, and Dakota Morehouse presented a Readers’ Theater scene from the book. Entertainment also included book reviews by Elizabeth Vazquez and Corey Merritt, a song by the fourth grade chorus group, and a movement activity by Mrs. Rhodes’ first grade class. The mistress of ceremonies for the event was Karli Nelson, and Alexandra Huzyk presented the award to Mr. Reynolds.
"We would like to give special thanks to Rhode Island Children’s Book Award Committee Chairperson Brooke Strachan, the Charlestown Parent-Teacher Organization for the wonderful reception following the award ceremony, and to Charlestown School staff members: Mrs. Reiser-Jones, library/media specialist, Mrs. Fiske, physical education teacher, Mrs. Sherman, music teacher, and Mrs. Rich, art teacher. This was truly a multi-disciplinary and school-wide effort!"Donna Fitts, Principal
Charlestown School
As of September 30, 2007
Peter H. Reynolds Receives Literary Lights for Children Award
As one of four authors honored by the Associates of the Boston Public Library, Peter received the Literary Lights for Children Award during its ninth annual tea party at the beautiful Copley Fairmont Hotel in Boston. Literary Lights for Children seeks to raise awareness of children's literature, promote literacy, honor children's authors and raise money for the Boston Public Library's children's services and collections. Proceeds from this event will specifically fund conservation and restoration of the library's Alice B. Jordan collection.
During the event Peter spoke about his mission to make the world a better place through his art, his words, and involvement in his community. He also invited its 500 participants to draw with him, and had the opportunity to meet children from all of the Boston Public Branch Libraries as well as The Epiphany School, Beacon Academy, Josiah Quincy Upper School, Mother Caroline, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston.
And Peter is in excellent company! Previous award recipients include Marc Brown, Matt Tavares, William Steig, Mary Pope Osborne, Eric Carle, Lois Lowry and David Macaulay.
As of September 22, 2007
Peter H. Reynolds Visits Florida School for Deaf & Blind
Author and Illustrator Peter H. Reynolds opened the 5th Annual Florida School for the Deaf and Blind Writing Expo in St. Augustine, Florida where he was welcomed by the incredibly talented staff and 750 amazing K-12 students.
While all of Peter's trips are special, this one had particular significance. Peter's unique abilities to connect and communicate with children were stretched in new and meaningful ways. "These amazing children challenged me as a storyteller to rethink how people who can't see or hear experience a story," said Peter. The culmination of two wonderfully full days of meeting, drawing and sharing with teachers and students was the students' "choral reading" of The Dot. "Truthfully, they taught me more that I taught them," Peter remarked.
The second edition of The Dot, published in Braille, is now available from our good friend, Bruce Curtis, at BrailleInk: http://www.brailleink.org/dot.php. This new edition has a sturdier binding and is not as big or heavy as the first one.
As of July 17, 2007
Community of Caring
Peter was the featured speaker at July's Community of Caring National K-12 Character Education Conference in Las Vegas. Peter and his company, FableVision, support the Community of Caring's mission to strengthen five core values: caring, respect, responsibility, trust and family. In the words of its founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, "In Community of Caring, we believe the quality of caring we give to our parents, to our brothers and sisters, to our families, to our friends and neighbors, and to the poor and the powerless endows a life, a community with respect, hope and happiness."
As of July 17, 2007
Gift Gallery Anniversary Special - 20% off all items!
To celebrate the 4-year anniversary of the Peter H. Reynolds website, we're offering a limited Gift Gallery Special... 20% off all items in the Peter H. Reynolds Gift Gallery! This offer ends September 30, 2007.
If you've been tempted in the past, this is the time to carpe diem!
As of June 24, 2007
Peter H. Reynolds teams up with Mayor Menino for ReadBoston
While Boston Mayor Thomas Menino read Peter's book The Dot aloud, Peter drew and animated his story to the hundreds of school children gathered in the Boston Common's Tadpole Pond on June 22nd for ReadBoston's Storymobile kickoff event. Participants were sporting the new Storymobile T-shirts that Peter designed for the event, and each child was presented with a copy of The Dot to enjoy at home, compliments of Staples. For the past decade, ReadBoston, founded by Mayor Menino and his wife Angela, has been working to ensure all children in Boston are reading at grade level by the end of third grade. For more information on ReadBoston and the Staples Literacy Program, see www.readboston.org/.
As of May 22, 2007
Peter
Delivers Commencements, Receives L.H.D.
Encourages Graduates to Be Brave Enough to Follow
Their Dreams
Peter H. Reynolds made a trip in the way-back machine to his alma mater of Fitchburg State College (FSC) to deliver the commencement address and to receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree (pictured here with FSC President Bob Antonucci). Peter presented the address to graduates of Fitchburg State College's 111th commencement ceremony on May 19th, and was awarded the title Litterarum Humanarum Doctor (L.H.D) because of his substantial contributions to education and the arts. Since graduating from FSC with a bachelor's degree in communications media in 1983, Peter received a Distinguished Alumni Award in 1999 from the college.
As a vocal advocate of public schools and the state education system, Peter spoke to over two thousand Fitchburg State graduates, family, friends and members of the college community. He also spoke at the annual Chelmsford High School commencement, his first alma mater. His wish for every graduate is to "make your mark and see where it takes you."
As of April 10, 2007
Peter H. Reynolds' New Book, Someday - #1 New York Times Best Selling Book
Very exciting news to share! Peter's new book Someday (illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds, written by author Alison McGhee) is a New York Times #1 Best Seller Children's book! Someday is a "storybook for all ages" that celebrates the potential we see in our children and the yearning for them to live life to its fullest. To get your personalized and autographed copy of the book, hop over to The Blue Bunny at www.dedhambluebunny.com - the Reynolds family bookstore.
FableVision has created a free SOMEDAY eCard especially for Mother's Day!
Click and send your Mother's Day Message here...
As of March 17, 2007
New
Megan McDonald/Peter H. Reynolds Book Released
Stink and the World's Worst Super-Stinky Sneakers, the third book in the Judy Moody spin-off series about Judy's little brother Stink, was released last month. In this book, Stink's amazing sense of smell makes him seem like a "Nose-it-all", but then something unexpected happens... Yep, you'll have to read the book to find out!
Peter's illustration collaborations with author Megan McDonald on the Judy Moody and Stink chapter books have reached millions of children around the world. Stay tuned to find out what's coming next in the RARE world of Judy and Stink Moody!
As of February 28, 2007
Making Our Mark! - The Big Dot Event
On Februrary 26, Peter H. Reynolds joined officials from Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick's administration at the Massachusetts State House- along with friends from Harvard University, Citizen Schools and the Dan Marr Boys & Girls Club - to talk to middle school students about being brave & creative enough to "make their mark" - as students helped paint the world's biggest kid-created dot! This was part of a nationwide initiative called Entrepreneurship Week USA sponsored by the Kauffman Foundation.
As of December 13, 2006
In the Literary Limelight
Peter appeared on the Literary Limelight show on Boston Neighborhood Network TV from 4 to 5:30 pm on December 13th.. Peter was interviewed by Augusta Alban, the host of Literary Limelight, who focused on Peter's book So Few of Me, a perfect book for the busy holiday season. This show was aired live and rebroadcast several times in Boston, Cambridge, and Wellesley.
Artful Fundraiser - DOT Art to Support Visually Impaired Children
Join Peter H. Reynolds in helping children “make their mark” through this special fundraising event! Just in time for the holidays ... Purchase an original Peter H. Reynolds watercolor painting for just $20 (plus shipping) and help a worthy cause!
Peter has created a limited number of original, multi- colored, water-colored dots inspired by his book, The Dot, which are being sold on a first-come, first- served basis. Each water-colored dot is signed, dated, and placed in a preservation sleeve with card backing. 100% of the funds raised will go toward the cost of printing of the unique braille edition of The Dot from BrailleInk. - a non-profit organization promoting braille accessibility and education for both visually impaired and sighted individuals.
To learn more or purchase a PHR exclusive original, click here...
As of November 14, 2006
Peter H. Reynolds Podcast from Children's Book Week Celebration
Candlewick Press (publisher of The Dot, Ish, and So Few of Me) and First Book celebrated Children's Book Week with author and illustrator podcasts - including our very own Peter H. Reynolds! First Book is an international nonprofit organization with a single mission: to give children from low-income families the opportunity to read and own their first new books. Check out the Peter H. Reynolds interview [38:05] at
ss!http://blog.firstbook.org/category/podcast/ (Just scroll down the page a bit.)
As of October 20, 2006
Why Celebrate Art for Only One Week?
We recently celebrated Start the Art Week sponsored by the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) in conjunction with Americans for the Arts as part of National Arts & Humanities month.
But we asked, "Is a week-long celebration enough to ensure that the spirit of creativity is protected and nurtured in our schools?" I created a poster (right) that plays out the idea of a "LIFE-LONG celebration". If we want students to express what they know, then we need to INCREASE the bandwidth of their creative expression - in ways that are congruent with their unique talents, gifts and styles. To nurture a new generation of creative, problem-solvers - who will take on the challenges our planet faces - this needs OUR best, most creative thinking all year long.Click here for the "Start the Art" Year-Long Celebration Mini-Poster...
As of October 3, 2006
Watch Peter H. Reynolds on YouTube.com!
We're happy to share a great video clip of Peter at the Park City Literary Festival is now on youtube.com. This is the literary adjunct festival to the Sundance Film Festival, where Peter met with lots of teachers and educators and helped inspire them to "make their mark!"
Special thanks to PCTV's Producer Ori Hoffer, who just told us he named his new daughter ISH, short for ILANA SAGE HOFFER. Congrats Ari!
As of September 25, 2006
New Book From Peter H. Reynolds Now Available: So Few of Me
Peter H. Reynolds is celebrating his latest book release - So Few of Me! USA TODAY's Bob Minzesheimer gave So Few of Me a great spotlight last week: "Leo is a busy boy with a to-do list that stretches across two pages in the latest modern fable from the creator of The Dot and Ish. Leo is so busy that he wishes there were "two of me." He gets his wish; but with even more things to do, Leo keeps multiplying until there are 10 Leos, "each one busier than the next." Reynolds' simple watercolors complement his sweetly subversive message: "Leo wondered, 'What if I did less — but did my BEST? Then one Leo is all I need. Just me, just one ... with time to dream." Left unanswered for overachieving parents: How will Leo, with that attitude, ever get into Harvard or Stanford?"
Along with being a great gift for overscheduled families/children, So Few of Me is also a perfect gift for educators and a great addition to professional development programs!
As of September 18, 2006
A Collaboration Celebration: Peter shares the stage with Megan McDonald in Boston
This month has been rather unique for Peter. While he is used to being on stage, this month he has shared the stage with favorite collaborators. One example was at the Boston Globe Book Festival, when children had the rare opportunity to see Peter with Megan McDonald, author of the Judy Moody series, which Peter illustrates. Megan and Peter explained to the children who were enjoying a sunny Boston afternoon outside the Public Library how they collaborate while living 3,000 miles away from each other.
As of August 28, 2006
Peter H. Reynolds Featured at Boston's Gardner Museum Neighborhood Nights
At Waltham Partnership for Youth's annual breakfast Peter H. Reynolds captivated the audience with a moving presentation featuring his book The Dot. Peter applauded the group's efforts to find creative ways to inspire kids to navigate their full potential - no matter what the odds.
As Peter notes, "It takes a brave heart to lead the life we are meant to live - and that message can never be echoed enough. That's why organizations like this are so important - to help keep amplifying these themes in a distracted and noisy world we live in today."
The Waltham Partnership for Youth purchased a copy of The Dot for each of its 25 board members who will read the book to several elementary classes in all seven of Waltham’s elementary schools at the beginning of the school year.
As of August 23, 2006
New
Giclee Print added to the Gift Gallery
We just added a NEW Peter H. Reynolds Giclee print to his Gift Gallery - A Prince Among Monsters! The print comes in three sizes, including a very affordable 7" x 10" for $35. A perfect piece for any child's room, or for any Peter H. Reynolds fan, or collector of art. Peter's Giclee prints are of museum quality - it's extremely hard to tell them apart from the original watercolors! Prints will arrive hand numbered and signed.
As of August 16, 2006
New Addition to the Peter H. Reynolds.com website - Photo Album!
For a cool snapshot at Peter's journey as an author/illustrator, check out his new Photo Album page, full of photos contributed by friends, fans, colleagues, and other folks Peter has met along the way. For future reference, the photo album is linked to the "Meet Peter" page. Keep checking the album - we hope to keep adding photos as they continue to trickle in!
As of August 15, 2006
Peter H. Reynolds Featured at Boston's Gardner Museum Neighborhood Nights
Peter was recently the featured storyteller at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Feel The Vibes’ Neighborhood Nights. The museum opened its doors to all of its neighborhood families and friends to provide a lively evening of activity, music and creativity. Peter read from his best-selling book, The Dot, demonstrated art of animation, and answered questions on how his stories make the journey from imagination to publication. Peter then shared his most favorite book... the blank book. And as they each recieved their own blank book, inspiration filled the museum gardens as they happily wrote and illustrated their very own stories. Somewhere, Isabella Stewart Gardner was smiling.
As of June 4, 2006
Peter H. Reynolds' Artwork on WGBH-TV Tonight
Just a quick note to let you know to watch out for Peter’s art donation for The WGBH Fine Arts Auction. The live auction kicked off today at 3:30pm on local (Boston) PBS station WGBH 2 – and Peter’s piece is number 187, which will be shown sometime this evening.
The original watercolor called "My Gallery” depicts a child proudly displaying a piece of art – standing in front of a gallery of original dot paintings. Peter will customize the scene, a nod to his award-winning book THE DOT, (which has been adapted as a film and is in over 20 languages!) with the winning bidder’s name(s)! And if that’s not fun enough, Peter also donated an accompanying blank sketch book (hand-decorated by Peter) titled "A Blank Book Is All About Possibilities." The blank book and picture are signed and dated.
Tune in – and help bid this item up! The proceeds of the WGBH Fine Arts Auction go to support children’s programming on GBH, which makes us very happy!
As of May 29, 2006
Ish Named "Video of the Week" by School Library Journal
We were thrilled to get the news that School Library Journal selected the ISH animated film as "Video of the Week". Along with a lovely review, SLJ notes, "Libraries will want to purchase this delightful offering to support the artcurriculum." Click here to read the full review (.PDF).
A co-production between FableVision and Scholastic Weston Woods, this short animated film is based on the book by Peter H. Reynolds.
As of May 29, 2006
New Megan McDonald/Peter H. Reynolds Collaboration Launched
Stink and the Incredible Super-Galactic Jawbreaker
by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. ReynoldsJudy Moody's little brother Stink has his second book out, and it's as fun as the first. We had a super-galactic blast this past Saturday, May 13th, at the Blue Bunny Bookstore Book Bash in Dedham, MA, were we celebrated the unveiling of Stink's second book. If you missed the event, don't worry - you can always stop by the Blue Bunny for signed copies of Peter's books. Oh, and FYI - the first Stink book is now available in paperback too!
As of May 1, 2006
Ishful
Thinking - now archived!
We’re happy to announce that past issues of Peter’s very own eNewsletter, Ishful Thinking, are now archived here on his site for easy access, in case you miss or misplace an issue – or simply don’t want old issues clogging up your IN box. You can now find a link to the archived issues on the Contact page, or Click on the image to the right to view archived copies of past issues.
Peter H. Reynolds tapped on the shoulder by the Children's Book Council
Author/illustrator Peter H. Reynolds has been invited to create one of three official streamers for the 2007 Children’s Book Week sponsored by the Children’s Book Council, Inc. (CBC)! The event has been celebrated by educators, librarians, booksellers, and families since 1919. The theme for 2007 is “Rise Up Reading!” Click here to learn more about the Children's Book Council, or Children's Book Week.
April 1, 2006
Peter H. Reynolds Goes to Childhood Hometown for Author Visit
Peter was excited to return to his town of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, to help celebrate its 19th Annual Community Read In this year during the week of March 6 - 10. The event showcased local and greater area volunteers who came to the Chelmsford elementary and middle schools to share their love of reading.
Peter, former Chelmsford resident, proved that "you CAN go home again" - as he joined the fun sharing his books, his art and his animated films with students at the Center School. While most visitors read books written by other authors, Peter read his own books, The DOT, Ish, and The North Star to the second and third grade children.
Just out! Braille edition! The Dot Printed in Dots!
Visit BrailleInk.org for more information...
It's been very inspiring for me to see my books and their messages reaching so many children across the country, and around the world, regardless of age, border, or barrier. Besides the many world languages The Dot and Ish have now been published in, I'm excited to announce that The Dot is now available in Braille as well!
As of March 21, 2006
Bringing Hope and Inspiration to Katrina and Rita Victims
Peter and the FableVision Team recently journeyed to the Gulf Coast where Peter was asked to keynote the Louisiana Computer Using Educators Conference. We were honored they chose Peter - who brought his messages of hope, creativity and following one's dreams in the face of adversity. During FableVision's trip to Louisiana, we also visited Renaissance Village, a FEMA site for hurricane evacuees.
Click here to read a first-hand account on some ways the educators at Renaissance Village are handling the education and inspiration for their kids under duress, and how a visit from Peter H. Reynolds brought a spark of hope.
Meaningful Gifts...
A lot of people ask Peter what he does when he's not writing and illustrating books, animating, meeting with businesses and organziations, or speaking at conferences and schools. Well, much of Peter's spare time is spent giving back to the community... supporting schools, homeless children, literacy and learning, and inspiring all of us to use our gifts to make the journey a meaningful one. In the last few months he has donated his time, talent, and art to the following organizations: Dedham Country Day School, WGBH/PBS Fine Arts Auction, St. Peter’s School in Lincoln Nebraska, MESPA – Massachusetts Elementary Principals’ Association, Fall River (MA) Film and Literary Festival, and the MSPCC – Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children to name a few. Peter is a big believer in community service, and encourages people of all ages to reach out and volunteer a little time to help make the world a better place. He says it's a great way to share your talents too!
As of March 15, 2006
Webcasts, Sessions, and Conferences... Oh My!
The road tour continues! We just wrapped up a great trip to California Computer Using Educators (CUE) in chilly Palm Springs (really!). Highlights included some fantastic sessions by Peter, and also a webcast on Ed Tech Trends (courtesy of www.kidzonline.org and CUE) featuring top industry leaders Hall Davidson (Discovery Kids), David Thornburg (Thornburg Institute) and Peter H. Reynolds (FableVision).
As of March 5, 2006
Inspiration Expo Brings School & Community Together
Peter H. Reynolds was invited to Currey Ingram Academy in Brentwood, Tennessee to meet with students and help open its inaugural Inspiration Expo: A Celebration of Creativity and Imagination. Currey Ingram Academy is a K-12 independent day school for children with learning differences, providing an environment rich in opportunities for students who have unique learning styles - which reflects the Peter's mission to reach ALL learners in creative ways.
To read one student's reflections about Peter's visits, click here..
As of February 23, 2006
Spring Professional Development Session Announced
Register for the May 10, 2006 "Make Your Mark!" Workshop and join author/illustrator Peter H. Reynolds (The Dot, Ish, The North Star, My Very Big Little World) for an inspirational day-long retreat. Peter uses storytelling, videos, technology, and his many tried-and-true reflective activities that recharge the spirit. Spend a day with us, get recharged - and bring back practical, ready-to-roll ideas to your classroom.
We are also taking registrations for the October 4, 2006 "Make Your Mark!" Workshop in Boston, Massachusetts. Group rates available for early registrants. These are the only local MYM workshops that Peter will be giving this year, so sign now while spots are still open!
As of February 15, 2006
Visits by Peter H. Reynolds...Now a Virtual Reality
During the past year, hundreds of organizations have contacted Peter H. Reynolds regarding a personal author/illustrator visit. We only wish there were enough hours and days for Peter to accept each and every invitation. But here's the good news...
After the resounding success of using web-based Elluminate Live to visit 2000 students in Pennsylvania, Peter's company, FableVision, has officially launched our FableVision Virtual Visit Program! Peter can now deliver his message, his stories and his incredible art to your school site or any place with an Internet connection.
If you'd like to learn more about signing up for one of Peter's Virtual Classroom Visits, click here...
As of February 1, 2006
"Make Your Mark"... in Mexico
Peter is off to Mexico to say "gracias" to the Ministry of Education's
adoption of his books The Dot and Ish. 80,000 copies of each Spanish edition title were purchased for elementary school children there.
As of Janurary 23, 2006
The North Star Musical Shines at Mill Mountain Theater
Peter and I just flew back from Roanoke, VA. - aka "The Star City" (really!) - where a new musical stage adaptation of Peter's book THE NORTH STAR is premiering. Based on the musical performance version by Tim Beckman, the new production was brought to stage by Director Mary Best Bova as part of Mill Mountain Theatre's 2006 Norfolk Southern Festival of New Works. (Tim, Mary & Peter pictured in photo to right, on stage at Mill Mountain.)
As of January 15, 2006
THE DOT Animated Film "Makes Its Mark!"
The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), recently acknowledged our company, FableVision, as a co-recipient of the 2005 Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Children's Video for THE DOT. The animated film is based on the book THE DOT by Peter H. Reynolds.
FableVision now happily shares the Carnegie honors with co-producer Scholastic Weston Woods. Medals will be given to all individuals involved in the project, including Peter H. Reynolds, Karen Bresnahan, Gary Goldberger, and Jonathan Meath , along with Paul Gagne and Melissa Reilly of Weston Woods.
As of December 31, 2005
Peter Launches "Ishful Thinking" eNewsletter
Join the "Ishful Thinking" Mailing List
NOTE: In order to follow federal online safety rules (COPPA), children under the age of 13 will not be added to the mailing list.
As of November 11, 2005
Special Message from Peter: A great cause - Robert's Snow
A quick message to let you know that I am incredibly honored to have been tapped on the shoulder for a terrrrrrrrrrrrrific cause. I am urging you to get involved!
Robert's Snow 2005 http://www.robertssnow.com
This is a wonderful chance to own an original piece of art – a hand-painted, wooden snowflake -- from a collection of work from over 200 children’s book illustrators -- including one by yours truly -- (actually I have two snowflakes – one on display in Boston and one in LA). Not only are these snowflakes exclusive (each one comes with its own certificate of authenticity) and beautiful – but 100% of snowflakes sales will go to the
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/The Jimmy Fund!
Here’s one of my snowflakes!
(There is another image on the reverse side which you can see on the robertssnow.com site.)
The 200 snowflakes are divided into 5 seven day auctions. The schedule is as follows:
Auction 1: Nov. 6-Nov. 13
Auction 2: Nov. 13- Nov. 20
Auction 3: Nov. 20-Nov. 27
Auction 4: Nov. 27- Dec.4
Auction 5: Dec.4- Dec. 11 --- This is the auction my ornaments will be auctioned, so mark your calendars for Dec 4th!Robertssnow.com has a link to the live ebay auctions on its homepage (look for the red snowflake icon). Also, when you view each snowflake individually, the date of their auction is posted. Furthermore, you can sort the snowflakes by auction number with the pull-down menu under "view snowflakes."
(http://www.robertssnow.com/view.php).If you win -- your original snowflake will shipped on or about Dec. 12 -- after the snowflake exhibits on the east and west coasts.
Want to see the exhibits? 125 of the snowflakes can be seen at the Loccoro Rittoro Gallery in Boston, MA until Dec. 11. The other 75 are Storyopolis in Studio City, CA. See here for more details:
http://www.robertssnow.com/content.php?page=events.Don't miss out! It's a wonderful cause--happy bidding!
Many thanks,
Peter
As of October 21, 2005
Everybody Wins Gala Fundraiser - Nov. 17th
Peter has been supporting Everybody Wins Metro Boston for many years - and this year their annual fundraiser gala will again include Peter's orignal artwork as a featured auction item, along with fine art from Senator Ted Kennedy! The event is at the Boston Children's Museum on Thursday evening, November 17th. We hope you can join us if you'll be in the Boston area!
Everybody Wins is dedicated to increasing children's prospects for success in school and in life through one-to-one reading experiences with caring adults. They work to generate enthusiasm for reading and improve children's literacy through the Power Lunch program.
As of October 15, 2005
Peter Shares Writing Tips On FOX-TV - 15 Tips for Getting Kids (and Grown Up Kids) to Write!
Lights, camera, action! Boston's FOX-TV recently invited FableVision's Peter H. Reynolds to share some of his tips for sparking and nurturing creativity in the home. Implement some of the ideas in your classroom with a showing of THE DOT film or inspirational writing with STATIONERY STUDIO!
As of September 5, 2005
Park City Literary Festival Spotlights Peter H. Reynolds
Peter was invited along with several other well-known authors (including Michael Blake – Dances With Wolves) to kick off the first annual Park City Literary Festival in stunningly beautiful Park City, Utah, where THE DOT film was shown at the famous Egyptian Theater. Linda Lee from Scholastic/Weston Woods helped host Peter and FableVisionary Bill Norris who also attended the four-day event.
A seasonal adjunct to the Sundance Film Festival, the venue also gave Peter a chance to visit several area schools where he shared his messages about art, creativity and self-expression, which are featured in his award-winning book series THE DOT and ISH (Candlewick Press).
Local Press Coverage of Peter's Ish Message...
As of September 5, 2005
Connect The Dot to Your Class - Book and DVD now Available!
By popular demand, the 2005 Carnegie Medal Winning film THE DOT is available on DVD (School Edition) in the FableVision Shoppe, along with the book that the film was based on. Also included are downloadable educator guides to spark creativity. The film is based on the book by Peter H. Reynolds, and produced in partnership with Scholastic/Weston Woods and FableVision.
P.S. This just in: THE DOT film has been selected for the Children's Program at FilmColumbia! The Festival runs October 20th-23rd and the Children's Program will be on Saturday, October 22nd. See www.filmcolumbia.com for more info. For Info & the FREE DOT Guide
As of August 20, 2005
Peter H. Reynolds Makes Yet Another Virtual Author Visit - This Time to Over 2000 Students!
On the heels of the first hugely successful virtual classroom visit, Pennsylvania Department of Education Technology Director Michael Golden and former lead staffer Lance Rougeux organized a second author classroom visit with Peter H. Reynolds. However, this session was a bit bigger than the first session. From his bookstore in Dedham, Massachusetts, The Blue Bunny, Peter interacted with 82 classrooms and well over 2100 students once again allowing him to share his books, his art, his story telling and passion for creativity and learning.
The Elluminate Live elearning platform enabled Peter to talk over the Internet, listen to the whole class, interact in an IM chat, use a whiteboard to share his art, and offer an interactive drawing session. To read the whole story...
As of August 1, 2005
Announcing FableVision's "Make Your Mark" Professional Development Workshop Series
The Creative Journey is just one of the several courses being offered as part of FableVision's Make Your Mark With Professional Development Series. The 'Make Your Mark' Professional Development Workshops offer a blend of the best current teaching practices and theories taught by highly skilled educators. They are about making learning more rewarding and effective by acknowledging different learning styles, multiple intelligences and emotional intelligences.
Our Current Workshop Offerings include:
• The Creative Journey with Peter H. Reynolds
• The North Star: A Blend of New Thinking about Learning and Creativity
• Inspiring Writing with Young Children
• Writing Beyond Paper, Pencil, and Essay Tests
• Academic Achievement: Does One Size Fit All?
• The Power of ExpressionFind more details at www.fablevision.com/professionaldevelopment
As of June 15, 2005
Guide for Using THE DOT & ISH in Classrooms Now Available
Produced by our friends at Candlewick Press, this great little booket is packed with inspiring messages from Peter's, practical ideas, activities and reproducibles that expand on the themes of self- expression and creativity in THE DOT and ISH. To get a free copy of the guide, email aziza@fablevision.com
Peter H. Reynolds Off to ALA for 2005 Carnegie Medal for THE DOT Film - a Scholastic/Weston Woods-FableVision Co-Production
Peter heads to Chicago this weekend for American Library Association's Caldecott, Newbery and Carnegie Medal gala! He'll join co-producers Paul Gagne and Melissa Reilly of Scholastic/Weston Woods for the celebrations as the animated film adaptation of THE DOT book is bestowed the 2005 Andrew Carnegie Medal of Excellence. Narrated by Thora Birch, with music by Jerry Dale McFadden, FableVision's Gary Goldberger & John Lechner led the animation production team. For more information on bringing some animated DOT inspiration into your classroom, check out The Dot Film
As of May 25, 2005
Visit Peter on the Road!: Appearing at NECC/Philly - June 28-30th!
We hope you're all planning to attend the National Educational Computing Conference (NECC) in Philadelphia June 28-30th. This is the biggest educational technology conference in the US, and Peter's company FableVision will be there in a big way. Come meet the ol' gang, some of the newest FableVisionaries, including the head of our FableVision Ambassador Program Aziza Mercher, as well as Jane Reynolds and Peter Wright who are setting up our FableVision UK Office and spearheading partnerships and new product development.
The FableVision "Make Your Mark!" Booth is #53. Watch for next month's FableFlash for a detailed FableVision- NECC Guide listing where we'll be speaking and what we'll be up to. Hope we see you there!
As of April 23, 2005
New
- the Peter H. Reynolds Gift Gallery!
Whether you're looking for the perfect gifts for friends, for your library, your school, or yourself... Peter is making this limited edition collection available for the first time. Visit the Peter H. Reynolds Gift Gallery, and keep checking back for new additions.
As of March 6, 2005
Sign Up for Peter's Creative Journey Retreat - March 31st
Need time and space to recharge and refocus on your mission? Whether you're stuck in a place you don't like, tired of the "same old" grind, or simply ready to look at the challenges ahead in a creative new way, this retreat is for you. Especially designed for educators, artist & writers, but open to anyone searching for inspiration to make life a more meaningful journey, join Peter H. Reynolds for a day-long creative retreat on Thursday, March 31, 2005 at the Dedham Community House, Dedham, MA.
For more information, check out - www.fablevision.com/creativejourney
As of March 3, 2005
Judy Moody Spin-Off STINK Series Released - Release Party This Weekend!
We're celebrating the new book series STINK, written by Megan McDonald and illustrated by Peter, which is launching in March as a spin-off from their award- winning, best-selling JUDY MOODY book series collaboration. Recently hitting the New York Times Best Seller series list, The JUDY MOODY series has sold nearly four million copies worldwide and has won dozens of awards and honors including the Publishers Weekly Best Children's Book o f the Year. (Check out the JUDY MOODY site FableVision designed & produced - www.judymoody.com - for more info.) But as Peter points out, "The real honor is writing another book that celebrates a child who is taking on real life challenges with creativity and resilience - that's always central to my mission."
As of January 21, 2005
Peter here - something special I'd like to share...
Hi all - it's me, Peter! Today I had a very special day visiting children at Miller's Children's Hospital through the Starlight Starbright Foundation - reading, drawing and visiting with all the kids there. During my visit, I spent some time with a great teen named Kat, who I showed how to animate on my computer!
As of January 17, 2005
Film
Adaptation of The Dot Wins 2005 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence
in Children's Video
We were VERY excited to be awakend in the wee hours of the morning with the news that the animated film adaptation of Peter's book The Dot has won the prestigious 2005 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Children’s Video as part of the American Library Association’s (ALA) youth media awards, which includes the Newbery and Caldecott Medals. The short animated film, produced by Peter's children’s media company, FableVision, in association with Paul R. Gagne and Melissa Reilly of Scholastic/Weston Woods Studios, is narrated by Thora Birch, with music by Jerry Dale McFadden. FableVision’s Gary Goldberger & John Lechner led the team who directed and animated the short film. This is an incredible honor for Peter and all involved in the film's production.
Click here to read the full press release.
As of January 14, 2005
Peter H. Reynolds to Appear in L.A. at Storyopolis 10th Anniversary Event - Jan 21/22
Peter will appear in L.A. on January 21-22 at the Storyopolis 10th Anniversary 2-day celebration of artists and authors! Events include an artists studio reception, as well as a book-signing and demo day. Admission is FREE -- RSVP required. Click here for more information.
As of December 5, 2004
IT'S HERE! He Was Me is Now Available on DVD!
The waiting is over! Peter's He Was Me short film is now on DVD for purchase, as part of FableVision's "Stories that Matter" Collection, which also includes The Blue Shoe (in three languages!) and Living Forever. Order now or learn more by going to FableVision's online Shoppe.
As of October 31, 2004
The Dot Film Wins at Chicago Int'l Children's Film Fest!
Peter was thrilled to attend the Chicago International Children's Film Festival on behalf of FableVision and Weston Woods to pick up an exciting award for the new film version of his award-winning book The Dot. The film took 2nd place and is now automatically eligible for an Oscar nomination! Whether or not the film makes it to Hollywood, we're just happy to see this important message reach more and more people.
As of October 11, 2004
Peter H. Reynolds to Appear at StorybookArt Annual Show
Peter H. Reynolds will appear at the StorybookArt 4th Annual Show on October 20th from 4-5ish at the Oilily store in Chestnut Hill, MA. Come meet Peter and check out StorybookArt’s collection of original storybook art (including Peter’s!), all available for purchase at 10% off! The show runs from 10/20-10/22/04.
As of September 13, 2004
A Gift From Peter H. Reynolds. New Animated film He Was Me - FREE Download!
Here it is – the film that has been receiving standing ovations across the country at Peter’s keynotes – He Was Me. Originally called "Once Upon a Time I Was Him", this short animated film features a man standing in the rain at a bus stop – and an unusual “inner dialogue” that can provoke some powerful reflection’s about our own journeys. Peter wants to give the animated film away to educators and caregivers who are making a difference in the journeys of millions of children. And not just a streaming version, but a complete DOWNLOADABLE version – just click on the following link to learn more: http://www.fablevision.com/hewasme
NOTE: Because of the high-quality audio, He Was Me is a big file and will play as a small window.
As of September 9, 2004
The Dot Film Scheduled to Premiere at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts
Join Peter H. Reynolds and friends for the Boston premiere of The Dot film on October 16th at 10:30a.m. at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts. Peter will be reading his new book Ish as well as showing FableVision’s other award-winning animated films (Blue Shoe, Living Forever) and other FableVision/Weston Woods animated collaborations - Pete’s A Pizza and Antarctic Antics.
For more information on the program and ticket prices check out: http://www.fablevision.com/openhouse
As of September 4, 2004
PeterHReynolds.com New "Art" Section Unveiled!
After many requests from visitors asking to see more of Peter's art, we were excited to be able to launch the brand new "Art" section of his site today. Here you will be able to view samples of Peter's artwork - from book illustration studies, to watercolors, to doodles. Just click the "Peter's Art" navigation button on the bottom of most pages. We'll be adding many more images of Peter's art to the "Peter's Art" section of his site, so keep checking back.
By the way, if you're wondering where the "Peter's Mission" page went, you can find it on the "Meet Peter" page.
As of August 25, 2004
Special News - Directly from Peter: Ish is here!
My latest book, Ish (published by Candlewick Press), was released this past week! This is the sequel to my last book, The Dot. Ish continues my trilogy on creativity – I call it my “crea-trilogy” (Sky Color, the third and final book in the creatrilogy, will be out next year.)
Ish shares my approach to relaxing about art. So many people say “I can’t draw!” - but when I hear “I can’t...” it inspires me to say.... “Oh, yes, you can...” And with the right attitude adjustment, you’ll see you can.
As of July 1, 2004
Announcing The Dot Animated Film!
Click here for more information.
As of May 8, 2004
Original Art Helps Important Cause
Peter's life mission has been dedicated to helping children, so he couldn't pass up an opportunity to support a local organization that helps homeless children. Peter has been honored to donate a piece of his original art each year to the Horizon's for Homeless Children auction. This year, his piece, "Artist in Bloom", raised over $2,000. Founded in 1988 as an independent, non-profit organization, Horizons for Homeless Children is the only organization in Massachusetts dedicated exclusively to serving homeless children and their families. For more information about this wonderful organization, visit http://www.horizonsinitiative.org.
As of March 24, 2004
Peter Puts Dots on Fox
Boston woke to a sea of inspired dots as Fox TV 25 welcomed Peter and a crew of creative children to their morning news show. During the show, Peter read his latest book, The Dot, to the kids, and then led them in a big, dot-painting fiesta! The show was capped off with an interview with Gene Lavanche, as Peter shared some behind-the-scenes scoop on The Dot. What an inspiring way to start the day!
As of March 20, 2004
The CUE Technology in Learning Leadership Award
This spring, Peter was awarded the Technology In Learning Leadership Award from the CUE (Computer Using Educators) organization, one of the nation's leading groups dedicated to the effective use of technology in teaching and learning. Peter was given the award at a special celebration in Palm Springs, California where his twenty-year career in educational technology was highlighted in a gala awards celebration. CUE's Technology in Learning Leadership Awards recognize local, state and national leaders in educational technology. For more info on CA CUE, visit http://www.cue.org
>
As of March 14, 2004
Peter Travels to SPACE to Share The Dot!
Well, no... not OUTER space, but the SPACE "Alternative Arts Venue" in Portland, Maine, where Peter appeared as one of four children's book authors in the SPACE Lunch Box Author Series! During his Lunchbox Series event at SPACE, Peter dazzled a full-house of children and parents as he read The Dot, while
spontaneously directing children as they acted out the story. After the reading, Peter joined the children as they dove into an array of "dot" painting activities and games. Thanks to the gang at SPACE for being such stellar hosts!
As of March 10, 2004
Recipient of Borders' Original Voices Award
Peter barely had time to catch his breath after receiving the prestigious Christopher Award (read below) when he learned that he has also been granted Borders’ 2004 Original Voices Award (OVA) for The Dot! Borders’ OVA is an award series that “shines a deserving light on emerging and innovative authors.” Along with a $5000 dollar award, Peter’s book will be featured nationwide during the month of March on in-store displays, in Borders’ This Month Magazine and online. As Border’s announcement put it, “The simply illustrated story speaks to both children and adults about creativity and self-confidence.” That is a message worth spreading across ALL borders!
As of February 28, 2004
Peter Honored with Inspirational Award in NYC
Accompanied by his twin brother Paul, Peter was honored at the 55th Annual Christopher Awards in NYC on February 26th for his storybook The Dot. This prestigious awards program honors individuals in publishing, film, broadcast TV and cable industries whose work "expresses the highest values of the human spirit". The Dot shows how a little girl is helped to overcome her insistence that she can't draw by a teacher who urges her to "make your mark and see where it takes you." Peter joined the company of past honorees that include Elie Wiesel, Bob Hope, publisher Margaret K. McElderry, Charles M. Schulz, Fred Rogers, and Steven Spielberg.
Upcoming
Events
2008
April 27 North Star Children's Ramble - A Race for Ages 4-12. Endicott Estate, off of East Street in Dedham, MA
April 30- May 1 MICCA Conference in Baltimore, MD Keynote Speakers: Gary Goldberger and Paul Reynolds (FableVision) PowerPlay in the Classroom – Can Online Games in the Classroom Reach the Students We’re Leaving Behind? Peter H. Reynolds will be in attendance as well.