"Language is like music," says Alice McGinty. "When I write, I play with words and ideas, and put them together to create something exciting and new."

Alice B. McGinty, the author of 38 children's books, writes both fiction and nonfiction. Her most recent picture books include: Thank You, World (illustrated by Wendy Anderson Halperin, 2007, Dial Books) and Eliza's Kindergarten Surprise (illustrated by Nancy Speir, 2007, Marshall Cavendish). Her upcoming nonfiction book, Darwin (picture book biography, illustrated by Mary Azarian, Houghton Mifflin) is due out in Spring, 2008. Ms. McGinty's other nonfiction books are about subjects ranging from tarantulas to history to nutrition.

Catch the Rhythm: Using poetry, spoken language, books, and song, participants will catch the rhythm of language. We'll write it, clap it, move it, sing it, and drum it! (Grades K - 3, workshop or assembly)

What's So Funny: From outrageous characters to silly situations to pure nonsense, we'll explore humor in writing and practice the skills you need to make your writing funny. (Grades 3 - 6, workshop or assembly)

A Kindergarten Surprise As Eliza does in the story, Eliza's Kindergarten Surprise, students will make Mommy dolls and explore art and writing as outlets for feelings. (Kindergarten – workshop)

Conference Presentation: The Psychological Connection - Emotional Power in Writing: Explore the elements which give writing depth and power by uncovering the psychological elements below the surface. This program examines what psychologists have learned about human emotion and behavior and applies that knowledge to the art of children's literature and writing. (Adults' writers, librarians, teachers)

Alice McGinty is the SCBWI Illinois Downstate Coordinator and lives in Urbana, IL with her husband and teenage sons. See her website for more detailed information about her publications and programs.

Contact Information:
Email:alice@mcgintyzone.com
Website: http://www.alicebmcginty.com