Barbara Santucci is a writer and artist in Rockford, Illinois. Barbara received a B.S.Ed degree from Loyola University and has studied art at Rockford College and Northern Illinois University. Barbara graduated from the MFA Writing for Children Program at Vermont College. For eight years she taught elementary and preschool and also worked as a librarian. Her love for children's literature fueled her desire to write for children. Currently, Barbara is teaching creative writing at an elementary school in Rockford, IL. Barbara was on faculty at the 2009 Highlights Conference in Chautauqua, NY.

PUBLICATIONS

Barbara is the author of three picture books titled LOON SUMMER, winner of the Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year, of which the School Library Journal said, "The father-daughter relationship is beautifully and thoughtfully depicted....". And Midwest Book Review stated: " . . . is highly recommended for family, school and community library collections . . .." ANNA'S CORN, illustrated by Lloyd Bloom, received a starred review in Publisher's Weekly. Her book, ABBY'S CHAIRS was listed in the IRA Children's Choice Lists, and also the Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year. All three books are published by the Wm. B. Eerdmans Books for Young Readers.

Barbara has also published several short stories and poetry in magazines.

PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS

Barbara enjoys doing school visits. She gives a slide show where she reads one of her books and includes other photos that are related to her stories; such as loons, corn fields and chairs around the country. Barbara also includes slides of her own art work and discusses how it influences her stories. Her presentation lasts 40-50 minutes and often includes an interactive time where the children make up their own group story paying attention to the 6 parts of a story.

Barbara conducts workshops that include the 6 basic elements of story, a poetry and art combined workshop and a journaling workshop, plus any others that can been seen on her website.

Contact Information:
Email: bgsantucci@juno.com
Website: http://www.barbarasantucci.com
Address: 10852 Whispering Pines Way, Rockford, IL 61114