Be a BEA fan

This weekend thousands of book lovers will descend upon New York for the 2009 BookExpo America at the Javits Center. Over 500 authors and illustrators will take up residence among 1500+ exhibitors sharing the latest titles in the book business. BookExpo America (BEA) is always a good time, but can be a bit overwhelming for the first time visitor as the cavernous Javits Center can swallow tour groups whole. Check the comprehensive website for the BEA to plan which publishers booths or author signings you want to attend. Also, many exhibitors give away free copies of books so be sure to bring a tote bag to stash your swag!


If you are there on Sunday, be sure to stop by booth #734 between 11 AM to noon to catch Matthew Reinhart promoting his wonderful Nursery Rhymes pop-up book due out in September. The art above is a little sneak peek at some of the colorful characters brought to life in this three-dimensional version of your favorite childhood rhymes. Matthew will be signing at the First Book booth, which is an amazing nonprofit organization dedicated to getting new books in the hands of children in need. So far First Book has delivered over 60 million new books to young readers in communities across the U.S. and Canada.

So if you cannot make it to BEA this year, consider supporting First Book with the money you would have spend on the trip, and remember to visit www.robertsabuda.com soon to see more Nursery Rhymes images.

- Kyle