Amelia Bedelia!

I grew up with Amelia Bedelia, did you? I adored her energy and childlike, literal view of the world. There are two new picture books out, showing us a young Amelia Bedelia - and they are just as charming and amusing as the older readers. A really nice way to introduce a beloved character. Lynne Avril's illustrations are fun and vibrant, and I know I personally see a bit of the grown-up Amelia in her. The cover alone made me swoon - I love when illustrators can simplify children/objects in the distance. That ability to translate your medium into what is 'out of focus' is awesome and something I'd love to figure out in my own work.
I thought I would share some of my old Amelia books. The above is the original series illustrator - apparently Fritz Siebel was a VP in NYC while doing these books? How intriguing is that? His daughter, Barbara Siebel Thomas has illustrated several books too. There's a big heritage with this series. Peggy Paris passed away in 1988 and her nephew, Herman Parish has written the new picture books and many other AB readers. The Harper Collins site gives you all this history and more - fun stuff for young fans!
But I do have a favorite illustrator. Lynn Sweat's Amelia is MY Amelia. Quirky and vibrant - just look at the inking on her outfit! I loved this spread and just had to share it - oh, Amelia! I wish I had the energy to make strawberry tarts while my little one naps. Instead, I'm blogging about you.