Rebecca Kai Dotlich is “some poet,” as Charlotte might say!
My first encounter with Rebecca was several years ago. We were both speaking at an SCBWI conference in Birmingham, AL. We got to stay in the lovely home of Joan Broerman, who made sure that we were cozy and comfortable. In fact, Rebecca and I were so cozy and comfortable that we took up residence in the kitchen in our jammies and ate bagels and cream cheese for what seemed like hours. I’m sure it wasn’t that long, but the point I’m trying to make is that from the first bites of those bagels, it seemed like we had been friends our whole lives long.
Ever since then, we try our hardest to meet at kitchen tables in our jammies, at least once a year. This year, I caught her on my Flipcam. Enjoy!
Not only is Rebecca “some poet,” she’s also “some teacher”!
Here are some photos of Rebecca in action:
Her books are just like her, too: sweet, exuberant, a little sly, and always . . . kind.
For more about Bella and Bean, Illustrated by Aileen Leitjen, there’s a fantastic interview with Rebecca on Cynthia Leitich Smith’s amazing blog, Cynsations.
To me, Rebecca is “some friend”!
Calloo, callay, buckaroos!
This interview was a small package – a package of friendship and insight. Thank you, Kathi and Rebecca, for taking the time to talk about poetry – its beauty, purpose and power. I use so many of Rebecca’s books when I’m consulting in schools. The children love her images, and I think her kindness shows in every word.
Hi Kathi,
Rebecca is indeed a gifted poet, teacher and wonderful, kind friend. I’m so glad you captured her radiance and brilliance on video! Thanks!
Georgia Heard
Loved this interview, Kathi! So good to hear Rebecca’s (and your) voice.
I’m going to try that poetry picture prompt in my classroom this week. THANKS!
Kathi, you introduced me to Rebecca’s work when you told me I absolutely had to read “Bella and Bean”. Since then, I have recommended it to every teacher I know. Rebecca is a gifted poet and I am so glad you featured her here!
-Sarah
Lovely interviewer, lovely interviewee. Two class acts in poetry!!!!
Thank you, Kathi, for capturing Rebecca’s generous spirit and bits of wisdom here. We can’t wait to have her in Georgia this June to lead a poetry writing retreat for SCBWI Southern Breeze. :0) Details/registration info coming VERY SOON at southern-breeze.net.