Kristin Wolden Nitz

During the first weekend of October, the Michigan SCBWI put together a lovely conference at the Yarrow Golf Course near Augusta, Michigan with a number of talented speakers from the children’s publishing world.  I noticed that  several other participants had specially decorated nametags, and I recognized the artwork.  It came from the distinctive pen of Ruth McNally Barshaw, the author/illustrator of the Ellie McDoodle books.   I couldn’t help myself. I begged. And, lo!  My  wish was granted. 

Believe me, I wouldn’t have had the audacity to beg if I wasn’t acquainted with Ruth.  I’m a person who used to have to leave the room during the television show MURDER, SHE WROTE whenever some young, earnest writer asked the best-selling author Jessica Fletcher for feedback on a novel.  But I’ve been lucky enough to have a chance to get to know Ruth when we’ve presented at some of the same events around Michigan. And I’ve watched her sketch.     It’ s amazing.  She is a big hit at school visits. 

I would have shared my new treasure much sooner, but was having a few scanner issues. If you’d like to see some of Ruth’s sketches of famous authors, go check out her website: 

http://www.ruthexpress.com/