Childhood Inspiration: Joan Walsh Anglund

I was one of those curious and thoughtful little girls. I always had a question and was a little philosopher. So naturally, the books of author and illustrator Joan Walsh Anglund captured my interest. I just loved, and still do, her adorable illustrations and interpretive prose.  My favorite was "What Color Is Love" (published in the 1966) was a favorite. I think I liked this one in particular so much because it made me wonder and made me wonder what others thought.  And although it may sound silly, I truly believe this little book influenced my writing.




I remember being about six years old copying this book to create a little book of my own. Perhaps it was my first attempt at publishing! :)  It consisted of  4 x 4 inch papers secured with a brass fastener.  I wrote and illustrated my way through the whole book.  I even have it to this day, although it seems to be misplaced or I would show it to you.

To the right you'll see a book review of "What Color is Love" from the Milwaukee Journal - Oct. 22, 1967. 

Since 1958 Joan Walsh Anglund has written and illustrated more than 90 books which have sold more than 40,000,000 copies worldwide. To learn more about her:  Joan Walsh Anglund - How and Why She Writes

Here is a sweet little book of hers you can read online:
Faith is a Flower

Now it's your turn.   Did any of your own childhood reading influence your writing today? And I must ask, what color is love?