local author is taking on bullying with sidney saidso

April Terrell is a Baltimore City Public School educator on a mission -- to eradicate bullying. The early childhood educator was compelled to write the Sidney Saidso series, which features an African American protagonist, after working daily with disadvantaged youth.

"I wanted to provide my students with a story that would connect them to their life and the daily struggles of school," said April.

While her book was written for elementary school aged children, April believes it's a great tool for parents to introduce anti-bullying behavior to preschool-aged children.

April was kind enough to chat about Sidney Saidso, her first book Sidney Saidso The Miss Know-It-All Girl, and how to cultivate a culture of respect in your own home.

the magical world of k. michael crawford

Howard County author K. Michael Crawford may make a living by writing and illustrating children's books, but she doesn't have any kids of her own. She prefers to rent them, spoil them rotten, and then give them back. Less costly.

Which is code for there are a lot of beloved nieces, nephews and godchildren in her life.

A life-long resident of Maryland, Crawford believes that life is lived best through imagination -- a personal mantra that permeates her work. Although she declared at age 12 she would be the next Dr. Seuss, she made a few career stops in business and advertising -- and teaching -- before settling into her own publishing company. Complete with her Happily Ever Art studio that has shrunken apple heads suspended from the ceiling.