Bring Books to Life Through Art Projects: A Hands-on Experience

Get ready to rip, glue, cut, and paint in this colorful session. I will present three books and three beautiful, easy-to-implement art projects that correspond. Participants will also leave with 10 art activities for some of the most popular books in the children's book world right now. Art is an effective way to reach dual-language learners, reluctant readers, and struggling readers. As a former school librarian and mother of three delightfully wild boys (now grown), I know the struggle some students have with connecting to stories. Movement and creativity draws student into the moment and allows them to imagine. My credentials include former school librarian, art teacher, Gilbert Public School District's "Teacher of the Year" (2018), Intel's 40 in 40 (2020), and Tucson Festival of Books presenting author (2025). 

Learning Objectives:

• Introduce concepts of brain science behind connecting literature to art.
• Present three books and three hands-on art projects.
• Provide 10 art activities to use with trending children's books (Fluffy McWhiskers series, The Day the Crayons Quit series, etc.). 
  

Presenters:

April Lesher is a children’s book author and teacher. April earned her master’s degree in English as a Second Language from Arizona State University. She was named her school district’s “Teacher of the Year” (2018), and one of “Intel’s 40 in 40” (2020). Her books include, The Cactus Dance/ La Danza del Cactus (2023), How Many Javelinas? ¿Cuántos Jabalíes? (2024), and Brinca! Brinca! Jump! Jump! (2025). April has also been invited to speak at large events such as Tucson Festival of Books.