Launching June 15, 2021!
Pre-Order Available (see Books)
“There is a lot to unpack in this book…both a heartfelt eulogy and a musical inspiration for a new generation of young readers.” – Kirkus
“Hosea does more than entertain; he makes his own community as he shares his music and his warmth.” – Publishers Weekly
“Blasi skillfully weaves dialogue, nature sounds, and city noise throughout the musical narrative…” – School Library Journal
“Hosea Missouri Taylor, Jr., is brought to life by Blasi and Evans through a fictionalized example of his openhearted giving.” – Booklist
Rain or shine and with his saxophone case in hand, Hosea rides the bus to the City of Rochester Public Market. Joyfully, he plays for everyone there, but especially for the children. Today, will he earn enough money to surprise one special child?
An Author’s Note gives a deeper glimpse into the life of Hosea MIssouri Taylor, Jr. – a street musician and community advocate who elevated the lives of those in his community, “simply” by being himself.
Family History is Part of Who We Are
“A Name of Honor is an outstanding book to use for effective and meaningful integration of social studies and language arts. It draws students in with well-developed and believable characters and an engaging plot, rich in historic information. It complements, extends, and enriches, social studies curriculum.”
Which Side Will You Take?
Our Writer-in-Residence, Kathleen Blasi, delivered material to our students in a way that got them excited to write! She broke down her writing process, so that by the end, the students had a piece of writing to be proud of. I cannot say enough good things about Kathleen as a presenter, an example, and a teacher.
– Stephen Baker, Teacher, Warsaw (New York) Elementary School
Upcoming Events
Now Offering Virtual Visits
Book Launch & StoryWalk
My picture book, Milo’s Moonlight Mission hits bookshelves on June 15th. Join us in celebrating on Saturday, June 19th! The event will be held at Farmington (NY) Town Park, 1000 County Road 8, Farmington, 9-11:30, with the read aloud from 10-10:30. Books can be pre-ordered through my hosting bookstore, Lift Bridge Bookshop, by phone or online. Hope to see you there!
Writerly Ramblings
The Heart of a Story
Pictures tell stories. Sometimes, those stories are placed in photo albums. Sometimes, they make their way into family lore. And once in a blue moon, they find their way into a picture book. Funny how the vision of a story begins, then evolves, and finally arrives at...
Literacy Gets Personal
2020 was a year of twists and turns, ups and downs—pick your cliché! Recently, my dad suffered a stroke. He has a road ahead of him and takes it day by day. Some days are and will be better than others. But my family is blessed to still have him. And as I say, he is...
Puzzles
When I was a kid, my family spent time in the Adirondacks. No TV. Just board games and...puzzles. And I’m talking big puzzles with lots (millions?) of pieces. Everyone seemed to get into it. Everyone, that is, except me. Spatial relationships—ugh, too much like math!...
Schedule a Visit or Speaking Engagement
kathy@kmblasi.com
Contact Kathleen
kathy@kmblasi.com