Author Announcement: Frances Bloxum

Frances Bloxam of Bath, Maine, is the author of three children’s books: Antlers Forever, Little Tom Turkey and Beau Beaver Goes to Town.  Each tells the story of a Maine wild animal and the dramatic and often hilarious process of growing up.  Written in lively rhyme, Frances’ books are perfect for the very young and also for the adults who enjoy reading aloud to children.  Her books have been read to Maine school children by Senator Susan Collins and are found in bookstores and national park gift shops throughout the United States.  Maine Fish and Wildlife Department personnel have used them in educational programs for children.  Frances devotes her time to book fairs, book signings, school programs and read-aloud programs at libraries throughout Maine and other states.

Although Frances’ first book was published in 2001 when she was 67, her entire life has embraced learning, literacy and helping children grow to be strong adults.  A Midwesterner, Frances’ mother was the town librarian – Frances’ library card number was 7.  Her father wrote informative, humorous columns for the local newspaper.  She has strong memories of another librarian, Ms. Jeanpert, who always spoke with her, not as a child, but as a person with her own thoughts.

Frances completed graduate work in Child Development, worked as a preschool teacher for many years and married a teacher.  Together they raised five children, who still quote Dr. Suess to each other.  (It drives their spouses crazy.)  The love of words, humor and rhyme continues in the grandchildren.

Frances has balanced her creative, home and family-based life with years of adventurous travel through dozens of countries, and with driving, camping and motorcycling trips in the US.

A reviewer says “Frances knows children well; their love of nonsense, their feeling for rhyme and rhythm”.  She believes in the value of the written word and the need to challenge children as they grow.

Recently, Frances received a Maine Literary Award in the Children’s Division for her recent publication Beau Beaver Goes to Town.