In Angel City, a gang shooting causes Juan great pain when his friend is killed. So old man Joseph consults his neighbors about those mysteries.” Such stories touch the heart but at the same time they do not dodge difficult realities.

Joesph states, “He needs to know Mexican things. Swaddled in dawn.” Old man Joseph goes on to raise that baby, Juan, who is of Mexican heritage. It is a story of an old man who finds a baby in a dumpster, “perfect and new. Several of Tony’s picturebooks that I read many years ago, still reside in my heart, giving me joy and insights about how to navigate my world. As Jane Yolen writes in Touch Magic, “Story is one of the most serious intruders into the heart.” Tony’s writing is distinguished by what she calls “heart work.” Her books touch the heart with memorable stories that can be humorous and warm, serious and challenging while at the same time touching the heart. Recently, I enjoyed a conversation with Tony about her newest novel, Beast Rider, experiences that inform her writing and her writing process. She is known for her 120 plus picturebooks however, her poetry and novels also receive positive reviews. Tony Johnston is a gifted author for children and young adults. Marilyn Carpenter, Professor Emeritus, Eastern Washington University, Spokane, WA

An Old Shell by Tony Johnston