Meet the Author
Diane Twomley is a mother and grandmother who has an interesting laugh and always sees a silver lining, even when others don’t. Some of her favorite things include sand between her toes, books, jelly donuts, cozy pajamas, and the laughter of little children. She believes that you are never too old to try something new, such as writing a book. Diane has always worked in jobs that allow her to help others. She spent almost twenty-five years in a middle school library, where her favorite thing was helping students find the perfect book. She lives in central Pennsylvania with her husband, Mike. They have raised two wonderful sons and treasure every moment with their grandson, Harper T.S. Her next project, Picking Patch, is based on a true story about a surprise in a pumpkin patch.
Details
Format: Paperback, Hardcover
Pages: 32
ISBN Hardcover: 978-1-953021-97-7
ISBN Paperback: 978-1-953021-98-4
Release date: 10/11/2022
Endorsements
“Have you ever wondered what happens at the beach after you leave? When summer ends, and the crowds retreat? Allow Carole Jane to take you through the seasons at the beach that many of us never see. This book is an invitation to explore the quiet beauty that resides at the beach year-round.”
~ David Rockower, author of The Power of Teaching Vulnerably, recipient of the 2017 National Middle School English Teacher of the Year award, and Heinemann Fellow
“What happens at a small beach town after the summer tourist season ends? For Carole Jane, each subsequent season is equally delightful, with several sweet adventures and small slices of life worth capturing. Carole Jane from Starfish Lane marks a descriptive debut for author Diane Twomley and illustrator Cheryl Grant, both of whom bring this relatable, insightful girl’s world to life. Whether finding joys through community, family, or solitary time, Carole Jane marks the occasion with appreciation and creativity. By extension, she will likely nudge readers to create, explore, or do more in their own setting, and hopefully keep track of these memorable moments for the future. Twomley’s words capture the tone and pace of shore life in a perfectly approachable manner for young readers, and Grant’s graceful, postcard-worthy illustrations capture the small town charm effectively. With an engaging layout and accessible formatting, Carole Jane from Starfish Lane is sure to lure more readers to the shore life all year long! Recommended for all ages.”
~Dustin Brackbill, librarian, Pennsylvania School Library Association member, committee co-chair, and former library director
“All of our senses are engaged by Diane Twomley and Cheryl Grant in their picture book, Carole Jane from Starfish Lane. From her ‘pale yellow house at the end of Starfish Lane,’ Carole Jane shows us why, living on the island all year long, she just might love the other seasons more than summer. The lively text is seamlessly matched by captivating illustrations, immersing the reader into Carole Jane’s world of seaside wonders. We feel the spray, hear the gulls, sip the hot chocolate, see the tide pools, and smell the beach bonfire.
“‘You are never lonely if you have something wonderful to read,’ Carole Jane’s grandmother once told her. Readers of this sparkling book will, indeed, feel welcomed into the Mac Island community and its year-round activities. We find ourselves drawn to this new view of a beach resort and pleased to learn how different it can be from September to May. Children will want to revisit this seaside world often.”
~ Priscilla McFerren, retired director of the Guthrie Memorial Library
“Diane Twomley has written a charming book that sets the scene for children who wonder what it’s like living by the sea in the off season.
“Carole Jane from Starfish Lane takes you on a delightful journey of coastal living on Mac Island during the seasons less familiar and perhaps more meaningful than summer. Quieter times, shorter days, stronger winds, and peaceful family adventures are the focus. From exploring tidal pools and searching for beach treasures to cozy holiday traditions and family bike rides, Carole Jane and her family cherish their year-round Mac Island life.
“If you, too, are curious about life at the beach, I encourage you to follow along with the enchanting Carole Jane from Starfish Lane.”
~ Cathy Fleck, founder and shopkeeper of Curiouser & Curiouser on Cape Cod
“This book is like spending a long, perfect night at the shore. I can almost hear the waves crashing and smell the salty sea. From the very first word to the very last page, the story and illustrations were a perfect way for me to spend some quality time with my granddaughters while they drifted off to sleep. Thank you, Diane, for perfectly capturing so many fond memories for many of us.”
~Jeff Brown, radio personality with Forever Broadcasting and grandfather
“Diane Twomley’s love for children, books, and the beach shines through in this wonderful story. The positive perspective of the off season through the eyes of Carole Jane brings joy with each word and lovely illustration. The story encourages living in the moment, enjoying life, and appreciating whatever comes your way. This charming tale will bring a smile to your face.”
~Sandra L. Stewart, project director for Friendship Connections and GoPals, Master SEL and Friendship Group trainer
Meet the Illustrator
Cheryl Grant was born and raised in the mountains of Virginia. Simple country living and love of family influenced many of her illustrations. Cheryl attended Mary Baldwin University, graduating in 1990 with an art degree. When Cheryl’s son was born, she decided to stay home with him. During this time, she continued to create treasured art for friends and family. Cheryl returned to work in the early 2000s, creating a popular website that made her art available for digital download. Some of her most popular illustrations feature her adorable puppy, her two cats, and their sassy adventures. Cheryl now enjoys spending time with her grandson and watching him grow. This is the first time Cheryl has illustrated a published book.
