I was so lucky to be in New York at just the right time, I came across a book signing by illustrator and writer Eric Carle at the Barnes & Noble book store in Union Square.

He was promoting his new book The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, this is to encourage confidence and creativity with children and he says that “you don’t have to stay within the lines and they are no ‘wrong’ colours”.  This was a great excuse for me to treat myself to 3 childrens books – The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Animals Animals and Baby Bear, Baby Bear What Do You See.

There was quite a grown up audience there for the signing as he is a well loved illustrator mostly know for his book The Hungry Caterpillar.  I didn’t realise he had illustrated so many books and also has a museum dedicated to picture books.

Also while I was in NYC I also got some goodies in Powerhouse Arena in Brooklyn which was a great space to browse with a fantastic selection of arty design books and children’s section too with exhibition, events and graffiti.

They also stock Natalie Russells Moon Rabbit which is nice to see a Dundee illustrators books while on holiday in NYC.