Mauerman, Nancy

Nancy Mauerman writes novels for kids that are beautifully illustrated and have a strong central plot with several sub-plots broadening the character's motivation and adding quirky details used later in the story. There are surprise word pictures on most every page, like, "Worms don't need legs. They dance together, in slime they spit out, cheek to cheek." Nancy uses alliterations and assonance, invents new words and introduces others, previously known to adults. She explains their meaning and repeats the word again soon, without breaking the rhythm of the story. Family problem-solving is her