Picture a storyteller who brought a cheerful little pickup truck to life, charming kids with rhymes and farmyard friends—meet Alice Schertle! Born in 1941, this American poet and children’s author has penned over forty books, with her beloved Little Blue Truck series steering straight into the hearts of young readers. Her playful, poetic style and knack for capturing nature’s wonders make her stories timeless treasures.
The Making of Alice Schertle
Alice Schertle was born on April 7, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, where her love for words took root. A graduate of the University of Southern California, she started as an elementary school teacher, sparking young minds before turning to writing. Her early career blended teaching with storytelling, laying the foundation for her poetic approach. Inspired by childhood favorites like Mary Poppins and The Black Stallion, Schertle found joy in crafting tales that paint vivid pictures with words.
Alice Schertle’s Unforgettable Stories
Schertle’s books are a delightful mix of rhyme, rhythm, and relatable themes. Her standout series, Little Blue Truck, launched in 2008 with illustrator Jill McElmurry, follows a friendly truck and his animal pals. Its catchy rhymes and lessons on kindness have made it a New York Times bestseller. Down the Road (2000), illustrated by E.B. Lewis, tells a tender story of a girl learning from mistakes, showcasing Schertle’s knack for emotional depth. Very Hairy Bear (2007) explores seasons through a lovable bear, perfect for introducing kids to nature. Her poetry shines in ¡Pío Peep!, a collection of Spanish nursery rhymes adapted into English, celebrating cultural connections.
Schertle’s style is distinctly poetic, weaving nature, language, and humor into stories that engage young readers and encourage reading aloud. Her ability to blend education with entertainment—think animal sounds or counting games—makes her books classroom favorites. Whether it’s a truck stuck in mud or a bear’s seasonal adventures, her tales resonate with kids and parents alike.
Why Alice Schertle Matters
Alice Schertle’s impact on children’s literature is profound. Her books don’t just entertain; they nurture a love for reading, language, and empathy. The Little Blue Truck series, with its focus on friendship and cooperation, has become a staple in homes and schools, inspiring countless read-aloud sessions. Awards like the Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award and the Christopher Award highlight her literary contributions. By blending poetic flair with relatable stories, Schertle has shaped generations of readers, proving that words can indeed paint pictures.
- About Alice Schertle
- Born: April 7, 1941, in Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: Little Blue Truck, Down the Road, Very Hairy Bear, ¡Pío Peep!
- Awards: Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award, Christopher Award
- Fun Fact: A former teacher, she lives in Plainfield, Massachusetts
Ready to beep along with a little blue truck? Snag Little Blue Truck and dive into Alice Schertle’s rhyming, heartwarming world!