Did You Know?
Fun Facts about Jan Brett

Each book begins with the art first. Jan likes to listen to audiobooks while drawing--usually thrillers! Each book takes about a year to complete. The pages of each book are not created in sequence (she saves the front materials and endpapers for last). Each book is carefully researched--she created The Umbrella after a trip with her husband to Costa Rica. Jan prefers to use her memories of a place to create her art, rather than relying on pictures.

For Young Writers and Artists
Tips from Jan Brett

Want a reality check on your artwork? View your work in a mirror. Be honest with yourself, and get comfortable with personal and private writing. Write in a notebook that no one sees but you. Remember the things that happen to you now. It's okay to feel things strongly as a kid. You can use your emotions as part of the recipe for something later.