Welcome Author Danielle Sharkan – Giveaway Alert

Today I am so excited to share my interview with Danielle Sharkan, she and I are both children’s authors here in Colorado who connected first on social media and are now real life friends. After meeting in person, we realized how many connections we shared including our Judaism, growing up in the same area (not at the same time) near Chicago, Danielle attended school where I did my student teaching (again, not at the same time,) and we even know some of the same people! Danielle is the author of SHARING SHALOM, illustrated by Selina Alko, a powerful new book that addresses antisemitism and also shares a hopeful message of coming together in community.

Danielle is generously offering one lucky winner a picture book critique or a 30 minute Ask-Me-Anything. Comment on the post to enter the giveaway.

What were you like at the age of your target audience?

When I was between four and seven years old, I loved school, playing with friends, cooking, swimming, and celebrating the Jewish holidays. 

Little Danielle, younger than her target age audience but look how adorable she is!

What inspires you?

I live in Boulder, Colorado, and I am inspired by the beautiful and bountiful nature around me. I’m also inspired by my kids, it’s amazing to watch them learn and grow every day. 

What’s something you hope readers take away from your book?

I hope readers of SHARING SHALOM will learn more about Jewish culture, develop empathy, and understanding among people from different cultures, and bravely stand up against racism and hate.

What’s next for you?

My second picture book, ELLIE THE EGGSPERT , comes out in March!

You can find out more about Danielle and her books here:

@daniraeshark Twitter

@danielle_sharkan Instagram



Published by authorlaurablog

I'm a reading specialist and award winning educator from Chicago. While living in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado for nine years, I spent time hiking on the trails with my Goldendoodle Charlie and friends, writing, working in a literacy program at the Boulder Public Library, and mentoring writers and teachers. I love visiting schools. My books combine STEM and Kindness. "Aliana Reaches for the Moon" a picture book that draws inspiration from the moon and the curiosity of children, inviting children to be creative, explore, and experiment. "An Accidental Hero: A Mostly True Wombat Story" a picture book told in the form of a newscast which skillfully balances the serious subject of forest fires with compassion and humor to help children navigate this important topic through the real events of 2020. I moved to Northern New Jersey in 2025 and am working on new projects.

6 thoughts on “Welcome Author Danielle Sharkan – Giveaway Alert

    1. Elizabeth, yes! So much of this amazing book is happening again. 💙
      I hope you saw my social media posts a few days ago when I shared your kind words about An Accidental Hero: A Mostly True Wombat Story in my #NationalFirePreventionMonth daily posts ☺️ Good luck in the giveaway

      Like

    1. It’s really a wonderful book with all of the strong feelings that are both timeless and timely. The illustrations are unique with a color palette that is magical. Good luck in the giveaway.

      Like

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