The Writing Barn Presents:
STUCK! The Story of La Brea Tar Pits with author Joyce Uglow
Join us on Saturday, March 8th @ 11am CT to celebrate the release of STUCK! The Story of La Brea Tar Pits, a new picture book written by Joyce Uglow and illustrated by Valerya Milovanova
There will be a reading, a discussion of the book’s journey, and a Q&A. Joyce will be joined in conversation by Writing Barn Founder and Creative Director Bethany Hegedus. Families, friends, librarians, readers—all are welcome!
While this is a FREE event, attendees are encouraged to order copies of STUCK! The Story of La Brea Tar Pits. Then, peruse the many online offerings The Writing Barn has for writers of all ages.
About the Book
For tens of thousands of years, animals and plants fell into the natural trap of what we now call La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles, California. Millions of fossils, from hundreds of species, have been collected in this one unique site. Author Joyce Uglow’s lyrical lines and Valerya Milovanova’s evocative illustrations guide readers into an entire ecosystem of plants and animals―stuck!
Reviews for STUCK! The Story of La Brea Tar Pits:
“Playful language and masterful illustrations make for a compelling read instead of a dry scientific tale…This stirring story and its dynamic illustrations may manage to enthrall even the least nature-focused kiddo.”―The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Using lyrical, minimal text and extensive science details, interactive animal dynamics come alive. A recurring theme is the hope of escape, portrayed by a dragonfly, hinted at in early pages but celebrated on the final double spread. Back matter provides clarity about the timing and processes, with examples of fossil types and further text/timeline. The enticement is priceless, and the payoff does not disappoint.” —Sandy Brehl, children’s book author and blogger
“This is an amazing story that was so informative and amazing. I knew nothing about all the various species of animals stuck in the pits but also the history and the fact that they are still trapping animals. It is a must for any classroom.” ―Deb Buschman, children’s book author and SCBWI Wisconsin Regional Advisor
About the Author
Joyce P. Uglow has been asking questions and collecting words since an early age. Retired, she now writes picture books and poetry for children who are also intrigued by words and our wondrous world, books that educators, librarians, and kids tell each other about. She currently serves as SCBWI Wisconsin’s Assistant Regional Advisor and was a 2024 round one judge for the CYBILS poetry awards. She digs in on topics from whales, rocks, bees, trees, and families to ancient cave art and fossils trapped in asphalt seeps and everything in between. She is unwaveringly committed to sparking kids’ interests. Preorder Joyce’s lyrical nonfiction picture book, STUCK! The Story of the La Brea Tar Pits today.