First Print Run Sold Out!

Alphabet Soup!

A whimsical collec...

By Michelle Ciarlo-Hayes

Book Preview

The entire first major print run of "Alphabet Soup!" (both hard and soft cover) has sold out, but you can still order your individual copies directly from the publisher. Thank you so much to all the wonderful customers who have made this book such a success: I hope your little ones are enjoying learning their letters!

"Alphabet Soup for Cross Stitchers" Gallery Complete!

I'm so excited to announce that the entire collection of cross stitch artistry is complete and will soon be available as a coffee table book. Until then, you can see the entire alphabet here!

Story Behind the Picture: V is for Valentine

While the story of the original series can be read here, "Alphabet Soup" is still a work in progress as I search to complete the perfect series for both boys and girls. One such search was for another letter "V."

Danny: "But I love the van."
Me: "I know, sweetie, me too. But a little girl named Vanessa might not. Or her mommy, who is buying the print for her room, might not.
Danny: "Well, that's just silly. Who doesn't love vans?"

I happened to be in the basement later that afternoon, looking for something on an entirely different subject, when I rediscovered my great-grandmother's sewing basket. I lifted the woven lid and saw this pincushion sitting quietly amidst the wooden darning egg (which I still don't understand how to use), a myriad of beautiful buttons, and a jumble of colorful wooden spools. I hadn't remembered this little stuffed heart, but I knew I found my new "V."

I took out all the pins with their colorful glass tops and brought it upstairs to my studio. Danny watched me quietly as I worked.
Danny: "I still like the van."
Me: "I know, sweetie, and that's the one that will stay in the book. But do you like this one as well?"

He walked over and picked it up, examining it in the light. I wondered when my great-grandmother made it, and imagined her smiling as she watched my child holding it in his hands.
"I do like it," he finally decided, a sweet smile spreading across his face as he spoke.

Interview with the Children's Author Show

I was so honored that Don, the host of the Children's Author Show, took the time to speak with me about "Alphabet Soup!" Click above to listen to our chat.

Interview with the Children's Author Show

Don McCauley, host of the Children's Author Show, was so kind to interview me about "Alphabet Soup!"

My segment ran from December 23rd - December 24th. Thanks so much for all who took a moment to tune in!

Story Behind the Picture: B is for Ballet

Each week I share a different "story behind the picture" on my artist blog. To read more about "B is for Ballet," please click here.

Happy holidays!

"Alphabet Soup!" Featured on My Shopping Connection

It's a rainy Thursday morning here in Philly, but I just received an email that brightened the day! The editors of My Shopping Connection have selected "Alphabet Soup!" for their "50 Under 50" holiday gift guide. Click here to see all 50 fantastic finds!

Just a reminder that shipping is free at Blurb through the 24th of November, so order your copy of "Alphabet Soup!" today.