Remembering Paula

So many SCBWI members had met and loved Paula Danziger that we want to give you an opportunity to share your thoughts, memories, and feelings at this time. Please send your messages to RememberingPaula@scbwi.org -- feel free to attach any pictures or images of Paula that you have gathered over the years. We'll see that these recollections get passed on to her family.

We as a community of children's book professionals will miss Paula dearly, but sharing a moment like this reinforces more than ever that we are a family of kindred spirits, held together by shared love and goals.

Lin Oliver
Executive Director

Paula Danziger was my adored friend and cherished colleague. I have watched her at SCBWI events for over a decade--always circulating among the participants, listening to their stories, putting her arms around newcomers, looking out for undiscovered talent. She had a thirst for people and was, more than anyone I have ever known, a bottomless vessel of love. To be in her presence was to feel loved. My most ardent hope is that we, the SCBWI community, made her feel equally loved back, because Heaven knows, she deserved it.

We'll all remember Paula the Playful, with her flashing sequins and dangling jewelry and purple rhinestone sneakers. But the Paula inside that fun-loving flashy persona was also a deeply serious writer whose committment was to telling the truth to children, helping them embrace their true selves. That work goes on through her books. Although I'll miss her sparkling presence and loving ways, it gives me great solace to know that children will continue to hear her voice, telling them not to be afraid to be what they are.

Lin Oliver
Los Angeles, CA

I met Paula for the first time the year after The Cat Ate My Gymsuit was published, at a California School Librarians function in San Diego. Her conversation had me -- and the librarians at our table -- convulsed with laughter. And so it was -- at every event at which I saw her. And always, there were sequins -- on shoes, jackets, scarves. Paula once told me, "I never met a sequin I didn't like" and from that day on, I've never looked at a garment with sequins without thinking of Paula -- and it will always be so. But along with the sequins and the laughter, there was a generosity of spirit that glowed from inside Paula that was the most endearing quality she possessed. I'll miss her -- laughter, sequins and all.

Sue Alexander
Canoga Park, CA

Paula Danziger was such a treasure, I wish I could've gotten to know her better. I feel privileged to have had to opportunity to talk to her and attend conference workshops given by her. We've all been robbed of a great gift, at least we still have her books. Children will always have her books.

Angela L. Fox
Phoenix, AZ

No photo, but I wanted to share with Paula's family that when I taught junior high remedial English in Council Bluffs, Iowa, in the 80's, some of my students had never read an entire book. I bought books from the Scholastic book club to start a little library in the back of my classroom. Paula's book, The Cat Ate my Gymsuit, was one of the girls' favorites. Finally, a book that was funny and fun to read.

I taught school for 10 years, secretly inspired to do what Paula did. Imagine the thrill of selling picture book manuscripts to Putnam in the late 90's and then finding out that I was on the same list as Paula Danziger!

17 book sales later, I still haven't sold a novel. Last year my editor recommended the Amber Brown titles as models. She told me Paula did a picture book and thought it was very hard, exactly the way I feel about doing novels.

So you see, Paula was an early influence on my writing career. I will miss hearing about her and reading her new titles. My deepest sympathy to her family and friends.

Susan Middleton Elya
Danville, CA

Dear friends,

I attended Paula's workshop on "Webbing" at the SCBWI Conference in Miami. At first I thought it was about the Internet and was planning to avoid it, but then I learned it was a technique for developing a character, and I signed up.

Well, I used the technique that Paula described -- and how generous she was to share her professional secrets! -- and with it, outlined and then wrote a middle-grade novel which is currently at a NY agent. I ran into Paula again at the NYC SCBWI conference, told her that it was her workshop that helped me plan my book, and she expressed interest in finding out whether I sell it and said I should let her know.

When I heard about Paula's stroke, I wrote her a note about the book and said that she absolutely had to get well, so I could share the outcome with her. But unfortunately, she didn't make it. Still, I feel that the web of her life stretched very wide and included many people that her books entertained and her life and wisdom inspired.

With love and respect for a role model who was a shining example of the joy to be found in the field of children's literature.

Verna Safran
Sarasota, FL

When I taught 3rd grade at Mt. Sinai Elem School on Long Island, I read the first Amber Brown book aloud to my students. Shortly thereafter, Scholastic announced a contest in which the winner would receive a visit from Paula. Well, I was determined that my class would win! We brainstormed and researched and discovered that Paula REALLY liked shoes. So we fashioned our entry in the contest around shoes. We decorated a tennis show with glitter and sequins and told Paula that if she wanted to find the shoe's mate, she'd have to come to Mt. Sinai. We also wrote poems that convinced her that we were, indeed, that class that deserved to win the contest and have her come a spend the day with us.

When we got the call (from Paula, herself) saying that we'd won, you would have thought that we'd won the Nobel Peace Prize!!!! And when she came to spend the day with us and brought Amber Brown books and pizza (with potato chips!) and her charming with and wisdom...she won our admiration and friendship for life. I cannot tell you how sad I am to hear of her passing. She was an awesome woman and I am proud to have called her my friend.

Lynn (Dressman) Walker

P.S. Another amazing thing about Paula is this: One of the students in my class (the year that we won the Scholastic contest) was in a horrible car accident. Ashley was in a coma for quite some time and when I told Paula, she said, "Give me her address." Paula sent her all sorts of books and called her on the phone, and once she got out of the hospital, was totally terrific in helping Ashley get better and improve and come back to where she had been. Paula was simply the best. I know that Ashley's family will be so very sad when they hear that she is gone...

Paula was as generous and expansive and humorous as everyone says. But she was also sneaky and demanding. Who else would bring her own set of jacks to a conference and force two of us to sit on the floor and play with her. (Note to self: never play with anyone who brings their own jacks.) Who else would drag two friends through the sparkliest and tackiest shops in Key West. (Note to self: Buy glittery red shoes in her honor.) Who else would defeat an assault by remembering something Oprah said. She was my hero; she was my friend.

I honestly thought that her generous heart, being twice the size of any other human's, would carry her through. I honestly believed that her strong will would defeat her body's shut down. I truly wanted her to live forever.

Her books will. Her memory will.

I hold you in the Light, Paula.

Jane Yolen
Hatfield, MA

A few years ago, my friend Judy and I took a cruise with an author/illustrator group. What fun! Paula was at our table for dinner and we laughed all night. She sure loved life! Paula enjoyed it all: shopping, slot machines, sequins. I remember one night I had one some outrageous earrings and Paula commented on them. I took them off and gave them to her! I know Paula is having a wonderful time. Do you think she got God to give her sequined wings?

Eowana Jordan
Manassas, VA

Like so many of us, I knew Paula first through her books. Long before I became a writer myself, I read her books. Then I gave them to my children. Who gave them to their friends.

I went to a conference--my first ever--and she was one of the speakers. I'd "met" her in an online chatroom, but never in person. She moderated a panel of several authors and editors, and as the panel drew to a close, I snuck up to the front of the room and hovered at the sidelines. I knew we probably wouldn't have much of a conversation; it was a big conference, she'd be swamped by other admirers. But I wanted to at least say hello. In my head I'd rehearsed what I was going to say to her: "Hi Paula, you don't know me but we've met online--"

Then what? What did you say to a famous writer without sounding fatuous?

Paula began to descend the few steps from the speakers' platform. Not knowing who I was from Adam, she caught my eye as I waited at the bottom of the steps for her. "Come up here, dear, and help me," she said. I went up the stairs and gave her my arm, and she leaned on it as we came down together.

Did she really need my help? Well, it's true that those stairs were a little rickety. But I think Paula could have managed them herself. She saw me there, read my eager but hesitant expression, and asked for MY help. What quicker way could there have been to put me at ease--to put me at her level, quite literally?

That was Paula. A generosity toward others that shone brighter than those sequins she so loved.

I will miss the chance to get to know her better in person. How much greater the ache must be for those who knew her well. My best wishes to them, and to Paula's family.

Linda Sue Park
Rochester, NY

Paula and I first met in a restroom at the Century Plaza in Los Angeles at an SCBWI [Annual] Conference. She laughed when I told her I had typed most of an Amber Brown book into my computer to study her form and pacing. But that silly, little, accidental, encounter began a beautiful friendship. Later that week Paula gave me my very first SnackWell cookie. Okay, it was also my last, but I can never pass a SnackWell display without thinking of her. (May SnackWells live forever!)

Paula laughed when she called me and got my new answer machine message, “I’m sorry, but we do not answer our phone.” She laughed all through her message, too. “You HAVE GOT to USE that!” she said. “If you don’t, I will.” I saved that message for a very long time. And, when I do USE it, I will remember Paula and her joyous laughter.

We spent a great week together at Manhattanville College a few summers ago. After class was the best -- sitting in the library until closing -- playing computer card games and trying, with no success, to access a writers' chat room. Then sushi in the City, pink earmuffs, poring over Barfburger Baby, I Was Here First galleys, late night computer chats, and phone calls, and oh don’t forget the little glow in the dark earrings she gave me – purple – her favorite color – mine, too. (Well, at least for that day.) We had matching earrings. I always called her “Glitzy Girl!” Her earrings, rings, and necklaces; her scarves and boas, and beaded purses draped and hung all over her bedroom. These and her laughter and love all made up the Paula I knew, and are just some of the many “Paula” memories that I will cherish for always.

And so, saying good-bye to a friend is never easy. When it’s forever, it’s all so difficult. So I won’t say good-bye, Paula dear. Your fun-loving memory will be with me always. Our friendship wasn’t life-time, nor was it decades, (well almost) but the years that we called each other “friend” were very special, and to me those memories will always remain in my heart. I'll tell you again, "I love you, Sweetie."

With love, your friend,
Donna O'Donnell Figurski
Nutley, NJ

The building that my studio is located in has a store at street level called Tip Top Shoes. One day last year I was leaving work and was amazed when I saw, through the glass, Paula sitting in the store and basking in the glory of shoes and salesmen. There must have been at least a dozen styles she was considering! I thought about going in to say hello but didn't want to break the magic of that wonderful shoe shopping moment.

Warm regards,
Robert Sabuda
New York, NY

The picture of Paula was so heartbreaking real. That sparkle was there, that impishness. Can't you just imagine her as a little girl? What I remember about her most was that, even in a crowd, when she caught sight of me she'd push through with the warmest hug. I always felt so special. And I only think of her smiling. What a nice memory to leave behind.

Eve Bunting
Pasadena, CA

I didn't know Paula, but having read the many many responses on our list (SCBWI - Norca) of concern, love, and admiration caused me to be caught up in the day to day progress of Paula's illness. So many people cared so much that it was contagious. It speaks to the wonderful person who Paula must have been, the fabulous writer whose work inspired others to want to write, and to the group of people surrounding her, the other writers and members of SCBWI. I've really been stunned by the amount of care that has floated through the cyber air - what a wonderful legacy for us all.

Suzanne Morrone
San Jose, CA

Paula Danziger had a personality as big as her books. She loved speaking to kids and to writers, sharing anecdotes and jokes and inspiring us to do our best and to embrace life. While she delighted in her role as the grand dame of children's books, her thoughts were always with kids and all that they had to go through. Children never failed to move her.

Perhaps less well-known is how willing she was to mentor younger writers. About five years ago, I was lucky to have been one of those she took under her wing. From time to time, she would read my work and call or write me with suggestions. The critiquing continued even when I turned to nonfiction. The feedback wasn't just encouraging; it was helpful too. Paula had a grasp of the children's book market like few others.

In April, she spoke at the SCBWI-LA Writer's Day Conference and happened to see me win the contest in the nonfiction picture book category. Like a mother at a graduation ceremony, she told me how proud she was of me. It was the last time I saw her.

I will always remember one bit of advice she imparted in one of her speeches: make it special. To me, Paula Danziger will always be the personification of special. I miss her already.

Joseph Taylor
Los Angeles, CA

Just like so many people, Paula mispronounced my last name (de-POW la). "Forget it!" she said, when I corrected her. She obviously preferred her way! "Just think, if we got married," she quipped, "I'd be PAULA dePAULA!!" I gave up!!

Tomie dePaola
New London, NH

I'm not sure you can see it - but on her cheek are the initials SCBWI in rhinestones. I took the picture at the conference right after I had painstakingly applied them to her cheek for the soiree we had where everyone had to be glittery. She looks almost as beautiful in this shot as she really was...

Sonya Sones
Santa Monica, CA

In New York, shortly after [she was attacked] in a hotel, still wearing the battle scars, I asked Paula, Jane Yolen, Karen Hesse and Elizabeth Levy if I might take their picture for the SCBWI-Iowa newsletter. They are such successful authors and I was a Rookie Regional Advisor. Jane, Karen and Elizabeth accepted; Paula, of course, declined. So I got down on my knee in front of the three women--and Paula should have been there, too. Her work is equally admirable.

At every conference I've attended, whether she was a speaker or not, Paula has always been surrounded by admirers and friends. Her life and work will be forever celebrated, and it should be. She was an incredible woman.

Connie Heckert
Bettendorf, IA
SCBWI-Iowa Regional Advisor

I haven't missed an SCBWI [Annual Conference in LA] since 1990 and have had many conversations with Paula. I enjoyed her glittering clothes and sparkling humor. I've heard her talk on getting to know your characters by looking in their closet many times...and each time learned something new.

Because I'm always armed with a camera, I have many fun pictures of Paula (often with her pal Bruce Coville), like when they preformed a skit showing how they critiqued long distance on the phone (hilarious!) and when they teased about series books which Paula preferred to think of as "sequels." The first pictures I have of Paula was about 15 years ago when she played jacks on the lobby floor with authors including Jane Yolen, Patricia MacLachlan, and Betsy Byars at a SCBWI [Annual] conference. That was a hilarious moment and a crowd gathered, cameras flashing as if these fun-loving women were Hollywood stars...which they were to us.

In 2001 at SCBWI/LA I was impressed with Paula's wild, flashy rings. At the time I was working on a book with a rock theme and asked her if I could take a picture of her rings for inspiration. This is the picture that resulted.

Paula was a diva who sparkled with words, laughter and friends. Her laughter will live on with Amber, Skate, Kendra and her other characters.

Linda Singleton
Galt, CA

There are many ways to describe Paula--unique is certainly one. But devoted friend is what comes first to mind. There wasn't anything she wouldn't do for her friends, her fellow writers or for the SCBWI. No other group, though, was she more devoted to than children. I don't think she ever met a kid she didn't like, or couldn't relate to in some way. She was one of the world's greatest mothers. No doubt about it, Paula has raised a family of thousands who learned they were not alone, that they could laugh at their troubles, and that there was someone who cared. Fortunately, for all of us, she's unforgettable.

Stephen Mooser
Los Angeles, CA

Paula had a generous soul and a delightful sense of humor. My daughter Ruth, friend Rachel, and I attended the 2002 Texas Book Festival where Paula was a participant. Although she had several talks that weekend, we took Ruth to the panel she did with James Howe and Mary Pope and Will Osborne. Ruth was is an avid reader (currently seventh grade level), was in 2nd grade, and adored the three writers on the program.

We arrived early and without giving my companions time to dither where to sit I drug them to a front desk in the Senate chamber facing the main table which happened to have three chairs around it. Ruth easily settled in and touched all the buttons on the desk while Rachel and I sat there giddily anticipating seeing one of our all time favorite authors.

The authors strode in, Paula with a small entourage of helpers, and set up. I was telling Rachel, Ruth should get the autographs now while they were waiting to start and Rachel should also get her book autographed from Paula. Rachel was a bit shy about it as Paula is listed as her favorite YA author along with Cynthia Voight. But the three of us went up and Ruth had a marvelous time. Rachel and Ruth talked to Paula as I went back and talked with James Howe as he autographed Christmas books for Ruth. I did the same thing with the Osbornes as the three in the middle kept talking. Stuffing the goodies back in my backpack, I returned to find Rachel, Ruth, and Paula laughing.

Paula snuck Ruth an Amber Brown bookmark and said, "Shhhh! I don't have many of these left and they are only for the very special creative people." We talked about her jewelry and where she acquired each piece. Ruth was most impressed with the flowers pressed in glass from Hawaii. To our delight, Paula proved she was wearing purple socks. It occurred to us later as we walked around the capital lawn how odd it must have looked to the waiting audience as Paula threw her leg across the table and wiggled her toes at us. We felt bad about monopolizing her time but she didn't seem to mind as our conversation rounded out to include the other speakers and the children behind us.

Later in the program the moderator asked for questions. Adults kept asking questions about technique and the craft of writing. Ruth scribbled on my paper, "How do you ask a question?" I whispered back, "Raise your hand and he'll call on you." Ruth raised her hand and I believe it was Paula who first noticed Ruth as yet another adult asked a question. Soon Paula started a chorus which all the speakers contributed to of, "Ruth! Ruth has a question. Let's talk to Ruth. Yes, let's answer Ruth's question." Rachel and I were in stitches over their vocal proclamation of Ruth having a question because Ruth still had her hand raised as she had not yet been called upon by the moderator. Only when he said, "Ruth what's your question," did she put her hand down. She squirmed a bit and asked, "Is it hard to be a writer?" The answer was magical as the whole panel got involved in their discussion of writing from post-it-notes to plot-lines.

Paula made everyone laugh out loud. It was a magical morning as every time we saw her walking about the grounds with other kids, she would wave to Ruth and say, "Hi Ruth!" It will always be a special memory for us.
When Ruth went to school on Monday I stopped in at her library to do "important" volunteer work (shelving) and talk to Boone's librarian Jenny Day. Jenny's children attended Guillete Elementary which Paula had adopted a few years before. She told us about the many times Paula came to Austin and would visit the school and speak with the kids. One of Jenny's daughters is named Amber and always felt a special relationship with Paula because of the Amber Brown books.

Austin will morn the loss of a talented writer and gifted friend. She will be sorely missed across the town at a variety of different schools. I taught English for three years and whether it was Seventh Grade of Twelfth Grade, I always managed to find away to include parts of Paula's work because she is that instrumental in helping kids learn. Last year at Ruth's school I started to take copies of the library books with me to book signings. I think its important for kids to be able to checkout autographed books from the school library and be able to physically see a connection that a writer is also a real person. I am sorry to say that while Paula inspired the idea to have autographed books for the kids to check out, I did not acquire hers in time, but the others that I will acquire over the years will be because of her dedication to visiting local schools and the joy her writing brought to everyone around her.

M. Sara Hemenway
Austin, TX

I've had Paula on my mind for a whole month now and carry a deep sadness with me wherever I go. She was a friend and neighbor, a colleague and an example, and she was important to books and kids and funny as all getout and a major major part of the community I live in and she was only 59. I saw her humor, which was always up front and obvious, but I also saw her generosity, which was not as obvious, as she sat with a fellow writer, making him feel his value more deeply, or allaying some concern with her tender concern. I saw her go to battle to fight injustice and make children feel better about themselves. I'm angry that she's gone. I'm sad that she's gone. I'm scared because this world I know is so fragile.

It didn't take glitter to make Paula one of the Beautiful People.

Barbara Seuling
New York, NY

When The Cat Ate My Gymsuit was first published my daughter (now grown and a parent herself) read and loved it. That was the beginning. I can hardly write this as I still can't believe our bubbling, sparkling Paula is gone. Once, at the end of a conference a group of us were having lunch together and when I dipped my eyeglasses, which were dirty, into a glass of ice water, Paula was truly amazed. "I can't believe you did that!" she said. "In public! At a restaurant!" I explained that I wasn't drinking the water. "You have to promise to use that in a book," she told me. "Because if you don't, I will." I promised I would but to tell the truth, I never thought about it until now. So Paula, I promise that in my next book a character will plunge her glasses into ice water in public, at a restaurant! Like Jane Yolen, I was there playing jacks on the floor with Paula, and shopping with her in Key West's trashiest shops. She found purple shoes in about two minutes while I just watched and wondered how she did it. She was a wonder! She will be missed by so many.

Judy Blume
New York, NY

It was a brief encounter, but what an impact. I will never forget the wonderful, colorful, downright delightful person named Paula who shared her time and talents with my daughter Megan’s second grade class this past winter. While the children learned the art of scrapbooking and were treated to stories, Paula gleaned more insight on the activities and actions of seven and eight year olds. What a wonderful memory my daughter has of her time with Paula, and what a tragedy that Paula will not be here to share her vibrant personality and exuberant outlook on life with the next class of inquiring minds. I was so looking forward to her visiting again, for myself. Just being in her presence made me feel special. I’m not sure how to explain; I was around her probably 10 minutes, tops. But there you have it. A truly remarkable person who could turn the world on with her smile. She will be missed but she will live on in our hearts and through her words. And the angels will be wearing sequined shoes.

Michelle Smith
Austin, TX

From Megan: Dear Paula, you are a great person. I love your books. I wish you were alive to read my letter. I love you. I will think of you when I read a book. I love your attitude. I wish you could meet my brother. My class will miss you too. I will say you in my prayers. My family misses you too. I loved it when you did scrapbooks with us. I love your clothes. I'm glad they made this website for you. Love, Megan

I didn't know Paula but was lucky enough to spend an afternoon with her, Kathleen Duey, and a few other writers on a hunt through Century City Mall for glitter pens. Paula knew exactly the ones she needed and nothing else would suffice. I grew up in L.A., shopped at Century City frequently, know it better than I ever want to know any mall, yet searching with Paula Danziger turned it into a quest for truth and glitter. She was kind, she was generous, she was smart. She was an inspiration in how to live as well as how to write.

Ann Manheimer
El Cerrito, CA

Paula had the ability to make you feel as if she'd seen and talked to you just yesterday, even if it had been a year since you'd spoken. Friendly, nice, generous, kind, outgoing, intelligent, spontaneous, warm, sharing, caring -- for once there's no such thing as too many adjectives. She is missed by everyone. The world sparkles a little less, but heaven must be glowing.

Judy Enderle
Ventura, CA

I'll never forget getting to meet Paula for the first time last October at the SCBWI Mid-Atlantic Fall conference. Barbara Kanninen and I met her at the airport. She was so bubbly and full of life, cutting jokes, and giving us the "inside" scoop on things. She passionately talked about her writing, her friends, and showed us the galleys of the newest Amber Brown book which she was so proud to show.

What I truly will never forget was how interested she was in our writing. She wanted to give us her time to share her wisdom personally. She also wanted to know what we wanted her to say in her keynote speech. We told her a few things and miraculously, she wove them seamlessly into a funny and inspiring talk.

I also was so impressed with how she genuinely loved each and every person who asked her to sign one of her books. She took the time to ask about that person so she could truly write something original with her signature. It was in stark contrast to the other authors I've seen who looked as though signing was a boring chore, asking for names through thinned lips, and checking their watches as they sighed at the long lines. At that moment, I knew who I wanted to emulate--Paula Danziger--a true hero to children's literature.

She is missed already.

Pam Calvert
Del Rio, TX

One special memory I have of Paula is after the first SCBWI Mid-Year conference in NYC. She went to lunch with several RAs at the end of the conference and after we'd placed our orders, she reached into her bag and pulled out several pairs of long elbow-length gloves. They were all sequins and fringe and she passed them around the table for all of us to try on. She told us they were her award ceremony gloves and that she always wore them when she received a book award because they made her feel glamorous. She said that whenever any of us were going to be receiving an award for our writing we should write to her and she'd send a pair of her award ceremony gloves to borrow for the occasion.

I last saw Paula in October 2003 when she spoke at our Mid-Atlantic Fall Conference. It wasn't long after she had shoulder surgery and I know she was still in a lot of discomfort, but she was gracious and funny and wowed the attendees -- I'm sure nobody in the audience had any idea the effort it took to get through that day. Her strength and generosity in not wanting to disappoint fellow writers was astounding. She was truly a remarkable person.

Linda Wirkner
Yorktown, VA

Before I was a literary agent, I was a children's bookseller. Our store was bursting at the seams on the occasion of Paula's author visit to our store. Upon her arrival, one enthusiastic youngster raised his hand and blurted, "I thought you would be thinner." Without missing a beat, Paula replied, "So did I! But I have a great talent for cracking my bones! Wanna see?" At which point, Paula proceeded to crack various and sundry bones to the delighted squeals of her audience.

A great woman and writer who never lost touch with the child within. What more is there to say?

Rosemary Stimola
Edgewater, NJ

When I was in the fourth grade (I think it was the fourth grade - maybe it was the fifth), I wrote a book. It wasn't a novel or anything, but it got laminated and put in my elementary school library. I thought I had really made it big! Because I wrote the book, I was chosen to go to a reading conference at a local college. A big part of the conference was that we were going to get to hear Tomie dePaola speak. He was going to impart gobs of wisdom on us, the impressionable youth of the mid-80s, and turn us all into future famous writers.

Well, Tomie wasn't able to come and I was crushed. When I found out that Paula Danziger was there to take his place, I was skeptical. I'd only read one of her books, and, to be honest, I hadn't liked it all that much (It was The Cat Who Ate My Gymsuit - and it wasn't the typical Ramona Quimby fare I was used to).

Initially I didn't want to go hear Paula "sloppy seconds" Danziger talk. I felt betrayed by Tomie, and I was tired from a day of free cheeseburgers and writing exercises.

But, as a fourth-grader I didn't have any choice. I was going to hear Paula speak, because that's where the group was going and there was nothing I could do about it. So into the classroom I went. I sat cross-legged on the floor and picked at a scab on my knee.

Then Paula came in.... She was bigger than life: airy, with flowing clothes and a beaming smile.

She talked of what it was like to be a writer, how she knew she was going to be a writer from the time she was my age. She talked of writing her books and reaching out to children. She talked to us as if we were adults, without condescending at all. She acted like each and every one of us in that room had the potential - and maybe even the duty - to become a writer.

I was mesmerized.

When she was done speaking, each kid got an autographed copy of The Cat Who Ate My Gymsuit (and I swore I would read it again and try to like it). We got a chance to speak with her too. I felt kind of shy and didn't want to go talk to her, but my mom nudged me into doing it. I don't remember what Paula said to me, but she autographed a napkin, saying "Keep Writing, Kari. Love, Paula."

And I have. I've kept writing. I'm trying to get my first novel published as we speak.

As I grew older I didn't really think about that special day. But now that I look back, it was a wildly influential day in my life... one of those days that stands out in neon when you look back.

So if I get my book published, I think I'll dedicate it to Paula. It may be nearly two decades since I briefly spoke with her, but she influenced my life and my writing tremendously.

Kari Anne Roy
Austin, TX

Paula was a force of nature. I met her for the first time at last year's SCBWI Annual Conference in Los Angeles. She had written a wonderful blurb for my debut novel and I wanted to thank her, but was a little nervous. After all, she was PAULA DANZIGER. When I finally mustered the courage to go up to her and tell her who I was, she started screaming. I was completely unnerved because I was convinced I had done something to upset her. But before I could run, she reached out and gave me a big hug. Then we talked as if we were old friends.

Though Paula was a brilliant writer, the most memorable character she ever created was herself.

Lisa Yee
South Pasadena, CA

If you go to the Annual Conferences...you think Paula. I remember my first time there, not knowing what to expect. In a big crowded audience, feeling uncomfortable. Then, in came Paula! Red hair, scarfs, bangles, and glitter! More than appearance, the words she spoke at that conference endeared and excited me. I was ready to do it! To delve into the children's book field. I'm not a writer. I'm an illustrator. But she painted a picture that day with her exhuberance that gave me the encouragement to become my dreams! Thanks, Paula. Fly high dear girl.

Joy Allen
Cameron Park, CA

Whenever she entered a room, you knew it! She was full of smiles and laughter and stories, so many stories! One member of SCBWI Canada said it best, when she said, “We will miss her in our home.” You see, she truly touched people she never even met. Our home libraries are filled with Paula, and we will miss getting excited about adding one more Paula Danzinger story to our collection. Her spirit will live on in her words...and that spirit is strong.

Noreen Kruzich Violetta
SCBWI Canada (East) Regional Advisor

Paula came to the Florida SCBWI conference in January of 2003. Before she was even introduced, her magnanimous spirit filled the room. It is ironic that her heart failed her because she had one of the most generous of hearts that exuded love and acceptance to all she met. I will miss her.

Ruth Vander Zee
Miami, FL

I met Paula for the first time this year and had dinner with her at the SCBWI conference in Miami. But once was all it took for me to realize that I was in the presence of someone who put everything into living, without fear or apologies. I also realized right away that I wanted to live the same way. Thanks, Paula.

Gaby Triana
Miami, FL

Paula was a mentor and a friend. She was incredibly generous with her knowledge and advice ("just don't stalk me!"). We shared a somewhat offbeat sense of humor. When I told her the idea for my book, she said, "Sarah, you have a sick sense of humor - but I like that in a person." She also warned me the book would most likely be banned in several Southern states, but I shouldn't let that stop me from writing it! I always described Paula as my "writing mom" (she called herself "yenta") and feel bereft now she's gone. But my 11 year-old son said it best: "Mummy, you should keep writing because that's a good way to honor Paula." Don't worry, Paula - I will!

Sarah Darer Littman
Greenwich, CT

I met Paula Danziger on her birthday at last year's annual conference in Los Angeles. It was the end of the book-signing party, the end of the conference, the end of four intense days of total immersion in children's books, and Paula had just finished a call on her cell phone and was sitting at a table, momentarily (and uncharacteristically) alone. My friend and I wished her happy birthday as we were leaving the room. She immediately started chatting with us, in her open, disarming way. The passing birthday greeting turned into a rambling, funny, frank conversation about birthdays, friendship, and the writing life.

While I was lamenting the speedy approach of my fortieth birthday, she was utterly unfazed by her approaching sixtieth, since, she pointed out, by sixty you're finally settled in your own life and at ease with the way it fits you (unlike, we all agreed, the thoroughly-miserable twenties, which are spent angst-ridden about what you'll be when you grow up). She told a long, hilarious story about the beginnings of her friendship with Bruce Coville, which involved a southern conference, an auction, and a certain uniquely-hideous and therefore coveted lamp. Then she laughingly reminded us of another SCBWI conference we'd all attended where one of the participants had earnestly described writing a book with her dog. Not about her dog; with her dog.

Paula Danziger was not what I expected. For all the dazzling surfaces, she seemed a refreshingly genuine person: someone who didn't view her celebrity as an armor but as a point of connection. She valued her work. She valued her friends. She was kind to strangers. I'm sad that I won't have the chance to wish her a happy sixtieth.

Elise Broach
Easton, CT

Paula was Houston SCBWI's fairy godmother. She came to Houston twice, the second time at her request. She came bringing gifts — herself and her friends. As we planned the second event, we sat back and watched Paula make phone calls to people she wanted to have with her. One asked, "Is this one of those freebie things?" Indeed it was, if the person's normal fee was taken into account. One after another she lined up the faculty by simply assuring them, "You have to come to Houston. It's the best." We felt that was so, but it was Paula that made it happen. But she didn't stop there. She was attending a scrapbooking convention and snared a new friend into being on the faculty too. Paula's wide circle of friends, that outrageous sense of humor, and her passion for writing enriched our lives. Her smile shines even though our hearts ache.

Mary Wade
Houston, TX

Paula loved SCBWI so much. She taught me so much about giving back to the community of writers that she loved. She got so excited when a new author, nurtured through SCBWI, got a great review or wrote a wonderful book. I spend a lot of the month that Paula was in the hospital with her. As your letters came in, it gave all the nurses and doctors such a sense of how much she was loved. Many of us read your letters to her, and showed her the wonderful album that Lin had collected of pictures of her. Even though she wasn't conscious, I somehow believe your love seeped through. Now, the one thing she would ask of all us is continue helping each other -- laugh a lot -- but remember all the serious love that has to go into great friendships.

Elizabeth Levy
New York, NY

I couldn't wait to see Paula! Every year, sometimes twice, she would come to Gullett! To see me! After all, she was my biggest fan. I'm sure that Sheryl and Kay and Dylan and Cooper and on and on would disagree. She was their biggest fan. Paula made everybody feel that she came to Austin just to see them and the amazing work they were doing.

Last spring, she burst into my art room, Sheryl's second grade class in tow (she was teacher for the day) . She had them all shush as she gave me a test. What famous artist was she wearing on her toes? Thank God it was easy. I hemmed and hawed, pretending that it was not... Finally, with the class all in giggles, I named the icons on her feet! Edward Hopper's Night Hawks! She hadn't brought her Andy Warhol Soup Cans that trip in fear that I might "borrow" them. Paula was enthralled with the artworks being produced by "her" class. She had to know all, and equated the art making and creative writing process as having the same steps...how it's not just intuitive inspiration, sometimes hard work, always joyful! I can't believe Paula won't be here next year for First Thursday on South Congress, for Sushi, for Sheryl, for Gullett. We miss her.

Dottie Cartwright
Gullett Elementary School
Austin, TX

In 1996, a friend invited me to an SCBWI meeting in Holborn. It was a small one-room event with a special American author guest speaker - Paula Danziger. She talked about her Amber Brown books and how she had created a character that children all over the world could relate to. I remember leaving the room, thinking, "Wow! This group is really something. They are so open and so giving and willing to tell even beginning writers everything!" Very soon after this, I was invited to become Regional Advisor for the British Isles region.

I was lucky enough to hear Paula speak on a number of other occasions after that first meeting - at the SCBWI conferences in LA and NY - and even to have hosted her for an informal dinner with British Isles members in London a few years ago. We walked through Covent Garden before that dinner and Paula enthused over all the knick-knacks in the market and told me how much she admired both her editors in NY and London. She was always bubbling with enthusiasm and energy, and was the source of countless funny anecdotes that made even the most novice writers feel that they too could make it like she had. People like her are what make SCBWI what it is. Paula will be greatly missed by all of us, but the legacy of her books and her boundless character and enthusiasm will sustain all of us new writers for many years to come.

Natascha Biebow
SCBWI British Isles Regional Advisor

Paula was such a joy to me, and I truly looked forward to all of our encounters, whether we were planning to share a caviar lunch at Petrossian or speak together at an SCBWI conference. She made everything fun.

We traveled together to Woodstock one day last September, for the primary reason of making a surprise visit to an old Putnam colleague of ours, Audrey Cusson. Paula had orchestrated the trip weeks in advance, with the element of surprise being paramount, since I hadn't seen Audrey in about 4 years. The joy I saw in Paula's face when she realized she had pulled off the surprise was like watching a kid on a shopping spree in Toys R Us. We then celebrated by visiting her favorite jewelry store. And by the way, what a great day of sharing we had during that trip!

My other favorite memory was the last time I saw her awake and aware. It was in early May, and she was (typically) speaking to a group of young editors here at Penguin, as part of a course we were giving. I slipped into the room, quietly, in the middle of her presentation, and not wanting to interrupt, I stayed out of sight behind her. After several minutes, she slowly turned around, said "I felt you were back there, come up here and sit by me," and proceeded to give me a big hug and kiss. She then said to the editors "I just want you to know how much I love this man." I hope she knew how much the feeling was reciprocated.

Doug Whiteman
President, Penguin Books for Young Readers

I was touched by Paula in person. It was the annual LA conference of 2001, my first conference and to date, the best conference that I have ever attended. Paula gave a seminar on bringing your characters to life--or something like that. She was incredible. She kept saying "Oh, I probably shouldn't have said that" after she'd just told us some little secret about herself, another author or her old agent. The way she talked to us, it was like we were all her closest friends. She gave all of herself and had us laughing then thoughtful then laughing again. I still remember some of her advice: "what shoes do they have in their closet, what's their favorite word? what is it that they want most in the world and why can't they get it?" She knew how to get inside and bring life to a character. She was completely approachable too. I was nervous to talk to any of the other writers/agents but she made time to talk with me and made me feel like I might actually make it. She came and spoke with us here in Florida at our last conference and charmed us again with her stories and her humor--she said that little kids scared her, but you could tell that she related to them completely since she has a children's heart--something that you feel every time you read one of her wonderful stories.

I feel blessed to have been one of her students and will miss her. Thank you, Paula.

Sara L. Vinas
Broward, FL

Like many, I never knew Paula personally, but her books and charm have made a lasting impression on me. I read her books back in the 80's when I was a teen and enjoyed them but had forgotten about them as life took me down other roads. Then in May of this year, my editor at Enslow asked if I would like to write a biography for the Authors Teens Love series. I was to choose an author. When I saw Paula's name, my heart thumped a little faster. I did some research because it had been so long since I read Paula's work. The more I learned, the more I knew I had to write her biography. My summer reading list only included her novels -- nothing else. I was planning to meet with her for an interview but soon, I found out she was in the hospital. Still it never occurred to me that I wouldn't finally get to meet this wonderful person! Sadly, that wasn't to be. My editor asked me if I wanted to write about someone else, but how could I? I had felt a strong connection with her through her books, interviews, and friends. I also felt this book still needed to be written. The process so far has been enlightening and Paula has encouraged me to do more -- to be a better writer, a better person. Thank you, Paula!

Jennifer Reed
Darlington, MD

I had the wonderous experience (there really is no other wy to describe it) of spending a week with Paula at Mahattanville College Writer's Week a few years ago. A few of us from the class indulged Paula in her absolute need to go to the nearby Weschester Mall. After all, how could you be ten munutes from a mall and not go shopping. So shopping we went. Paula bought a fabulous, flowy "Paula" outfit and was so pleased she treated all of us in her little entourage to a pair of off-the-wall, CRAZY GLOW glow-in-the-dark dangle earings in our choice of color. Mine are Cool Blue and also came with a Free Tattoo! Weren't we something in class the next day! Shop forever, Paula. Westchester Mall and I will never be same!

Carol Boas
Wilton, CT

Gosh, I can't believe she's gone! I just really can't believe it. How could this have happened? I thought she was going to live forever. She had such a strong positive life force. She was the best role model. Without a doubt, everything I've done in my career as a librarian from pre-k school librarian to college library director, I owe to her.

Really, I got the inspiration of a lifetime just by once attending a presenation she gave must be 30 years ago or more at a public library branch in Baton Rouge Louisiana. I was awed by her super-charged zest for life and charmed by her childish sense of wonder, especially after all she'd been through in the previous few years. As a way of explaining the journey of how she became a children's author (I hope I get all these facts right after all these years), Paula told the audience that it all started with an automobile accident a few years before. At the time of the accident Paula was teaching middle school language arts. As she sat at a red light on the way to work one morning, Paula was rear-ended and sustained a whiplash injury that needed medical attention. Her mother came, picked her up and was taking Paula to the hospital when a speeding police car slammed into the women's automobile. I don't remember what happened to Paula's mother, but I know that Paula sustained serious head injuries. So serious were the injuries that Paula was told that she would probably never be able to read again. This prognosis was totally unacceptable to Paula Danziger. She absolutely refused to accept such a limitation. Reading was her life. It was everything. She rebelled by enrolling in a master's degree program in reading. Now, that's gutsy. She also wisely used the time away from her job as a teacher to sit down and write her first book.

Paula Danziger's body may have been weak and failed her and those who admired her, but her great spirit will live on in the legions of people, especially the children, that she touched in her lifetime and will touch in the future through her books.

Bonnie Bess Wood
Abita Springs, LA

I first met Paula at an International Reading Association convention in Atlanta, GA. I had gotten lost in the convention center looking for the luncheon that Paula was to speak at, and ended up in a back alleyway. Well, Paula had also gotten lost in the same alley, so we chatted and found our way out together. When the luncheon got under way, she spotted me in the very back of the large auditorium room and trotted off the stage, all the way to my table in the very back of the room, and proceeded to climb up on the table to speak! She didn't want us to have to look at her as a speck on the wall just because we had gotten lost! What a true lady!

Theresa Spragg
Sierra Vista, AZ