Staff Reviews
Check back for fun and interesting book reviews from our BookKids Staff! Here's some info about our team.
Meghan Dietsche Goel: Children's Book Buyer
With her background in children's publishing, Meghan has found buying for BookKids to be a tremendous amount of fun. In the broader, herculean task of generally overseeing this department of misfits, Meghan has occasionally been called "bossy," but it's almost always meant affectionately.
Topher Bradfield: Children's Outreach Coordinator and Literary Camp Director
Sometimes described as the Pied Piper of BookPeople, Topher goes out into the schools every week to get kids excited about our favorite new books. He also came up with the brilliant idea of bringing books to life within a summer camp setting -- an idea that has led to our renowned literary camp program that draws readers from all over the country and even the world.
Click Here for Camp Information
Mandy Brooks: Children's Events Coordinator
With her background in both marketing and child care, Mandy has been the perfect person to bring our many kids events to life. With her infectious good nature and her knack for collecting all the gossip, she could also be considered the heart of BookKids.
Merrilee Wilkerson: Picture Book Maven
She's boisterous (loud), she's experienced (sort of old), she's tall (useful for hanging signage), and knows everything there is to know about picture books! She also tells the best jokes, can juggle like a pro, is a storytime superstar, and is willing to dye her hair to match upcoming events. Who could ask for anything more?
Madeline Smoot: Novel Expert
SMOOT SMOOT SMOOT! Yes, it's fun to say. And Madeline's just as fun to have around! As the owner of an up-and-coming children's publishing house herself, she's an expert on children's novels of all kinds. Ever full of ideas, she's always got something new up her sleeve, whether a great display idea for the store or an innovative book line for her company, CBAY Books.
Kathleen Allen: Nonfiction Guru
As a former librarian, Kathleen is our ace in the hole when it comes to knowing about great nonfiction books. Seriously, ask her anything! She also keeps us all happy with periodic deliveries of home-baked delights. But be sure to behave while you're here, because Kathleen's never afraid to break out the mom voice.
Leela Martin: All-Around Enthusiast
The newest addition to the BookKids team, Leela has made herself invaluable with her positive energy and enthusiasm for everything we do. Always happy to pitch in, Leela can often be seen making creative displays, helping run our events, and hand-selling all kinds of books with a smile.
