Samantha R. Vamos is the author of Alphabet Boats, Alphabet Trains, Alphabet Trucks (illustrated by Ryan O'Rourke), The Cazuela That the Farm Maiden Stirred (illustrated by Rafael L pez) - 2012 Pura Belpre Illustration Honor - its companion book, The Pinata That The Farm Maiden Hung (illustrated by Sebasti Serra), and Before You Were Here, Mi Amor (2009, illustrated by Santiago Cohen). Samantha previously worked as an attorney, practicing in Washington, D.C. and Chicago, IL. Samantha was born in the Midwest, grew up on the east coast, and lived in the Pacific Northwest before moving to the Bay Area with her husband, son, and their rescue puppy, Bowie. Visit Samantha online at www.samanthavamos.com. For many years Ryan O'Rourke's illustrations have appeared in galleries, newspapers, and magazines, including a weekly illustration for the Boston Globe Sunday Magazine. One Big Rain marks Ryan's foray into children's picture books. He makes his home in Connecticut.
Pura Belpr Illustrator Award Honor Book (2012) Kirkus Reviews, STARRED review: A wonderful read-aloud, filled with merriment and conviviality. School Library Journal, STARRED review: The artistry of this book makes it a must buy for all libraries. Booklist: An excellent choice for interactive, multilingual read-alouds Scholastic Reading Club Selection Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People 2012 (NCSS) Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts 2012 (NCTE) NY Public Library's 2011 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing Fuse #8 Production's 100 Magnificent Children's Books of 2011 Selection Grand Canyon Reader Award Nominee (2014) Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominee (2012-2013) Read On Wisconsin (2011-2012) Latin Baby Book Club's Favorite Books (2011)