Halloween poems equally spooky and silly
Ever since I first read Shel Silverstein’s Where the Sidewalk Ends in third grade, I’ve written silly poems for silly people. I amassed quite a collection in the last 30 years, but a lack of gumption never led me down the traditional path to publishing. It wasn’t until a few years ago when I realized ‘Hey, I can do this myself !’, and published my first book, Old Brown Beard. I liken my self-publishing approach to craft beer – quality ingredients in small batches. I certainly think this is true for my new book, Werewolves, Witches & Weirdos.
Werewolves, Witches & Weirdos is a collection of 14 Halloween-themed poems. Halloween is one of my favourite holidays because it captures everything that’s great about being a kid – dressing up, eating candy and the thrill of getting a case of the creeps when you know it’s pretend. Kids and parents will get a kick out of these poems – from the challenges of trick or treating in the snow in “Chilloween”, to dealing with pesky underwear wolves in Drawer Monsters. Halloween can be both fun and unsettling for a kid, and I explore this in my poems in fun (and funny) ways for all to enjoy.
I’ve been fortunate to work with a lot of talented friends on both of my books. This one features awesome illustrations from Regina’s Zach Worton. Now in Toronto, Zach’s a critically acclaimed illustrator and musician. We’ve always wanted to work together and I’m thrilled that it was on this project – his style is perfect for the poems. Regina’s Corey McDonald designed Werewolves, Witches & Weirdos and married my words with Zach’s illustrations to create something really special.
I also wanted use the book to give back. $2 from every book will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) in Edmonton, a place my family called home for close to a year. The House was a lifeline for our family and is a destination for many Saskatchewan families getting care. I’m happy this book allows me to give back to the House and share what a wonderful place it is.
You can order Werewolves, Witches & Weirdos at BaikmanBooks.com or pick it up at Ragged Ass Barbers in Regina.