Rachelle is the author of the picture book TREE HOUSE IN A STORM (Stemmer House Publishers 2009). Her fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for children has appeared in national magazines such as Highlights, Scholastic Scope, and Pockets.
She provides AUTHOR VISITS and STORYTELLING programs to schools and libraries. She is also a popular children's ENTERTAINER, performing as Tickles the Clown and other characters for parties, schools, and other events.
Rachelle offers critique and editing services to children's writers, and maintains a comprehensive website of RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN'S WRITERS.
In a parallel universe, Rachelle is a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in crisis intervention, and a member of the East Brunswick Rescue Squad. |
Favorite Writers and Artists:
Children's Authors: I love Dan Greenburg's The Zack Files series for its incredible offbeat humor. I am in awe of Jack Gantos for his ability to so accurately and effectively get into the head of a child with ADHD, while portraying him with compassion, respect, and humor.
ARTISTS: Esref Armagan, blind painter, who shows the world that there are no limits to what one can achieve.
Current Projects:
My current project is a biography for children ages 9-12 titled Painting in the Dark: The Esref Armagan Story. Read about it at www.EsrefArmagan.blogspot.com
I am also expanding my Author Visit program to include Writing Workshops.
Interests:
Writing for children, entertaining children, adventure travel, gardening, caving, hiking, photography.
Family:
Married to the love of my life (Fred). Blessed with 2 daughters in college (Cara and Alana), a stepdaughter with special needs (Corrie).
University Affiliations:
Louisiana State University (BA)
Hebrew University of Jerusalem (junior year abroad)
Hunter College School of Social Work (MSW)
Contact Information:
Rachelleburk@gmail.com
www.Rachelleburk.com
Charities/Causes:
Memberships:
Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI)
New Jersey Red Cross
East Brunswick Rescue Squad (www.EBRS.org)
Safe Kids of Middlesex County
National Council of Alcohol and Drug Dependence (Middlesex County Chapter)
Red Nose Response (Charitable Clowning: www.RedNoseResponse.org)