The Spider Lady: Nan Songer and Her Arachnid WWII Army is getting significant love!
Before I share about that, I want to give a shout-out to those who worked along with me to help this book become a book!
I proudly share this book with
What talent! Her gorgeous illustrations draw readers into the life of Nan Songer, clarify Nan’s research and add historical context, making the story a truly immersive experience.
More talented people who helped make this book the best it could be.
The rounds of feedback from my critique group were unbelievably helpful as I worked on my first nonfiction book.
My agent is a cheerleader for my work! She believes in me and loves what I create. Always!
I shared about my editor, Carolyn Yoder, in my last newsletter! She knew how to get the best out of me and was a joy to work with.
The rest of publishing team was a huge help and so supportive. When it came to spreading the word about The Spider Lady, they reached out to national reviewers, media outlets, booksellers, libraries and schools, along with key librarians and teachers that have large followings in the book world. Their followers can count on these key people to share books that they believe belong in the hands of readers. Since Calkins Creek, an imprint of Astra Publishing House, is respected and well-known, their reach is wide and influential. They get results! Without them, I wouldn’t have book love to share.
Also, in my last newsletter I shared my appreciation for spider expert, Dr. Rayor. Her help and expertise were invaluable.
And now . . .
The Spider Lady: Nan Songer and Her Arachnid WWII Army made Colby Sharp’s list of Awesome 2025 Books!
“An intriguing snapshot of the intersection of human invention and the natural world, perfect for STEM collections.” — Booklist
“With a palette plucked from nature, this educational picture book spins the tale of an unsung hero of WWII.” —Foreword Reviews
“A self-taught scientist rose to the challenge when World War II increased demand for spider silk. Klostermann’s brief, engrossing text eschews typical biographical information (Nan’s birthplace, education), focusing instead on her subject’s fascinating work. Lambelet’s meticulously detailed sepia and teal art vividly depicts Nan in pursuit of her passionate vocation. Weaves an impressive story of arachnid accomplishment.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Who would have imagined that silk from spiders was needed to help win World War II? The Spider Lady: Nan Songer and Her Arachnid WWII Army . . . loved bugs and filled her home with them. A friend mentioned using spider silk to repair a scope, and a business was launched. Using scientific methods, she found a way to produce the needed silk for instruments of war. The precise steps are carefully delineated, and the illustrations bring the process to life.” — Denton Chronicle by Dr. Jean Greenlaw, Regents Professor Emeritus at the University of North Texas
That’s a lotta love and I’m grateful for all of it!
Now less than a month away!
Tuesday, May 6th, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Texas Star Trading Co.
174 Cypress St.
Abilene, TX
Links to preorder from other booksellers can be found here.
Until next time …
Penny
Congratulations!! Can't wait to read it.
I’m so excited for you Penny.