New Books Network Betsy Bird, "Pop! Goes the Nursery Rhyme" (Union Square Books, 2025)
May 18, 2025
Betsy Bird, the Collection Development Manager at Evanston Public Library and a former Youth Materials Specialist at the New York Public Library, dives into the enchanting world of nursery rhymes. She shares her creative journey behind her picture book, 'Pop! Goes the Nursery Rhyme,' and discusses the evolving role of librarians in children's literature. Betsy also reflects on humorous childhood anecdotes related to books, the magic of theatrical storytelling, and the importance of engaging young audiences. Her insights blend nostalgia with a fresh take on literary creativity.
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Creating "Pop! Goes the Nursery Rhyme"
- Betsy Bird created "Pop! Goes the Nursery Rhyme" inspired by her children's reaction to nursery rhymes being interrupted by "pop goes the weasel."
- Illustrator Andrea Tsurumi brought unique quirky elements, like Mary as a lamb and Little Miss Muffet as a bodybuilder, enhancing the book's wacky charm.
Secretary Bird as Narrator
- The secretary bird, an animal that kills snakes with its long legs, is the narrator in the book, chosen by illustrator Andrea Tsurumi.
- Betsy Bird finds the secretary bird's behavior fascinating and it fits perfectly as the strict orderly narrator opposing the chaos of the weasel.
Betsy Bird's Librarian Journey
- Betsy Bird was a born librarian who resisted the idea until she took a children's literature course and discovered her love for kids and the books.
- She worked in New York Public Library's children's sections, eventually becoming youth materials specialist, buying books and influencing kids' reading choices.
