March
Honoring Three Creative Voices
This March we celebrate three landmark women in children’s literature and art. Enjoy a downloadable coloring page featuring a little girl inspired by beloved author Eloise Greenfield, a bird and tree in tribute to award-winning illustrator Diane Dillon, and a bright sunflower honoring artist Faith Ringgold.
In honor of Women’s History Month, I chose three creatives whose work inspired me as a child, educator, and aspiring artist.
As a former kindergarten teacher, these artists shaped the stories I shared and the way I learned to see art and imagination.
Eloise Greenfield — Her book Honey, I Love has long been one of my favorite poetry collections. This coloring page pairs a sketch of Greenfield with a little girl with afro puffs as a nod to the childlike voice and joyful, rhythmic character who carries those poems. Greenfield’s warmth, clarity, and celebration of everyday Black childhood feel like a sweet, steady heartbeat for young readers.
Diane and Leo Dillon — As a child I adored Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears. Diane Dillon’s illustrations (often created with her husband Leo) brought folktale drama to life with lush texture and expressive figures. Including Diane honors that early wonder and the visual storytelling that made the tale unforgettable.
Faith Ringgold — I read Tar Beach in my kindergarten class, but only recently did I fully appreciate Ringgold’s artistic brilliance and political courage. Her bold colors, storytelling quilts, and recurring sunflower imagery speak to resilience, memory, and hope. Ringgold’s work inspires a vibrant, unapologetic celebration of Black life.
Eloise Greenfield — A celebrated children’s author who captured the joy, resilience, and everyday life of Black children in poetry and stories.
Diane Dillon — A distinguished illustrator known for rich, lyrical images often featuring nature and whimsical details.
Faith Ringgold — An artist and storyteller whose bold colors and quilts celebrate community, history, and empowerment.
This March we celebrate three landmark women in children’s literature and art. Enjoy a downloadable coloring page featuring a little girl inspired by beloved author Eloise Greenfield, a bird and tree in tribute to award-winning illustrator Diane Dillon, and a bright sunflower honoring artist Faith Ringgold.
