Erica S. Perl
Picture books · early readers · chapter books · middle grade · humor · friendship stories · fractured fairy tales · realistic fiction · non-fiction · Jewish · inter-generational stories

Erica S. Perl

Bestselling, award-winning author-illustrator of more than 45 books

K–23–56–8📍 In-person💻 VirtualTitle I ratesFree virtual Q&A✓ Published & vetted
Based in
Washington, DC & Southold, NY
Local zone
30 mi · no travel fee
Featured books
10
🌐 Website📷 Instagram @ericaperl👍 Facebook🎵 TikTok @ericaperl

About Erica

I write middle grade novels, picture books, chapter books, early readers, and more. My books have received awards and accolades, including the National Jewish Book Award, and three Sydney Taylor Medals (one silver, two bronze). They've also landed on the New York Times Best Sellers list, as well as multiple State Book Award and “Best Books” lists. I’ve taught at MFA writing programs for years (currently on faculty at the University of San Francisco). I also love visiting schools and talking with kids about writing and drawing. My author visits are educational, engaging, and empowering. This may be because I have a theater background, a law degree, and an ice cream truck driver's license. My goal is to demystify the creative process, provide strategies, and get kids excited about sharing their stories.


Books

The Three Little Guinea Pigs
The Three Little Guinea Pigs
Macmillan (FSG BFYR)
Find it at Bookshop.org
Arnold and Louise: The Magic Chicken
Arnold and Louise: The Magic Chicken
Penguin, 2027
Find it at Bookshop.org
The Unfriendship Bracelet (writing as "Martha Maker")
The Unfriendship Bracelet (writing as "Martha Maker")
Simon & Schuster, 2018
Find it at Bookshop.org
White Bird: A Novel
White Bird: A Novel
Knopf, 2023
Find it at Bookshop.org
Billy the Kid Makes it Big
Billy the Kid Makes it Big
Penguin, 2023
Find it at Bookshop.org
When Carrot Met Cookie
When Carrot Met Cookie
Penguin, 2021
Find it at Bookshop.org
Whale and the Birthday Rocks
Whale and the Birthday Rocks
Simon & Schuster, 2025
Find it at Bookshop.org
Truth or Lie: Sharks!
Truth or Lie: Sharks!
Random House, 2019
Find it at Bookshop.org
When Life Gives You O.J.
When Life Gives You O.J.
Knopf, 2013
Find it at Bookshop.org
Goatilocks and the Three Bears
Goatilocks and the Three Bears
Simon & Schuster, 2014
Find it at Bookshop.org

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What educators say

“Erica is one-of-a-kind. She is a dynamic speaker and fantastic facilitator. She is a professional whether she is speaking to a group of children or a group of adults. Love, love, love Erica and would highly recommend her to speak anytime!”

— Dawn M. Little, Montgomery County Public Schools, MD

“Erica is a brilliant presenter. She inspired students to embrace writing and reading. She provided a gift that will continue to give!”

— Marion Hake, Palm Beach County Schools, FL

“Erica Perl mesmerized the students with her kind, sincere, attentive and wise commentary. It was an utter pleasure to have her with us, and I cannot wait for the next time!”

— Rick Woler, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Visit formats

📍
In-person
School visit
✓ No travel fee within 30 mi of Washington, DC or Southold, NY. Beyond that, travel is arranged together.
💻
Virtual
Virtual visit
✓ No travel — connect from anywhere. Often the most budget-friendly option.
🎁
Free
Virtual Q&A
✓ Free for classrooms that have read at least one of Erica's books.

What a visit includes

A typical full day in-person visit includes: * three 45-50 minute presentations (to groups of any size, though groups that can fit in a library setting are ideal) * presentations include an interactive read-aloud, my journey and creative process, revision strategies, Q & A, and (optional) drawing. * small group lunch with the author (optional) * book-signing, often in partnership with a local independent bookseller (optional) Multiple day, half-day (two presentations) and single presentations, as well as virtual visits can also be arranged.

Pricing & availability

Fees vary by format, travel, and your school's needs. Reach out directly for a quote and open dates.

✦ Discounted rates available for Title I schools
🎁 Free virtual Q&A for classes that have read a book
Grade levelsK–2, 3–5, 6–8
Local zoneNo travel fee within 30 mi
LanguagesEnglish
Request Pricing & Availability →
✓ Published & vetted by our team

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