Growing readers is my calling, writing books is my dream come true.

Bianca Schulze is the founder and editor of The Children's Book Review—a resource devoted to children's literature and literacy—and the host of The Growing Readers Podcast.

Bianca is also the author of DON'T WAKE THE DRAGON (translated into 20 languages), now a six-book series, and 101 BOOKS TO READ BEFORE YOU GROW UP (an Amazon Editors' pick for Best Nonfiction for Kids). A passionate advocate for children's literature, Bianca serves as the Webinar Coordinator for the SCBWI Rocky Mountain Chapter and is an active member of The Authors Guild.

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, Bianca now lives near Boulder, Colorado, with her husband and three children, where she continues to be a reader, reviewer, and devoted children's book lover.

See my published works

On Reading

I've learned many things from the thousands of books I've received for review consideration at The Children's Book Review. Most notably, I discovered that every book is not for every child, but for every child there is a book.

On Creativity

My desires to create, express and share are strong. Inspiration srtikes often as I'm drifting off to sleep. My three wild and wonderful children, along with my inner-child and my creative, encouraging husband inspire me deeply.

On Writing

Writing, to me, is a way to express, communicate, and make sense of the world. A way to turn emotions into words, sentences, paragraphs, and stories. I have notes and notes of ideas for new books. Now to find the time to fine-tune them all!

On Life

I dedicate much of my day to other authors looking to be seen and heard. When I'm not reading or writing, you can find me attempting a variety of mindful practices or trying to outspeed my husband on the ski hill or the go-kart track—ha!

Author Mentorship

Do you have a dream to be a children's book writer? Need a crituque of your manuscript? Do you already have a children's book out in the world? Are you on track to reach your book writing or book marketing goals? Bianca's here to help!

Published Works

Bianca Schulze's bestselling book DON'T WAKE THE DRAGON has captivated young readers worldwide, with translations available in 20 languages. Schulze's literary prowess extends to non-fiction as well, with her guide 101 BOOKS TO READ BEFORE YOU GROW UP earning recognition as an Amazon Editors' pick for Best Nonfiction for Kids. To explore these enchanting works and discover more about the author, click the images below or check your favorite bookstore.

Reviews

Read professional reviews and praise of Bianca's latest creative works.

Colorado Public Radio Logo. A New Friend for Dragon Book Cover.
Colorado Public Radio
December 2024

Can you really be friends with a dragon? Do princesses really need saving? A NEW FRIEND FOR DRAGON is the newest book in Bianca Schulze’s interactive Dragon series and is filled with the perfect amount of delight.—Marilyn Robbins, The Bookies Bookstore

TCBR and JBYD
The Children's Book Review
November 2021

“JUST BE YOURSELF, DRAGON is an exciting addition to the DRAGON series that is sure to become a family read-aloud favorite! ” —The Children’s Book Review

TCBR WLTD
The Children's Book Review
February 2021

With enchanting pictures and a captivating storyline, WHO LOVES THE DRAGON is sure to be your child’s new favorite book! Highly recommended. —The Children’s Book Review

Kirkus Review of Don't Wake the Dragon
Kirkus Reviews
April 2020

This rollicking interactive book will easily engage young children, who'll be eager to heed all the book's comical instructions before settling in for a peaceful night. — Kirkus Reviews

Carin Berger, Author and Illustrator
Carin Berger
Author and Illustrator

A rollicking good night story. I suspect there will be loud demands for this book! — Carin Berger, award-winning author-illustrator of 'The Little Yellow Leaf'

Trudy Ludwig
Trudy Ludwig
Author

A truly delightful and playful interactive story for any reluctant-to-sleep young reader! — Trudy Ludwig, bestselling author of The Invisible Boy

Fun Activities for Kids & Teachers

Make reading even more memorable with these engaging and educational resources.

The Children’s Book Review

The Children's Book Review, founded by Bianca Schulze in March 2008, began as a passion project before evolving into a respected professional review platform. The platform continues to play a crucial role in promoting and celebrating children's literature. For a wealth of reviews, articles, and industry insights, visit www.thechildrensbookreview.com.

Startup Dad Header Image

Bianca Talks with Adam Fishman on the Startup Dad Podcast

In an episode of the Startup Dad podcast titled The Ultimate Guide To Children’s Books | Bianca Schulze (Mom of 3, Author, Children’s […]

Matt de la Pena and Corinna Luyken Discuss Patchwork

Bianca Talks with Matt de la Peña and Corinna Luyken About Patchwork

If you love insightful, thoughtful books and deep conversations on life that fill your heart, then today’s episode of The Growing Readers Podcast […]

Bianca with Dr. Ibram X Kendi on How to Be an Antiracist

Bianca Talks with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi About How To Be An Antiracist

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, I talk with the incredible Dr. Ibram X. Kendi about his nonfiction book for caregivers, […]

Schedule a Visit

Bianca Schulze is available for virtual and in-person events. She visits schools, bookstores, libraries, and book clubs. One of her favorite things in the world is growing readers! She also speaks with parents, caregivers, educators, librarians, and fellow writers on a variety of topics. You can see a sampling of her offerings below, and she can also create a custom program to suit individual needs. All presentations are tailored specifically for the setting and audience.

Toddler & Preschool

• Meet an Author
• Interactive story-time
• Interactive sing-alongs
• Q&A
• Book signing

Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8

• Meet an Author
• Book reading
• Q&A
• Writing workshop
• For the love of reading discussion
• Book club discussions
• Book signing

Family Events

• Meet an Author
• Q&A
• For the love of reading discussion
• Family book club discussions
• Family story-time
• Book signing

Conference and Panels

• For the love of reading discussion
• Book Launch Marketing and Beyond
• Kids Books? I love talking about them!
• The Children's Book Review success story

A typical presentation includes a dynamic presentation, reading, and audience participation. Signed copies of Bianca's books can be ordered and delivered to your school or organization.

Schedule Your Event Here

Upcoming Events

Bianca looks forward to celebrating or joining you for the following events ...

Webinar Series: The Publishing Path

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Bianca Schulze. Molly Idle, and Juana Martinez-Neal
Hosted by SCBWI-RMC

Join Bianca Schulze in a curated conversation with two extraordinary talents in children's literature—where you get to ask the questions you've been burning to have answered! Caldecott honorees Molly Idle (Flora and the Flamingo, Witch Hazel) and Juana Martinez-Neal (Alma and How She Got Her Name, Fry Bread) will share their creative journeys and processes. This thoughtfully structured session will explore the bookmakers' personal and artistic paths, and will answer the questions you have that will help you design unique paths for your career, and yourself! Submit your questions in advance via Google form and be part of this intimate conversation with two of the industry's most celebrated author-illustrators.

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Bianca Schulze and Jo Knowles
Hosted by SCBWI-RMC

This workshop will explore the power of strong beginnings, whether in picture book, novel, memoir, or graphic novel format. How do authors hook the reader on the very first page? What kind of risks must they take in order to achieve a quick connection? We'll look at published texts with powerful, brave beginnings to study what makes them work. We'll also create new first pages to put what we've learned to the test! Get ready to be brave—and have fun! Bianca will be the webinar host for this session.

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Bianca Schulze and Rajani LaRocca
Hosted by SCBWI-RMC

The key to writing a successful book is to make it unique—to tell a story in a way that only you can. But how do you mine your own life and experiences for stories while still keeping them fresh? Newbery Honor and Walter Award-winning author Rajani LaRocca talks about her author journey and uses specific examples from her books to inspire people to dig deep and write their own stories. Bianca will be the webinar host for this session.

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Bianca Schulze and Karen A. Chase
Hosted by SCBWI-RMC

Every author needs an author-centered (not book-centered) marketing plan, regardless of how you publish, how many books you have, or in which genre. That plan also defines the tools necessary to build engagement through each subsequent book. In this class, we'll help participants understand brand and marketing plans, including a defined network/audience, a platform-tools list, and marketing outlets. We'll also discuss how to manage writing time versus marketing time. It's all to help you be the boss of your author career. Bianca will be the webinar host for this session.

Recent Fun Events

The Bookies Bookstore Logo
Bianca Schulze & 35+ Authors
Hosted by The Bookies

Give the gift of reading this holiday season!

The Bookies, in partnership with The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) Rocky Mtn Chapter, is hosting Storybook Wonderland: A Holiday Shopping Event.

Meet 35+ local authors and get signed copies from a selection of picture, middle-grade, and young adult books--perfect for holiday gifts! The event will also feature ongoing storytimes throughout the day as well as crafts, snacks, and giveaways. We look forward to seeing you there!

Address:
2085 S Holly St
Denver, CO 80222

SCBWI Rocky Mountain Chapter
Bianca Schulze
Hosted by SCBWI Rocky Mountain Chapter

The 2024 Letters & Lines Conference features a new schedule. Start planning now – this year there will be even more amazing options! Among other literary leaders, Bianca will be sharing the following two presentations: Make a Splash with Memorable Read-Aloud Events and The Power of Virtual Book Tours for Children’s Book Creators.

The Bookies Bookstore Logo
Bianca Schulze
Hosted by The Bookies

Join Bianca for a special storytime event at The Bookies! She's thrilled to share her newest book, A New Friend for Dragon, with young readers and their families. Bianca will read the story aloud, bringing the characters to life and inviting children into the wonderful world of Dragon and her new companion. This event is perfect for little ones and their caregivers who love a good tale. There is no need to sign up in advance—just come on by! It's a great chance to hear the story, ask questions, and get your copy signed. Don't miss out on the fun!

Address:
2085 S Holly St
Denver, CO 80222

Spell Books Logo
Bianca Schulze
Hosted by Spell Books

Join Bianca Schulze for story time at Spell Books. Littles and their caregivers are welcome into the shop to hear Bianca read aloud her newest book, A New Friend for Dragon. No registration is required. Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy a wonderful tale!

Address:
2376 W Main Street
Littleton, CO 80120

Jefferson county Library logo
Bianca Schulze
Hosted by Spell Books

Join the Belmar Library for an exciting literary event featuring talented Colorado authors, including Bianca Schulze! Meet and engage with authors from across Colorado as they discuss their work and answer questions about their books. This showcase offers a diverse range of genres, including: Memoirs, Mysteries, Paranormal fiction, Children's picture books, and much more! Take advantage of this opportunity to discover new stories and meet the amazing authors living in your backyard. There's sure to be something to delight every reader's taste!

Address:
555 S. Allison Parkway
Lakewood, CO 80226

Contact Bianca

Get in touch with Bianca Schulze here to discuss bookings for school visits, books signing, media opportunities, and more.

Let's Talk

Snail mail can be sent to:

2205 W. 136th Ave.
#106–105
Broomfield CO, 80023

Social Network

Bianca loves to socialize and makes appearances at retail locations, libraries, schools, and conferences. She also has a strong social network and following across Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and often speaks out in support of progressive concepts.

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