ABOUT

Cathrene Valente Youngquist is a former elementary educator and author of the picture book The Three Billygoats Gruff and Mean Calypso Joe, published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers. She has two YA/Adult poetry books to her credit: Island, Vignettes from Paradise and Caribbean Smiles and is an active member of SCBWI and CPS (Connecticut Poetry Society). Additional poetry by Cathrene has been included in two anthologies: In the Shadow of Sleeping Giant and Craft Verses Inspiration. She has been honored as a recipient of the Western Connecticut State University Centennial Award in recognition of outstanding contributions to society and was also awarded several arts grants to promote art and literacy in inner city classrooms. Currently residing in Connecticut, Cathrene continues to promote literacy through her performance-based book readings, accompanied by stuffed characters, music, and dance. Her pen is always at the ready! When she isn’t imagining new stories, Cathrene enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren.