We had the good fortune of connecting with Nell Cross Beckerman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nell Cross, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
Both my parents exposed me to so much when I was growing up. We traveled extensively, went to tons of museums and shows, had all kinds of adventures in nature. I did this for my kids as well, taking them all over the place and exposing them to all different types of culture. I hope it has helped them experience life and its possibilities outside of their bubble.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think what sets my books apart from others is that I blend lyrical, poetic writing on the subject of nature and the outdoors–but I make sure to ALSO make it kid-friendly. Making wishes on dandelions, getting excited for cotton candy at the Santa Monica pier, following a bunny on a hiking path…it’s important to hook kids in before you start talking about the creatures in the intertidal zone.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This is easy since it is the subject of my book, FROM PARK TO PLAYA: THE TRAILS THAT CONNECT US: I would take them on a little tour of downtown Culver City, with stops in Citizens Market, the Culver Hotel, and Village Well bookstore. Then we would continue down Duquesne Ave toward the park, hike up the wooden ramps on the Park to Playa trail, and go all the way to the top of Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. The view is amazing, everything from the Hollywood sign, to the Sony Studios Rainbow, to the Ocean (this view is featured in my book!) We would enjoy the beautiful sunset, then walk back down and get dinner in any of the great Culver City restaurants.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My critique group and other local children’s authors make up the most wonderfully supportive community I could ever ask for. Writing is famously very solitary, but my critique group makes it a communal experience.

Website: www.NellCrossBeckerman.com

Instagram: @NellCrossBeckerman

Twitter: @NellBeckerman

Facebook: @AuthorNellCrossBeckerman

Image Credits
Illustration by Sophie Diao

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