MY BLOG
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- Classroom experiences 9
- Cultural reflections 9
- Multicultural literature 8
- Behind-the-book stories 6
- Book recommendations 6
- Discussion guide 4
- English learner resources 4
- Literacy reflections 4
- Either the Beginning or the End of the World 3
- Joseph's Big Ride 2
- Literary process 2
- Author interviews 1
- Collaboration essays 1
- Go Home 1
- Reflections on storytelling 1
- The Cat Who Liked Potato Soup 1
- The Good Braider 1
Reading with dads in prison
A sign at the Concord State Prison’s Family Connections Center reads , “Be a dad. Be there.” This is a story about books as a link between kids and their parent who’s incarcerated.
Writing a picture book
What makes a picture book story come alive? In this reflection on the craft of writing for children, Terry Farish explores the power of language, images, and emotion in creating meaningful stories for young readers. Drawing from examples across the picture book world, she shares insights into the elements that help a story connect and inspire.
How I became a children’s book writer
I had the great privilege of studying with the British Carnegie Medal winner, Jan Mark. Here’s an appreciation of the craft, and large-heartedness of this extraordinary children’s novelist. Every day I wish I could talk with her again.
‘Hard Love’ story: Interview with VOA Cambodia
When Terry was interviewed by Voice of America Cambodia about “Either the Beginning or the End of the World,” the conversation turned personal. Her novel is about a mother and daughter who love each other but struggle to tolerate each other—the “hard love” shaped by a mother’s survival of the Khmer Rouge.
‘Soldiers Home and Away’ features ‘Either the Beginning or the End of the World’
For fourteen years, America had been mired in war, creating a cultural gulf between military and civilian communities. Through New Hampshire Humanities’ “Soldiers Home and Away” project, “Either the Beginning or the End of the World” became part of a conversation about soldiers coming home, traumatic brain injury, families, and understanding.
Researching to write: ‘Either the Beginning or the End of the World’
Music, folktales, interviews, books, and conversations all became part of Terry’s research for “Either the Beginning or the End of the World.” Her journey into Cambodian history and culture was ultimately about more than war. She wanted to understand what happens afterward—the stories of people living after surviving, and the impact of memory across generations.