My latest project is called Star of the Week: A Story of Love, Adoption and Brownies with Sprinkles. It will be available from books stores (and online) on June 1. The book was written by my wife, Darlene Friedman (visit her web page!). It is our first collaboration and we are very excited to be working together. The story, which is about our family, is a very personal one. Here are a few reviews and testimonials. Click here to read more.

Roth’s vibrant illustrations capture the personality of Cassidy-Li, the six-year-old narrator who tells her story in unaffected language that will appeal to children. … The story has universal appeal, making it a good choice for a read-aloud.—School Library Journal

The pictures add character and a light touch to a story, which, while upbeat, deals forthrightly with the uncertainties of adoptees. Cassidy-Li’s thoughts and questions about her birth family will resonate with adopted children and serve as a springboard for discussion in homes and class rooms.—Booklist

A heartfelt collaboration in which Friedman and Roth draw upon their experience as adoptive parents.—Kirkus Reviews

Debuting author Friedman, who is also the wife of Roth (The American Story) and the parent of a Chinese daughter, doesn't try to smooth over the bittersweet elements of Cassidy Li's story. … Roth's affectionate domestic vignettes bolster the story's authenticity considerably, and his vivid portrayal of the confident, thoughtful Cassidy Li speaks volumes about the unconditional love in her life.—Publishers Weekly

Your book is already helping my clients. The gentle way it introduces questions of birthparents and heritage is great for that age range, so I am sure it will help some of the kids I see open up. This is the best new adoption book for kids that I have seen in a long time.—Dianne Kuchlak, Attachment Therapist

As a teacher of second graders for over 13 years, I know how difficult “Star of the Week” can be for some students. I believe the book will help open up the lines of communication for my son and others, as well as show how wonderful and special the “Star of the Week” experience can be!—Jennifer Jump

Star of the Week went in so deeply with both my girls. While I rarely write to authors, I just had to say thank you. … One of my daughters slept with her arms around the book last night and then we had another discussion about birth parents and forever families. I hope that Cassidy-Li will show up in some other books in the future. She’s a great little kid with such an authentic voice. Thanks for writing this and making this important contribution to all our daughters lives.—Liz McChesney

In the fall, another book I illustrated will be released by Viking Books for Children. It is called Voyage to the Pharos and is an adventure story about a lighthouse in ancient Greece.

Stay tuned for more details!