A Matter of Rhyme
Sheri Wall’s children’s books make reading fun
By AMY ROGNLIE | Photo courtesy of SHERI WALL
“Sheri Wall is a lover of rhyme who has lived in Texas for a really long time. She would read to her sons and kids that she knew, and they all enjoyed rhyming picture books too.”
And thus began Killeen author Sheri Wall’s writing career.
“When I homeschooled my sons, I wrote stories and poems along with them,” Wall said. “Years later, as an empty-nester, my husband encouraged me to use my creative energy, take the first poem I’d written, and turn it into a book. That was so fun I repeated the process and established my brand, A Matter of Rhyme.”
Since her very first book, “An Omelet for Evan,” Wall has gone on to publish 13 more books for children. Her books are wonderful as read-alouds from birth and for self-readers through about fourth grade, although some books are simpler than others. Readers enjoy Wall’s books because their lyrical qualities make them fun and engaging, and the subject matters are relatable, with many of them inspired by friends and family. Her endearing “Silly Milly” collection is based on niece Erin’s Great Dane, Milly, and provides lots of smiles as Milly’s big-dog antics are told in clever rhymes and laugh-out-loud illustrations.
“Maiden Mermaid” is about Sirena, the mermaid who has captured Central Texans’ hearts for years. In this captivating 75-year-old Texas family folktale, originally told to Salado sculptor Troy Kelley as a child, Wall lyrically weaves the story of a Native American maiden named Sirena who makes a deal with a talking catfish to win her heart’s desire. Timeless lessons of being patient, trusting carefully, and making wise choices flow just below the surface of this beautifully illustrated book. Based on the inspiration for “Sirena the Mermaid,” Kelley’s renowned bronze sculpture in Salado, this lovely retelling of a beloved local story is sure to please.
Wall has also written some nonfiction books that have been well-received by the community. “Our Pledge, Our Promise” explains our nation’s Pledge of Allegiance line by line in child-friendly terms and, of course, Wall’s inviting, rhyming prose. Schools and VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) posts across the nation have been thrilled to use this book, and Wall is hard at work on a companion book on the idea of honor and what it means to be honorable. She has also penned a Thanksgiving book for children entitled “I Am Thankful: A Thanksgiving Book for Kids.” This book was published by Rockridge Press and recently rose to number 32 on Amazon’s best-sellers list during its seasonal sales window.
Besides Wall’s witty rhymes, her readers love the unique style of illustrations.
“I get a lot of positive feedback on the unique illustrators I’ve chosen and the extras like recipes and fun facts included in many of the books,” Wall said.
Two of her books are illustrated by Bell County’s own Gary Manly, while others are illustrated by artists from Poland and The Netherlands.
“My children’s books are thoughtfully written to help children learn and become excellent readers,” Wall said. “They are colorful and entertaining and have lessons and teachable moments woven throughout. I know rhyming and repetition assist in children’s brain development, and I’ve seen them work firsthand.”
Downloadable activities and even some musical versions of her books are available on her website. Wall also offers classroom visits and enjoys encouraging other authors and sharing her perspectives and thoughts on their work. In addition, she offers editing services for authors and is available to speak at special events.
LEARN MORE
Website: amatterofrhyme.com
Facebook: A Matter of Rhyme Children’s Books
Instagram: Sheri Wall (@sheri.amatterofrhyme)
