Vivian Vande Velde is an American author who writes books primarily aimed at young adults. Her novels and short story collections usually have some element of horror or fantasy, but are primarily humorous. Her book Never Trust a Dead Man (1999) received the 2000 Edgar Award for Best Young Adult Novel. 

She says that she really likes to write for children. She likes to do school talks to children. She does many book conventions and also gives writing classes. She currently resides in Rochester, New York.

vivianvandevelde.com

Every student in our building was given a copy of 8 Class Pets + 1 Squirrel ÷ 1 Dog = CHAOS on March 3rd! We're looking forward to reading this book together! 

"The benefits of reading aloud are remarkable. Studies have shown that reading to children helps them to listen better and longer, to build bigger vocabularies, to understand concepts better, to feel positive about both books and learning – and much more.

When an entire school reads the same book, the buzz and excitement around the book augments these benefits. Reading a book together brings the added joy of building and expanding a sense of community among students, parents, teachers, and staff – and beyond. In some schools, bus drivers and custodial and cafeteria staff clamor to be included. And when a library or church or community group or commercial donor becomes involved, that sense of fostered community is exponential."

readtothem.org