News Flash: Billy the Kid Dances His Heart Out (my third book with Dolly Parton, illustrated by Mackenzie Hailey) is available now! As is Whale and the Birthday Rocks, illustrated by Sam Ailey. Books make great gifts, and if you’d like a signed bookplate, I can send it to you in the continental US.

Hi, I'm Erica.

I write middle grade novels, picture books, chapter books, early readers, plays, articles, and more. My books have received awards and accolades, including the National Jewish Book Award, and three Sydney Taylor Medals (one silver, two bronze). They've also landed on the New York Times Best Sellers list, as well as multiple State Book Award and “Best Books” lists, and the Pride and Less Prejudice book list.

I am on the faculty at VCFA’s MFA Program. I also present my work at schools, libraries, conferences, and festivals. I’m currently scheduling author visits for the 2025-2026 school year. My author visits are educational, engaging, and empowering. This may be because I have a theater background, a law degree, and an ice cream truck driver's license.

I'd love to hear from you. I can be reached at erica (at) ericaperl (dot) com. Or you can submit a question here, at the bottom of the page.

Yours truly,

Signed Erica.png