Who is she and what does she think she's doing?

Barbara Spilman Lawson was an elementary school teacher for 22 years and is now a professional singer/storyteller and writer of educational materials and children's books.

During her teaching years, Barb presented workshops at state-wide Early Childhood conferences, worked with Gifted and Talented students across the state in drama, and wrote, directed, and produced for children's theater. Barb was also the Augusta County, VA Teacher in Space applicant in 1985.

Barb has entertained thousands of students, teachers, and families up and down the east coast with her hilarious, interactive storytelling programs, workshops and in-services. And check out what people are saying about her shows! She has also done presentations for children and adults at numerous public libraries, festivals as well as state and national conferences.

"Put Something In" by Shel Silverstein Draw a crazy picture, Write a nutty poem, Sing a mumble-gumble song, Whistle through your comb. Do a loony-goony dance ‘Cross the kitchen floor, Put something silly in the world That ain't been there before.

At the Virginia Festival of the Book in Charlottesville, Barb has been a featured storyteller for the past 4 years. She has performed leading and supporting roles in over 45 musical theater productions with the Waynesboro Players, Oak Grove Theatre and ShenanArts. Barb also acted in the Parents' Choice Award-winning PBS television special, RHYMES AND REASONS.

"Songs with a TWIST" is Barb's first music CD for kids. She worked with world-renowned musician, Richard Adams, to produce a wild and wacky, fun-filled treat for the whole family. There will also be an accompanying songbook to go along with the CD coming soon!

JAMBO, WATOTO! (Hello, Children!) is Barb's first picture book. It was written with her sister, Elizabeth Massie (art by Marsha Heatwole), and came out in the fall of 1998 (Creative Arts Press). Barb also writes for several major publishing companies including Scholastic, The Education Center, Harcourt Brace, Inc., Steck-Vaughn, Scott Foresman and McGraw-Hill.

As the founder of Fun Stuff Publications, a publishing company that produces books and materials to help teachers and students with the Virginia SOLs, Barb keeps up to date with the standards required for schools to be successful in these areas. She has written and illustrated more than 30 books for Fun Stuff.

Barb is married to Charlie, a VW enthusiast and owner of C J Buggs Import Repair Service. They have a beautiful 13 year-old daughter, Jenni.