Hello kids and kids-at-heart,
Here’s an update on things going on the last several months!
One of my favorite parts of being a children’s author is getting to meet readers, writers, and book-loving grown-ups. In the spirit of Children’s Book Week, May 4 – 10, it feels especially sweet to pause and celebrate these moments.
I attended:
- The SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Conference) in New York City, which included an amazing keynote speech from Newbery medalist Meg Medina (The Merci Suárez Trilogy Boxed Set) and authors who gave workshops like Alyson Gerber (The Liars Society). I also got to hear the In Conversation segment with famed Newbery winner Jason Reynolds (Ghost) and his agent Elena Giovinazzo.
- The Pasadena Festival of Women Authors in Pasadena, CA — though, they didn’t have any children’s book authors on the list of speakers, at least not that I noticed, it was still inspiring to see and hear from incredible female authors. Amity Gaige, Leila Mottley, Kathy Wang, Virginia Evans, Karen Russell and Kyra Davis shared candid stories about their book’s journey from idea to publication, as well as some challenges they overcame as authors.
- The SD Writers Festival in Coronado, CA, which was full of great workshops. And the day was capped by a keynote with popular bestselling author Jodi Picoult, who spoke about her latest novel By Any Other Name. I also caught up with old friends and met some cool new people, like co-owner Jeanell English of the minority-and-women-owned indie publisher Elizabeth & Minnie Publishing.
- A wonderful book reading and signing with author Huda Al-Marashi in San Diego, which reminded me why community matters so much in children’s literature. Getting to hear stories in person, listen to families, and celebrate books together is something I always enjoy. Check out her middle-grade novel, Hail Mariam, about an Iraqi-American girl’s experience as the only Muslim student attending a Catholic school.
All of these author adventures always send me back to my desk feeling inspired, grateful, and ready to keep creating stories.
Social Media Love
Children’s Book Week is also the perfect time to celebrate the kind people and organizations helping books reach new readers. I was so excited to see my Ethan Talks to Animals series featured by influencers @BlackGirlInTheLibrary and @BarbershopBooks.
That kind of support means a lot to me because it helps more kiddos discover stories that are playful, heartfelt, and welcoming. I’m deeply grateful for every share, feature, and recommendation that helps connect books with families who might need them.
My Latest Great Reads
If you’re looking for books for you or your kids to read this month, don’t forget to check out my recent blog post, which highlights six of my favorite reads so far this year.
Continue the Children’s Book Week Celebration!
I am so grateful to be part of this community of readers and writers. Children’s Book Week is a reminder that stories are the bridges that connect us, whether we’re reading a contemporary story about a cat burglar in Amsterdam or a historical novel about a boy looking to find his musician-father in Michigan.
Comment below: What is a “fresh favorite” your kiddo or you has discovered recently? Let’s keep the recommendations flowing!
Happy reading, everyone, and thank you for being a part of my journey!
Nico