In honor of March being Women’s History Month, Huffington Post has compiled a list of 17 children’s books that parents can read to their kids that are inspired by the lives of real women in history. The Youngest Marcher, illustrated by Vanessa B. Newton, had the honor of appearing on this list. The book introduces young readers to Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Civil Rights activist who taught the world you’re never too young to make a difference. Also included on the list is Shaking Things Up, which includes illustrations from PW artist Shadra Strickland and 12 other extraordinary women. You can view the entire list of books here.
The second book in Elise Gravel‘s Olga series has received an excellent review from Kirkus. The book hit stores yesterday, and follows the space journey of Olga and her pal Meh, who is ailed by a mysterious sickness that Olga must help combat. The reviewer showers praise upon the “delightfully unconventional heroine,” pointing out her boldness, intelligence, and humor. Also complimented is Gravel’s “charming artwork,” more specifically the “pleasing” and “appealing” nature of the illustrations. You won’t want to miss this “well-wrought sophomore,” which is now available for purchase here!
Come join in celebrating Shadra Strickland at the Highlights Foundation Art Reception in her honor on March 17, 2018. The reception launches the Highlights Foundation’s 2018 Visual Arts Exhibit, which features Shadra’s original art from A Child’s Blessings and Prayers: From Faiths and Cultures Around the World, written by Deloris Jordan. Not only can you attend the reception, but you’re also welcome to join Shadra in “Unworkshopping,” where the Highlights Foundation provides lodging and meals while you focus on your creative work. RSVP for the reception here, and get more info about both the reception and Unworkshopping event here.
London Ladd, illustrator of Frederick’s Journey: The Life of Frederick Douglass, recently paid a visit to Douglass’ hometown of Baltimore, Maryland, where he presented to a troop of boy scouts at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum on the importance of the prominent African American historical figure. Through art and lecture, he helped them learn about the impact of the famed abolitionist, who fought for equal rights for everyone. You can watch a video of Ladd’s impact here.
Congratulations to K.G. Campbell, whose picture book Dylan the Villain has been nominated for the Iowa Association of School Librarians’ Goldfinch Award for 2018-2019! This award is unique because children get to read the nominated titles and vote for the winner, directly influencing the yearly reading list. You can read more about the award here.
Ashley Spires was recently interviewed for the podcast Art Side of Life, where she discussed topics such as finding an agent and things she wishes she had known starting off as an author/illustrator. Listen to Ashley’s inspirational chat with Iva, the show’s host, where you’ll hear everything from great advice about children’s publishing to Ashley’s own art tool preferences and process. You can find the full episode here.
