Through sharing their thoughts about the power of reading, these authors will model how books can teach young readers about the world and themselves, specifically with regard to discussing stories of empathy, courage, adventure, and heart.
Featuring Janae Marks, Lorien Lawrence, James Bird, Adrianna Cuevas, AJ Sass, and Supriya Kelkar. Moderator: Shannon Doleski
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6:00 PM: Valuing the Spectrum of Identities in YAThese authors have embraced diverse characters with regard to race, class, gender, and queerness in YA by centering stereotypically marginalized characters. In doing so, they have given voice to their audience’s diverse spectrum of identities.
Featuring Jenny Lee, Tobly McSmith, Mintie Das, Leah Johnson, and Natasha Diaz