Artie Bennett

About

Jessica Alpart is a middle grade author who lives in upstate New York with her husband, two kids, and three cats. When not writing or working, she can be found reading books, listening to music, and drinking copious amounts of iced coffee.

Fun Facts

• I have ran three half marathons

• I am an ametur bookbinder

• I can't wink or whistle

• I've traveled within the Arctic Circle

About 

Monica is an author, educator, and avid cookie eater. She has a master’s degree in teaching and is a reading tutor in the Reading, Massachusetts school system. She and her husband captain their crew of three children and over a dozen houseplants. You can learn more about Monica at her website www.monicaacker.com

Fun Facts

• I can curl my tongue in three rolls.

• I won tickets on the radio to go to my first concert - Alanis Morrisette at Jones Beach.

• I love to sing Disney songs in the car on long road trips.

About

True or False: The cauldron ingredient “eye of newt” is actually wild mustard seed and used to help with healing. Learn the answer and unveil the world of REAL witches—everyday people who heal and help—with Gabrielle Balkan. Her award-winning non-fiction picture books delight readers ages 0-12 with curious and essential facts about the United States, animal record-breakers, making maps, witches, and lots more. She loves visiting classrooms—that’s where she gets her ideas for new books! Learn more: www.gabriellebalkan.com 

Fun Facts

• I once sat on a cactus — by mistake.

• I have licked a dino coprolite — on a dare. 

• My middle name is Starshine.

About 

Artie Bennett always dreamed of being an author. Now, he lives in Brooklyn, New York, where he spends his time moving his car to satisfy the stringent demands of alternate-side-of-the-street parking.

HuffPost says: “It appears there is no topic Mr. Bennett can’t make funny and educational.”

Fun Facts

• I’ve kept lists since boyhood of all the colorful, eccentric, and remarkable words I’ve encountered. Please don’t ever call me a snollygoster!

• I’m a lifelong Yankee fan and even taught myself to switch-hit way back in Little League, in emulation of my idol, Mickey Mantle.

• I’m the youngest person on record to have sold an original crossword puzzle the New York Times. I was just thirteen years old. It’s been downhill ever since.

About 

 Valerie is the author of 15 books, and 2 books for educators. Sharing her books with young readers,  their families, and educators---and inspiring both children and adults to write their own stories---brings Valerie immense joy! 

Fun Facts

• I want to be called Valerie, not Val

• I have traveled to five of seven continents.

• I am never without a book.

About

Nick is the creator of the NY Times bestselling "Bad Kitty" series.  He lives in Pleasantville, NY with his wife Carina, their son Carson, and their sometimes-good-sometimes-bad cats Noodles and Buzzy.

Fun Facts

•  Nick is half Chinese, his mother being born in Shanghai.  His middle name is Tung Ming.

• Nick has collected hundreds of Pez dispensers over the years.

• Nick's favorite candy is "Good & Plenty"

About

 Jodi Lobdell Bulson is the author of the Toddler Room Series.  She was born in raised in the beautiful Hudson Valley. She has owned and operated a group family day care in her home for over 20 years.  Jodi and her husband David, have been married 42 years. Together they have 5 children and 6 grandchildren.

Fun Facts 

•  When I was 14, I saw a boy and said, “who is that?  I love him.  I want to marry him…and I did!

• I am the sixth child in my family and my husband is the sixth child in his family!

•  I love country music and I have seen Tim McGraw in concert over 60 times!

•  I began babysitting at 13 and have been surrounded by a children my whole life!

•  My real name is Joanne.  I am never called by my real name but I have more nicknames than anyone I know! So many that I am willing to compete in a nickname challenge….if there is one!

About

Angela Calabrese is a former reading specialist who writes fiction and non-fiction picture books, chapter books, and middle grade novels. She believes that words are pure magic and children are her favorite audience to write for. She understands the struggles of a reluctant reader and has a knack for grabbing their attention with her words. Angela lives with her husband and demanding tabby cat in New York’s scenic Hudson Valley where the brilliance of every season takes her breath.

Fun Facts

•  I was born on the first day of spring during a blizzard. 

• I am petite but mighty.

• My books include some quirky tidbits about members of my family (Shhh. That will be our little secret)

About

Professional Photo by Alison Sheeh

Alyssa Satin Capucilli is the award-winning and New York Times best-selling author of more than 150 books for children, including the Biscuit series which has sold more than 54 million copies worldwide and is available in 12 languages. There are now more than 100 books in the Biscuit series. In addition to Biscuit, Alyssa has authored more than 50 books for children, including the Katy Duck series, the non-fiction My First Experiences Series, and many more. Alyssa also co-wrote the instant New York Times bestseller Willow the White House Cat with former First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden. Alyssa’s books have received the Washington Irving Award, the Garden State Award, the Bank Street College Best Book Award, and American Library Association Awards, among others. 

Fun Facts

•  Before I turned to the written word, I danced professionally. Dancing is simply another form of storytelling.

•  Biscuit is one of the most overdue books at the NY Public Library!

•  My favorite food is... pizza.

•  I love to read, garden, and sing...although not very well.

•  Henry and Ribsy by Beverly Cleary was one of my favorite books as a child.  

About 

 Nancy believes deeply in the power of individuals to make a difference—a message that resonates throughout all her books. Her research has taken her across the globe, from the Galápagos Islands to Russia, and she loves sharing these adventures with her readers. 

Fun Facts

• Nancy loves all animals – no favorites!

• If she could only eat one thing on a desert island, it would be pizza. Of course, the toppings would vary.

• Although she’s traveled all over the world, she's always lived in the Hudson Valley, not far from the Hudson River.

About 

Born and raised in Queens, New York, Sylvia Chen has also lived and worked in Boston, San Francisco, Seattle, Paris, and Tokyo, and now resides in New Jersey. As the author of picture books TRICKY CHOPSTICKS and SPARKLES FOR SUNNY, Sylvia loves crafting picture books that spark kids’ interest in STEAM and creative thinking.

Fun Facts

• I love dim sum, sushi, bacon, and anything super yummy!

• One childhood memory I have is going to the San Diego Zoo and running from monkeys throwing "stinky objects" at us from their cage.

• I loved reading so much as a kid that my mom would make me sit on a book during meals so I wouldn't get distracted by it.

About

Catherine Ciocchi is the author of several STEM picture books. She is a former earth science teacher living in the beautiful Hudson Valley, New York.  Catherine loves a great view, the night sky and the changing seasons.  When she’s not writing, she enjoys golf, walking and spending time with family (especially her four grandchildren) and friends.

 Fun Facts:

• Catherine rode in an air balloon over the Palm desert in California.  

• Catherine is the youngest of six siblings.

• Catherine grew up camping and hiking in the Catskill and Adirondack mountains with her family.

About 

Bestselling illustrator who has won four Caldecott Honors, six Coretta Scott King Awards and three Coretta Scott King Honors. His books include Martin's Big Words, Tromebone Shorty, the All Because You Matter series which has garnered five starred reviews. Mr. Collier lives in Marlboro, NY. with his family. 

Fun Facts

• I love crossword puzzles, but board games? Not so much!

• BBQ is my absolute favorite food!

• I love everything Disney… except the roller coasters! 

About

Dr. Amy Coopersmith is an occupational therapist, educator, researcher, and

performing artist whose work bridges the arts and child development. With more than 30

years of experience in pediatric practice, she is a nationally recognized advocate for

children’s self-determination and intrinsic motivation. Before becoming an occupational

therapist, Amy worked professionally as an actress, dancer, and musician — a creative

foundation that continues to shape her innovative, arts-based programming for children.

Dr. Amy loves helping children discover their inner superheroes. As an educator,

advocate, and children’s mental health specialist, she has spent her career

championing the rights of all children — especially neurodivergent youth — to have a

voice, make choices, and be treated with dignity and respect.

Dr. Amy created I’m Stuck and the Captain Me program to turn big ideas about self-

determination into playful stories, music, and characters that children can connect with

and enjoy. Through her work as an occupational therapist, she advocates for learning

environments that support autonomy, confidence, and emotional well-being, believing

that every child deserves the tools to succeed in their own way. Dr. Amy believes every

child has a superhero inside — and this book is an invitation to let that superhero shine. 

Fun Facts

• She grew up with Broadway and television in her living room.

• Amy was raised in a theatrical family. Her father, Jerome Coopersmith, was an accomplished television and Broadway playwright whose credits included the original Hawaii 5-0, Streets of San Francisco, and numerous Broadway plays. Growing up, Amy remembers celebrities such as Billy Crystal, Miles Davis, and Liza Minnelli visiting their home. Talk about an unusual childhood!

• Her love of puppets started with a legendary puppeteer.

• Amy's connection to puppetry goes all the way back to the 1980s, when her father collaborated with Bil Baird, the world-renowned puppeteer behind the famous puppets of The Sound of Music and the beloved marionette performances of the era. Years later, Amy would bring puppets into her own work with children through her Captain Me program—using music, storytelling, and puppetry to teach self-determination.

• She has been teaching children about self-determination for more than 30 years.

• Amy's passion for helping children become confident decision-makers began in the 1990s, when she was working as a health teacher at a private school in New York City. She developed a school-wide self-determination curriculum that taught children practical skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, goal-setting, and self-advocacy as part of their everyday learning. That early work eventually became the foundation for her career as an occupational therapist, researcher, author, and founder of Self-Determined Kids. In 2022, at age 65, Amy received her doctorate from Temple University, conducting research into children's self-determination.

• She has danced on some pretty impressive stages.

• Amy loves to dance and spent many years performing with dance troupes throughout New York City—including performances at Lincoln Center and the United Nations. Her love of music, movement, performance, and creativity continues to show up in her work today.

•  Her favorite roles are Mom and Grandma. ❤️

• Amy is the proud mother of five children and five grandchildren, whom she absolutely adores. She takes every opportunity she can to spend time with them—and considers being with her family one of life's greatest joys.

About 

Barbara Dee is the award-winning author of sixteen middle grade novels including Nothing to See Here, which published on October 20, 2026. Her books have been named to many best-of lists, including the Washington Post’s Best Children’s Books of the Year, the ALA Notable Children’s Books, the ALA Rise List, the ALA Rainbow List Top Ten, and School Library Journal’s Best Books of the Year. In 2024, she was awarded the Rip Van Winkle Award from the School Library Media Specialists of Southeastern NY for “outstanding contribution to the world of children’s literature.” A former teacher and lawyer, Barbara is a co-founder of the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival. Visit her at www.barbaradeebooks.com. 

Fun Facts:

• My dog Junie was named after Junie B. Jones.

•  I'm obsessed with baseball, and root for the Yankees. 

• I'm terrified of roller coasters.

About

Angela De Groot was born in England, grew up in South Africa, and now lives in New Jersey with her family. Angela’s picture book, NOT POP-POP (PRH/Waterbrook) is a 2025 Moonbeam Gold Medal winner and a 2025 Anna Dewdney Read Together Award finalist. Angela hopes that her writing inspires curiosity and compassion while creating worlds that readers can find and lose themselves in. A lifelong lover of reading and writing, Angela teaches ESL and Basic Literacy at her local library. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her in the garden talking to the birds. You can learn more about Angela at  www.angeladegroot.com                                                                    

FUN FACTS

• I grew up and went to school in South Africa. I still have a South African accent even though I’ve lived in America for many years.

• I talk to myself a lot! I also talk to the birds and squirrels in my garden. Sometimes I talk to my car.

• I love to sing. My kids are always asking me to stop, because (they say) I can’t carry a tune.

• I love to travel. I’m hoping to get to all 7 continents. So far, I’ve visited Europe, North America, Africa, and Australia. I still need to go to Asia, South America, and Antarctica.

• I’ve snorkeled with wild dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and lots of colorful fish.

About 

Della Ross Ferreri is a children’s author of delightful picture books, board books, and easy readers. When not writing, she loves spending time with her family, watching movies (with popcorn!), playing disc golf, reading, traveling, and presenting her author program at elementary schools. As a co-founder of Children’s Writers of the Hudson Valley, she also enjoys planning writing conferences and workshops. For more information about Della, her books and school visit programs, please visit her website: www.DellaRossFerreri.com 

Fun Facts

• Della has a wonderful husband, three amazing children, and two adorable Corgi “granddogs” named Marlin and Flounder. 

• As a former French teacher, Della loves visiting France. She’s been to Paris eight times and already has her next trip on the calendar.

• Della has had some interesting jobs, including working as the Easter Bunny at the South Hills Mall and as a DJ at WPDH.

About

Julie Fogliano is the New York Times bestselling author of And Then It’s Spring and If You Want to See a Whale and several other picture books including Just In Case You Want to Fly, When’s My Birthday, and If I Was the Sunshine. Recipient of the 2013 the Ezra Jack Keats award, her books have been translated into more than ten languages. Julie lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband and three children.

 Fun Facts

• My best friend is a small white dog named Annie Rainbow Cakes

• I am on a lifelong quest to make the perfect cinnamon roll

•  I cannot whistle - no matter how hard I try

About 

Deborah was an architect once-upon-a-time, but now she prefers building worlds in picture books. Her stories have been translated into ten different languages, adopted in classrooms across the country, and honored with many starred reviews and awards. She daydreams and makes books in her colorful home in Connecticut. 

Fun Facts

• My first, favorite books were by my aunt, Mary Ann Hoberman.

• We have books in every room of our house.

• If you are in CT and see a license plate that says “KIDLIT”— that’s me!

About 

A visual artist, musician, and psychotherapist, Gary Golio is the author of the New York Times- bestselling JIMI: Sounds Like A Rainbow – A Story of the Young Jimi Hendrix, and Everywhere

Fun Facts

• Though Gary is only as tall as Charlie Chaplin (5'5"), his original last name (Golia) means Goliath in Italian. 

• 5 years ago, Gary found some aged bamboo thrown out by a neighbor and began crafting his own Japanese shakuhachi and Native American-style flutes. 

•  For many years, Gary was a full-time landscape painter. His paintings and pastels are found in private and corporate collections throughout the U.S.

About 

Charlie Greenwald is the author of JEFF O' LANTERN — out now from Magination Press — a "cheery and affirming Halloween tale" (Kirkus) about Jack O'Lantern's shy, not-quite-intimidating older brother, trying to find his own way to shine on Halloween night. He has also co-written THE RESCUES book series with his father, Tommy Greenwald, about two rescue dogs named Moose and Bear who become a bonded pair. He lives in Stamford, CT with his beloved wife and rescue dog and enjoys tennis, traveling, and diving headfirst into pastries from local bakeries.

 Fun Facts

• Charlie is an ardent lover of music and considers Jeff Buckley, David Bowie and Tears for Fears among his favorite artists.

• Charlie is a passionate animal rescue advocate and considers adopting his rescue dog, Momo, one of the smartest things he has ever done in his life.

• Charlie's favorite book as a kid was Holes by Louis Sachar, and it still might be his favorite today.

About 

Jyoti Rajan Gopal is an award-winning author, mom and Kindergarten teacher. Growing up, she lived in Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, India and China. She now lives in New York. As the author of numerous picture books, Jyoti tells stories that speak to her heart, that reflect her multiple identities, that she wishes her daughters had growing up, that she wishes her students had now.

Fun Facts

• My favorite food is noodles of any kind

• I speak several languages

• I love to snorkel

About 

Janice enjoy's walking or biking on beautiful trails, growing her own herbs & veggies and creating or viewing art. She also, loves to travel all over the world to experience different foods and customs.

Fun Facts

• I delight in growing my own vegetables and herbs, starting from seeds.

• I love creating my own art, but relish viewing others’ art, as well. Whenever the opportunity arises, I’ll whisk myself away to art museums and galleries. I almost always leave with a renewed sense of purpose and invigoration.

• Traveling all over the world and experiencing the foods and customs of other cultures is one of my favorite pastimes.

About 

Maya Henderson is an author and illustrator from the Hudson Valley New York who loves creating stories that are funny, heartfelt, and relatable. Her comics have also been featured on the New Yorker website. When she isn’t drawing, Maya can be found baking muffins, playing bass guitar, or substitute teaching.

Fun Facts

• I have always wanted to be an artist.

• I was on an episode of Sesame Street when I was three years old.

• I can play three instruments: clarinet, ukulele, and bass guitar.

About 

Susanna L. Hill (susannahill.com) is the author of five New York Times bestsellers, including Moon's First Friends: One Giant Leap for Friendship, and the award-winning author of over thirty more books for children, including Alphabedtime and the popular When Your Lion Needs a Bath series. She does frequent school and library visits, teaches picture book writing, and has a popular picture book blog. Susanna lives in New York's Mid-Hudson Valley with her children and two rescue dogs. 

Fun Facts

• I can jump more than 100 times on a pogo stick without falling off! (When I was a kid, I could do more than 1000!)

• I love tiny cups, tiny spoons, tiny boxes - anything miniature. They're just so cute!

• My favorite jelly bean flavor is red - which I realize is a color, not a flavor, but who can tell exactly what that flavor is?!

About 

Patrick D. Joyce grew up at U.S. embassies surrounded by secrets and spies, which inspired his mystery novels for middle schoolers and young teens. He was born in Thailand and lived in the Soviet Union, Cuba, and Nicaragua. He loves to talk to young readers and writers about the power of music and books.

Fun Facts

• My mother was born and raised in the Hudson Valley, and I spent vacations here as a kid!

• My favorite book series as a kid was The Adventures of Tintin. Now when I get stuck writing, I ask myself, what would Tintin’s author do? 

• I love cheesecake!

About

Helen Kampion writes poetry, picture books, and middle grade novels. She has published stories in magazines and written non-fiction articles for The National Children’s Book and Literacy Alliance where she serves as Treasurer.

In addition to an MBA from Boston University, Helen holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College. 

She lives with her husband and cat (her “mews”) in Massachusetts. When she’s not scribbling away, you’ll find her curled up with a book, a cat, and a nice hot cup of tea.

FUN FACTS

• Helen went to kindergarten in Japan

• Helen worked at Walt Disney World

• Helen knows the names of the 3 Little Pigs and Sleeping Beauty’s real name

• Helen once had ten cats

About 

Sylvie was born in Morocco, grew up in France and now lives in the beautiful Hudson Valley.  She is the creator of SYLVIE, a middle-grade graphic-novel about her young years in France.

Fun Facts

•  I’m easy to recognize: I have very short hair and a French accent.

• I love spirals!  I manage to include 2 in my autograph.  

• My favorite drink is carrot juice.

About 

Leslie Kimmelman is the author of more than fifty picture books and early readers for children. She was also a longtime children's book editor at several different publishers, including many years at Sesame Workshop. Leslie lives in Westchester County, New York.

Fun Facts

• I read all the time and anywhere: in a tub (ruined a few good books that way), while walking and eating ice cream (broke my ankle that way), while making dinner (my books have lots of food stains). Probably better to choose a comfortable chair!

• I worked at Sesame Street for almost 25 years. I had lots of furry friends there, and was one of the creators of Julia, a neurodivergent Muppet.

•   If I hadn’t become an author, I would have loved to be a nature photographer—but not of bugs!

About

Lorien Lawrence is the author of the middle grade FRIGHT WATCH series (Abrams), for which she earned a rave review from Stephen King, as well as THE MANY HAUNTINGS OF THE MANNING FAMILY, which earned a starred review from BookList and was recently named a Banks Street Best Book of the Year. She has two forthcoming contemporary middle grades with Chronicle (ON THIN ICE) and Disney (3 IN A MILLION) - both out in 2027. When she's not reading or writing, Lorien can be found exploring her home state of Connecticut and teaching her seventh grade English classes. 

 Fun Facts 

• I pitched my first book to James Howe when I was nine. It was called "Campsite Fright". 

• I live in the same town as the haunted Annabel doll. 

• I lived in England for two years after college - it's where I met my husband, and it's still one of my favorite places in the world.

• My favorite books are LITTLE WOMEN and FRANKENSTEIN, but PRACTICAL MAGIC is my favorite comfort read.  

• I actually don't believe in ghosts even though I love writing about them.

About

A lifelong Milton resident, Linda LaPolla is a retired first-grade teacher who dedicated her career to inspiring young readers in the Marlboro Central School District. She attended Mount Saint Mary College, where she majored in English and Elementary Education. Her passion for reading led her to study writing, poetry, and children's literature, planting the seed for a lifelong dream of becoming a children's author.

During her teaching career, Linda also served as Assistant Director of the 1,000 Book Project at the Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library in Milton, where she helped foster a love of reading in young children. After retiring, she finally brought her dream to life by writing her first picture book, beautifully illustrated by Ashley Poulin. Inspired by the power of dreams, the book is dedicated to her four granddaughters and her father, who first instilled in her a love of reading and writing.

Linda lives in Milton with her husband and their dog, Winnie, and is thrilled to see the 1,000 Book Project continuing to inspire young readers throughout the community.

Fun Facts

• Linda enjoys writing poetry, especially humorous poems, and was often asked to write poems honoring retiring teachers at Milton Elementary School.

• Her favorite hobbies include reading, solving word puzzles, playing mahjong, and watching sports.

• Many of the dreams featured in her picture book were inspired by her own vivid dreams.

About

Emeline Lee is an author of children's literature. Her picture books include Bonnie's Rocket (illus. Alina Chau; Lee & Low Books), a STEM-friendly story set during Apollo 11, and Gwei the Hungry Ghost (illus. Basia Tran; Kokila, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers), a whimsical story inspired by Chinese food and folklore. She studied English literature and environmental sustainability at Columbia University and lives in New Jersey. In her free time, Emeline enjoys hiking in nature, eating hot pot, and crocheting cozy things. Visit her website at www.emelineleebooks.com and find her on social media at      @EmelineLeeBooks.                          Fun Facts

•  I’m half Korean and half Chinese.

• I love crocheting cozy things, from stuffed animals to blankets!

• I am a big sci-fi and fantasy fan, and love Star Trek and The Lord of the Rings in particular.

About 

Barbara is known for wordless picture books as well as comics format early readers.  Her illustrations have been exhibited at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Society of Illustrators as well as the the Central Children's Room of the New York Public Library.  She happily resides in Albany NY.  

Fun Facts

• I once rode my bike 1000 miles in one trip. 

• In childhood I used to spend days making homemade magazines.

• I like stripes!

About

Megan Litwin is a children's book author, a former classroom teacher, and a forever believer in book magic. She holds an M.A. in Children's Literature from Simmons University and lives in Massachusetts with her family, where she divides her time between writing and working with young readers and writers through her creative school programming. Find out more at www.meganlitwinbooks.com.

Fun Facts

• I grew up in upstate New York, where I was both a bookworm AND a soccer player.

• I love the four seasons of New England, and couldn't imagine living anywhere else.

• I like to sing (very loudly!!) in my car.

About 

Kristen is known for her innovative approach to integrating technology into elementary education, inspiring both students and fellow educators to embrace creativity, collaboration, and lifelong learning. Through her leadership, she demonstrates how emerging technologies can enhance student engagement while fostering critical thinking and digital citizenship skills. She has recently published her first Children's Book Droney the Little Drone, about the adventures at her elementary school with a little Drone. Learn more at KristenMagyar.com

Fun Facts

• Mom of three children in the Marlboro Central School District Isabella, Lukas and Vivian.

• Teacher in the Highland Falls Fort Montgomery CSD for 21 years.

• Favorite Color is Pink.

About 

Kristi is the award-winning author of Alpacas Make Terrible Librarians and Owls Make Terrible Teachers (illustrated by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne) She lives in Massachusetts with her family and seven fur-family members.

Fun Facts

• I currently share my home with 5 cats and 2 guinea pigs.

• The library in my town was American’s first free public library.

• Like many picture book readers, I still have a couple of baby teeth. If they fall out, I hope the tooth fairy will pay me a visit!

About

Award-winning author and illustrator Daniel J. Mahoney has been drawing since he was old enough to hold a crayon. When he’s not creating books for young readers, he can be found riding his bike, chasing waterfalls, with his hiking club, and zapping people with x-rays at the hospital where he works. Daniel creates art traditionally using a variety of mediums including watercolor, acrylic, acrylic gouache, gouache, micron markers, and pen and ink. He grew up in Albany, New York, and currently resides on a cozy street in the country with his amazing daughter.

Fun Facts

•  I can break dance.

•  I’m also a Radiologic Technologist.

•  I talk to chimpmunks. 

About 

Janae has an MFA in Writing for Children from The New School and lives in Connecticut with her family.

Fun Facts

• She has a miniature schnauzer named Cookie.

• Her favorite color is purple.

• She loves musical theater and even aspired to be on Broadway when she was growing up.

About

 Award-winning author and illustrator Barbara McClintock has created 48 books for children. She is the illustrator of the beloved THE GINGERBREAD MAN, written by Jim Alyesworth, which has sold over 3 million copies worldwide and inspired gingerbread cookie eating around the globe. She wrote and illustrated the ADELE & SIMON series, VROOM!, and THE THREE LITTLE KITTENS, and illustrated NOTHING STOPPED SOPHIE; THE STORY OF UNSHAKABLE MATHEMATICIAN SOPHIE GERMAIN, TOMFOOLERY! RANDOLPH CALDECOTT AND THE RAMBUNCTIOUS COMING-OF-AGE OF CHILDREN’S BOOKS, and WHERE ARE YOU, BRONTË?, the last complete manuscript written by Tomie dePaola. She recently created art for a new Magic the Gathering card series. Barbara lives in northeastern Connecticut with her husband, the illustrator David Johnson, and their nonsensical but well meaning cats Pia and Nick.

For more info about Barbara check out her website here.    

 Fun Facts 

• I like to draw with my eyes closed.

• I like to draw things upside down.

• When I was little, I wanted to be a cat when I grew up. 

• There are days when I still want to be a cat.

• I love pickled beets!

About

Matthew McElligott is the author and illustrator of many books for children including Project WOOFF, Do Not Eat the Game!, the Mad Scientist Academy series, the Benjamin Franklinstein series, Even Aliens Need Snacks, Even Monsters Need Haircuts, and The Lion’s Share. His books have been published around the world in many languages. He is also the co-author and co-lyricist of the musicals Backbeard The Pirate, Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! and Robin: A Sherwood Story. When not writing and illustrating, Matt is a professor of illustration and design at Russell Sage College in Albany, NY, where he has taught for nearly thirty years. More information at www.mattmcelligott.com

Fun Facts

• I once had lunch with supreme court justice Sonia Sotomayor, but she probably doesn’t remember.

• I learned to recite all the presidents of the United States by memory in fifth grade and can still do it.

• I wear a men’s size 11 shoe.  

About

 Marie-Therese has written many Sesame Street SEL books, she also earned her PhD in English from St. John’s University, where her academic focus was James Thurber’s humorous writing. She teaches Children’s and YA Literature at Marist University. Miller and her husband have five grown children and a grandson.

Fun Facts

• I eat Jif peanut butter for lunch every day.

• I love to crochet, and I have won some colorful ribbons at the Dutchess County Fair for my crocheted pieces.

• I often name my pets after sweet treats, such as Cinnamon Sugar Churro and Oreo.

About

Pelumi Nubi is an award-winning travel creator, author and adventurer whose work encourages children and adults to approach the world with courage and curiosity. In 2024, she completed an extraordinary solo road journey from London to Lagos, travelling more than 10,000 kilometres across Europe and West Africa in a tiny purple car named Lumi. That adventure inspired her children's character and brand, Lumi, and her debut picture book, Lumi Drives from London to Lagos: A Little Car with a Brave Heart. Through Lumi, Pelumi introduces young children to courage, exploration, cultural discovery and the belief that being small does not stop you from doing mighty things. The book was recently named Children’s Book of the Year at the Akada Children’s Book Festival.

Fun Facts

• I drove a tiny purple car more than 10,000 km from London to Lagos.

• The real car from my journey is called Lumi and inspired the character in the book.

• My journey took me through 16 countries.

• I love showing children that being small can still mean being mighty.

• The real Lumi car is now displayed in a museum in Lagos, Nigeria.

About

Karen lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband. She enjoys participating in book festivals and visiting schools and libraries. She is also co-founder of Children's Writers of the Hudson Valley, a local group that hosts writing conferences and workshops.

Fun Facts

• I owned an antique center with my family for more than twenty years.

• I was a two-time "cover girl" on a magazine I worked for.

• Ever since I read "Charlotte's Web" at age eight, I haven't been afraid of spiders.

About

Renée Pearce and Kaylin Ruffino are sisters who grew up in Monroe, New York. Renée currently resides in Highland Mills, NY, and Kaylin in Pine Bush, NY.  Renée is a middle school teacher for gifted and talented students and Kaylin teaches middle school art.  Renée and Kaylin wrote Jackson and Auggie: Adventure in the Hudson Valley, to be used as a teaching tool in addition to entertainment. They are both inspired by their parents and families, and the beautiful region of the country where they live.                                                                              Fun Facts

•  We own a home in the Adirondacks and spent summers on Pleasant Lake.

• We both love the water.  Renee was a college Division 1 diver on scholarship and Kaylin swam in College on scholarship.

• Between the two of us we have 4 kids between the ages of 8-14. They are cousins as close as siblings!             

About

Giselle Potter has illustrated  thirty six children’s books. She has illustrated her own stories including, The Year I Didn’t Go to School, which she wrote and illustrated about her experiences of traveling with her parents’ puppet troupe in Italy when she was eight, Tell Me What to Dream About, This Is My Dollhouse, and Sister’s Wish and Before She Was my Grandmother. She has also illustrated stories by such authors as Toni Morrison, Mary Pope Osborne, Ursula Hegi, Mathea Harvey and Gertrude Stein. 

Fun Facts

• I was in a puppet theater with my parents when I was a kid.

• I missed a year of school when I was 8

• Almost everyone in my family is an artist

About

James Preller has written a wide range of (mostly good!) books for children. He's best known for his popular Jigsaw Jones series, Scary Tales, and the middle grade novel, Bystander. He loves visiting schools as a guest author, sharing his enthusiasm for writing, reading, and thinking. He's written books that are age-appropriate -- from silly stories to survival adventures -- for grades PreK-8. His books are available in paperback (cheap!). He currently lives in Troy, NY, and can be contacted at jamespreller@aol.com

Fun Facts

• My favorite musician is Bob Dylan.

• I am the youngest of seven children.

• I love hiking, biking, kayaking -- and napping!

• I have 8 new books coming out in 2027, including two new series: Bigfoot and Dodo Graphic Novels (grades 1-3), and The Survival Code (grades 4-6). There's also a picture book about dogs, two easy to reads books for emergent readers, and a book about SLIME in a "Choose Your Own Adventure" format.

• I can juggle a chainsaw, a bowling ball, and a live chicken. Though sometimes, well . . . oh, that poor chicken!

About

Andrea works in the publishing industry as a writer and editor.A native of New York City, Andrea lives in New York’s Hudson Valley with her family.

Fun Fact

• I was a camper for a month every summer and even worked at camp one summer.

• When I was a teen, I read a bunch of Stephen King books until one summer when I tried to read IT. I had to stop because I got so scared. I’ve never read another King book since.

• I was the last of my friends to learn to swim but now it’s my favorite type of exercise. 

About

Ellen Ramsey is a book and bear lover. Her picture book, A Book for Bear, illustrated by MacKenzie Haley, celebrates friendship, inspires creativity, and encourages children to create books of their very own. The book received a Moonbeam Award, was nominated for a Keystone State Literacy Association award, and was selected for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library for two years. Ellen has worked as an English teacher and as a technical editor for environmental firms. She loves hiking and bird watching.

Fun Facts:

• My husband and I live in a house with 37 teddy bears and thousands of books. 

• My singing voice has inspired many people to locate earmuffs, even on hot summer days. 

• When I was in fourth grade, my best friend and I wrote a play that we performed in a neighbor’s garage. 

• I can read some French, but my pronunciation is so bad it could create an international incident. 

• When we lived in an old house with a barn, we raised chickens and guinea fowl and discovered that guinea fowl make excellent watch dogs!

About 

Award-winning author Susanna Reich has driven big trucks, designed flowers for the Emperor of Japan, and done graduate work in Hawaiian hula—but she thinks writing for kids is more fun! Susanna writes both fiction and nonfiction for all ages. Recent books include Pass the Baby, which School Library Journal’s Betsy Bird calls "utterly adorable and inarguably entrancing,”

Stand Up and Sing! Pete Seeger, Folk Music, and the Path to Justice, and Fab Four Friends: The Boys Who Became the Beatles. Susanna has received the Rip Van Winkle Award for Outstanding Contributions to Children’s Literature, the Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children’s Book

Award for José! Born to Dance, and an NCTE Orbis Pictus Honor for Clara Schumann: Piano Virtuoso. A former Chair of PEN America’s Children’s Book Committee, she lives in Briarcliff Manor, NY, with her husband, children’s book author Gary Golio.

Fun Facts

• I swam with sting rays in the Cayman Islands.

• In my senior year of high school I earned enough money babysitting to take a nine-week trip to Europe.

• I studied ballet at the American Ballet Theatre School and the Royal Academy of Dance.

About 

Michael Rex has been writing and illustrating children’s books since 1995 and is the winner of a 2026 Theodore Suess Geisel Honor Award. He is the creator of over 50 books, including the #1 Bestseller, “Goodnight Goon,” “Eat Pete” and the popular “Facts vs. Opinions vs. Robots.” His graphic novel series “Your Pal Fred” is about the nicest boy in the apocalypse.  In 2017 his “Fangbone” graphic novels were turned into an animated TV show. He loves traveling the country to visit schools. He lives with his wife, two sons and a dog in Leonia, NJ 

Fun Facts

• He likes drawing more than writing.

• He never eats breakfast.

• He’s very good at decluttering.

About 

OLUGBEMISOLA RHUDAY-PERKOVICH is the award-winning author of several books, a member of The Brown Bookshelf, and Board member of New York Nature Mobile. She is a NAACP Image Award nominee and two-time African American Literature Book Club bestseller. She edited the We Need Diverse Books anthology The Hero Next Door and contributed to several collections, including We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices and Imagine it Better: Visions of What School Might Be. She was commissioned by the Kennedy Center to write the Operation Sisterhood stage adaptation, and has written for various outlets, including PBS Parents. Olugbemisola was twice awarded a public service fellowship from the Echoing Green Foundation for her work with girls and was the 2024 Writer-In-Residence at Bank Street School for Children. Olugbemisola lives with her family in New York City where she writes, makes things, and needs to get more sleep.

Fun Facts:

• I went to a different school for every grade up until 8th.

• I spent a day on Sesame Street.

• Long walks and knitting are part of my writing process.

About 

When she’s not working or writing, she is hanging out with her family and two dogs in Connecticut. She is represented by Tricia Lawrence from the Aevitas Creative Management and is a big fan of the three Cs: coffee, chocolate, and coconut.

Fun Facts

• Cindy started college when she was 16 years old. 

• She has lived in three states: Illinois, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. 

• Late in life, she went camping for the first time and learned how to fish.

About 

   Pat Schories grew up playing outside; or inside, doing artwork and reading books. And now, all these years later, her life is much the same. When not in her studio working on a book, she can often be found outside working in her garden.      

     She has illustrated over 80 books for children, and is most well known as the illustrator of “Biscuit,” the early “I Can Read” series of books written by Alyssa Capucilli and published by HarperCollins. In addition to illustrating, Pat has also written and illustrated several "I Like to Read" books, most recently "Squeak the Mouse Likes His House," and "Pie for Chuck," both published by Holiday House. 

     Pat lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband Harry, an old-time fiddler, and when not in her studio making art, or outside working in her garden, she goes to fiddle festivals with Harry, where she plays upright bass and backup guitar.

Fun Facts

•   Pat modeled Biscuit after her own puppy, whose name was Spike! Spike had no idea he was a famous model. 

• Pat often plays music for square dances with her fiddler husband, Harry. 

• One of Pat's first jobs after graduating college, was as an artist for American Greetings Card Company.

About 

Professional Photo by Rob Spring

A former textbook writer, Steve Sheinkin is now making amends by writing books young people might actually want to read. He's the author of fast-paced, cinematic nonfiction including Bomb, Fallout, Undefeated, Born to Fly, The Port Chicago 50, and Impossible Escape, as well as The Bletchley Riddle, a middle grade historical mystery written with Ruta Sepetys. Steve's accolades include a Newbery Honor, three Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards, a Sibert Medal and Honor, three National Book Award finalist honors, and the Margaret A. Edwards Award. He lives with his family in Saratoga Springs, New York.

Fun Facts

• The first writing award I ever won was for a (mostly true) short story about the time my middle school bus driver barfed on the bus while driving us home.

• My brother and I wrote and directed a low-budget movie called A More Perfect Union. It got terrible reviews and we lost all our money! 

• I used to write history textbooks, but there was nothing fun about it.

• When I'm not writing I like doing stuff outside: kayaking, tennis, cross-country skiing

About

Nancy Scofield Stewart started illustrating as a young child. Under her grandfather's influence, she knew art would always be a part of her life. Her experience as a kindergarten teacher cemented her love of creating books that bring joy to children. She is an author and illustrator of Little Fred and Big Jake, and the illustrator of Moon River, The ABC's of the Erie Canal, Empathetic Emmy, and Lily the Ladybug Lifeguard. She lives in the Hudson Valley with her family and four furry pets.

Fun Facts

• She has visited 49 states, 22 National parks, and 16 countries so far.

• She has hiked the Grand Canyon with her husband and 3 young children.

• She swam with dolphins in Anguilla.

• She is a direct descendent of Robert the Bruce, Former king of Scotland 

• Her grandmother's cousin's, Fritz and Ottmar Walter helped win the 1954 World Cup

About 

Jacky Davis and David Soman are the authors and illustrator of the ELVIS & ROMEO book series that follows a grumpy bulldog who enjoys his alone time, and a very social labradoodle, as they form an unlikely friendship.

They are the creators of the New York Times bestselling LADYBUG GIRL books, and have made a number of other picture books as well. 

Jacky and David live in the small, fun town of Rosendale, NY.

Fun Facts

• David likes to watch videos of animals doing animal things along with very annoying songs.

• Jacky thinks about how she could live with every dog in the world that needs a home.

• David and Jacky love to make really weird sandwiches.

About

Lisa Stewart is a children’s book author, former elementary school teacher, and homeschooling mother of two based in the Hudson Valley, New York. With over 15 years of experience in early childhood and elementary education, she specializes in helping children navigate big emotions through storytelling, literacy, and creative expression. Lisa writes heartfelt children’s books that support kids through grief, loss, and emotional growth. Her award-winning picture book, Heaven Is Amazing – The Dogs, offers comfort to children coping with the loss of a pet, using gentle, imaginative language to explore themes of love, healing, and what comes after goodbye. In addition to writing, Lisa is the creator of Happizine, a creative magazine designed to inspire children and families through writing prompts, art, and storytelling. She is passionate about social-emotional learning, children’s literacy, and creating meaningful resources for families, educators, and homeschool communities.

Fun Facts

• I love finding small critters outside (like turtles, frogs, and fun little insects/wildlife).

• One of my favorite activities is traveling to wild places!

• My favorite sports are: swimming, snorkeling, hiking and trail running…I also LOVE giving swim lessons!

About 

Nancy is a former teacher, speech-language pathologist, and adjunct professor of phonetics and child language development, all of which helped plant seeds for stories about awesome kids doing brave things. A transplant from the Midwest, Nancy now lives in Connecticut with her family and enjoys spooky summers on the coast of Maine.

Fun Facts

• Favorite Ice Cream is Coconut.

• Favorite snack is Popcorn.

• I once sang the national anthem at the Detroit Tigers baseball stadium. 

About

Pam Vaughan is the author of picture books, TENACIOUS WON’T GIVE UP, illustrated by Leanne Hatch and MISSY WANTS A MAMMOTH, illustrated by Ariel Landy. She is the Director of the Whispering Pines Writers’ Retreat and is the NE-SCBWI co-Assistant Regional Advisor. She lives with her family in central MA amongst turkeys, deer, and owls. Visit her online here.

Pronouns – she/her

Fun Facts

• When I visited the Galapagos, I swam with wild sea turtles and baby sharks .

• I don’t like cake (but love ice cream (but not chocolate).

• I play ice hockey three times a week.

About 

She enjoys doing school and library visits to talk to kids about her books. When she’s not writing or illustrating books for children, she might be painting landscapes or training service dogs. Joy lives outside Boston with her husband and two cats. 

Fun Facts

• Joy is a grandma and has two beautiful granddaughters!

• It took Joy over 10 years to get her first books published.

• THE MOUSE WHO LOVED LATKES is Joy’s first picture book as both the author and the illustrator!

About

D. R. Whitehead is a middle grade fiction author with a passion for creating stories that inspire young readers. After seeing how misunderstandings and everyday challenges can affect friendships, she began writing books that explore friendship, kindness, forgiveness, and the importance of working through conflicts together.

Dedicated to encouraging a lifelong love of reading, D. R. Whitehead strives to write fun, engaging stories that entertain while teaching meaningful life lessons. She lives in New York with her family and enjoys spending time at the beach, searching for fireflies on summer evenings, and finding inspiration for her next adventure. 

Fun Facts

• I collect Baby-Sitter Club series books.

• I love hearing a good joke.

• I once did an internship at Walt Disney World.

About 

Alysa lives in the Hudson Valley with her family, two demanding rescue dogs, and a cat-shaped dog, who are all either monsters or marvels, depending on the day.

Fun Facts

• My dogs immigrated to the States from Egypt.

• I once played a zombie in a horror movie.

• I used to be a casting director, which means my job was to help movie and TV directors choose actors.

About

Joseph Zupan was inspired by his favorite children’s authors, Dr. Seuss and Roald Dahl to try his hand at writing his own children’s books. He incorporates the same sense of humor he used in his thirty years of teaching elementary school in his writing. In addition, Joe finds inspiration in local history, hobbies and supportive family and friends. He has published two books, Santa’s Predicament and The ABC’s of the Erie Canal and is working on his third. Joe resides in the scenic and historic Hudson Valley region of New York with his two cats, Wendy and Cody.

Fun Facts

• I have been an avid model railroader and a lover of trains since childhood. 

• I’m a member of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity, Zeta Iota Chapter. 

• In my spare time I enjoy going to casinos, especially in Las Vegas. 

• I’m a strong supporter of dog and cat rescues and pet adoption, especially the Walden Humane Society in Walden. 

• I’m planning to take a class in stand up comedy and try my hand at that in the future.