***To everyone who completed the PiBoIdMo Challenge, the Pledge for you to sign is coming later today. In the meantime, enjoy our first Post-PiBo guest blog with a very talented illustrator!***
When I was going to school, I attended a community school that had been created by the parents and local writers, artist, musicians, and poets. It was a special school because we could not go to white schools. We had some of the best teachers ever! One day, I met this wonderful teacher named Miss Russell. Miss Russell had the biggest, orangest afro I had ever seen in my whole entire life. It looked like a cloud. She wore the shortest dresses and the coolest shoes. I loved Miss Russell. Once she set me on her lap and shared a beautiful book that has stayed with me all these years. It was about a young boy who wore a red snow suit and lived in the hood as far as I was concerned, LOL! The thing that stood out about this boy was that he was brown just like me!
He was beautiful!! His mom and dad looked just like my parents. Even the wallpaper looked like the wallpaper in my own house. I was excited and thrilled. Surely the person was who created this book must have been watching me from his studio window. The book left me feeling some kind of way. It conveyed all my feelings and thoughts through its beautiful, colorful pictures and collage. I couldn’t remember all the words to the story, for you see I am dyslexic. There was nobody who really understood what that was. The words didn’t make sense to me but the pictures told me the story.
Everybody is now talking about diversity in children’s books. In 1963 there weren’t many books that had a black child as a main character, and when they were drawn in children’s books of old, black people were drawn very cruelly and just plain ugly. The book moved me so because it would be the first time I would see a black child that looked like me, dressed like me…might have even been me, LOL.
I loved Peter—he was my little brother in my head. Peter was beautifully illustrated and I related to his story because I had experienced the same thing. Countless other children experienced the same thing. Many years would pass and I would end up in a Barnes and Noble looking for picture books to inspire me as I began to illustrate children’s books myself. I came across “The Snowy Day”.
Now as I told you, I am dyslexic. Reading for me sometimes can be a struggle. The words seem to dance on the page. Numbers seem to move and float around. I push myself constantly to read out loud, and while I make it look effortless and fun, it is a struggle for me still. I took “The Snowy Day” and sat on the floor of B&N and I read it through tears. Every wonderful and magnificent word.
Finally, words and pictures came together. Comforting memories from the first time that the book was read to me spilled over like warm beach waves. I looked for books written and illustrated by Ezra Jack Keats. I began to do my own study on his work. I copied the man. I wanted to somehow do for other children what this awesome man had done for me. Ezra Jack Keats made me feel so special because he thought that I should have been in a children’s book all along. I wasn’t an afterthought!
It is important that not only Black, White, Chinese or Indian children be seen in picture books, but that all children see themselves in picture books. That all children get to experience another culture so that their minds broaden. Diversity is needed if we are going to grow as writers and illustrators. I like to call myself “The Multicultural Illustrator”. It is reflected in my work. I come from a very blended background—African American, Asian, European, and Jewish decent—it’s all in there. So if you are thinking that diversity is not important, take it from a little brown girl who was effected by someone’s beautiful pictures.
Once Upon A Time, a little girl wished to be an artist. So, she took her fantastic box of Crayola crayons and drew on the sides of her mother’s clean white stove and white walls. When her mother prepared dinner that night, the crayons melted in a beautiful puddle of waxy deliciousness. She was thrilled! Her parents? Not so much. They made that almost-famous artist get some soap and water and remove and clean up her fantastic masterpiece. Her mom and dad got her a pad of paper and she has been drawing ever since. Vanessa is agented by Painted-words.com. She lives in Charlotte, NC with her husband, daughter and a friendly cat named Stripes. Visit her at Oohlaladesignstudio.blogspot.com and follow her on Twitter @nesterb.
Her latest book is ONE LOVE, based on the song by Bob Marley and adapted by Cedella Marley.
254 comments
Comments feed for this article
December 1, 2014 at 6:36 am
Kaye Baillie
Lovely words, Vanessa. Thanks for sharing and I love ‘Snowy Day’ too.
December 1, 2014 at 6:41 am
julietclarebell
I rediscovered some of my own Ezra Jack Keats books up at my parents’ house a few years ago. There’s something really magical about them. I love Whistle For Willie, as well as The Snowy Day. Happy illustrating! Thanks for the post. Clare.
December 1, 2014 at 6:52 am
Lori Mozdzierz
Snowy Day is a favorite book in our house!
LOL! Love the story of stove side art 😀
December 1, 2014 at 6:55 am
Laurie Theurer
LOVE your illustrations and your wonderful words. Thank you.
December 1, 2014 at 7:03 am
Beth Gallagher
Fabulous post!!! As the white mom of two cherished brown daughters, I can’t tell you how wonderful your illustrations are, and how much they are needed! Thanks for your inspiration.
December 1, 2014 at 7:04 am
Rebecca Colby
Diversity in books is so important! So great to read your personal story and hear how Ezra Jack Keats inspired you!
December 1, 2014 at 7:24 am
thestoryladyva
Important points about diversity for all of us to remember! Really enjoyed your story! Thank you!
December 1, 2014 at 7:26 am
Margaret Flint Suter
Your work and your words are delightful! Diversity in children’s books should be ALL of our goals! Thanks, going to visit your web page!
December 1, 2014 at 7:30 am
Dee Knabb
Love your work and celebration of our rich diverse world.
December 1, 2014 at 7:44 am
Freckled Daisy Creations
I want to BE that Miss Russel! For all my children! I love love love this post-I am hoping that my stories allow children to see themselves and their amazing gifts-that often go unnoticed. And now to update my Christmas list of books!
December 1, 2014 at 7:50 am
Jessica Miller-Nims
Children need to have that story that feels like it could be written about them. It touches their soul and makes them love life and reading all the more. I’m so glad you found yours. 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 8:00 am
Janet Smart
Enjoyed the post. Children do wish to see themselves in books. Beautiful illustrations, glad your wish came true.
December 1, 2014 at 8:07 am
Michele Prestininzi
Vanessa, Thanks for sharing your personal story. It’s such an important message and so inspiring.
December 1, 2014 at 8:08 am
lmconnors
Lisa Connors
Diversity is important! I remember reading Corduroy as a young (white) girl and thinking nothing about skin color, just of a child who loved a teddy bear. There were not enough such books. We need them.
December 1, 2014 at 8:09 am
Yvonne Mes
Thank you for showing the power of books and the importance of diversity in picture books.
December 1, 2014 at 8:11 am
imartypoet
Your art is lovely. I had the thrill of seeing Ezra Jack Keats originals at a local museum. Peter’s Chair is a favorite of mine. Whenever it snows I think of the images in the Very Sniwy Day. I think he influenced all of us and continues to now. Thank you for bringing one of the truly great illustrators to the PiBoIdMo community. Miss Russell sounds totally cool. She makes me realize we need diverse looks as well as books to make their way into picture books! Have you drawn her into one of yours yet?
December 1, 2014 at 8:12 am
August Washington
😊 thank you
December 1, 2014 at 8:19 am
lindamartinandersen
So glad you were encouraged to draw and were introduced to one of the greats that inspired you.
December 1, 2014 at 8:32 am
gweddle
Thank you for sharing your personal story. So many of us feel a separateness. Recognizing ourselves in stories gives us feelings of inclusion, acceptance and security. Hence the importance of diversity in children’s books. They have such power. 😊
December 1, 2014 at 8:35 am
Cathy Breisacher
Your work is gorgeous and your words tugged at my heart strings. Thank you for sharing.
December 1, 2014 at 8:39 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
You are a very talented artist and writer. I truly enjoyed your blog.
December 1, 2014 at 8:43 am
Stacy Gray
Vanessa, you may not read easily, but you write and draw like a dream! That is one of my favorite books…it’s timeless and it inspired me to illustrate too.
December 1, 2014 at 8:43 am
Jeanine Potter
Thank you for the lovely post and the reminder to celebrate the diversity of all of us. Beautiful illustrations! Wishing you all the very best.
December 1, 2014 at 8:45 am
pathaap
Very moving post, Vanessa. I love a Snowy Day, too.
December 1, 2014 at 8:50 am
Laura Purdie Salas
What a lovely post! Thank you for sharing your story.
December 1, 2014 at 8:51 am
wfedan
What a great post! Thank you!
December 1, 2014 at 8:54 am
Donna Rossman
Your art work is so beautiful and just uplifting! How wonderful to feel like a book was written for you, that the author must have seen you somehow. To make a child reading my books (someday) feel that way is my dream. Thank you so much for sharing your story. 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 8:56 am
ManjuBeth
Vanessa, Thank you for sharing your story and pictures. You are doing a wonderful job illustrating the diversity of our world.
December 1, 2014 at 8:57 am
Louann Brown
Love your illustration style and your adorable characters. Thanks for the reminder to include more diverse characters in our manuscripts.
December 1, 2014 at 8:58 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love Keats’ work 0 and I love the story of how he came to illustrate Peter from a magazine clipping: http://www.ezra-jack-keats.org/introduction/a-biography/ Thank you Vanessa!
December 1, 2014 at 9:01 am
Lori Dubbin
So lovely to awake to “The Snowy Day” this morning, just like Peter did! Your message, story, and illustrations are powerful and beautiful, and your words say it all.
December 1, 2014 at 9:01 am
Jenny Seiger
Thank you Vanessa for this moving post and sharing your story. We do need more diversity in books. I absolutely love your illustrations! They are beautiful!
December 1, 2014 at 9:02 am
Jim Chaize
Thank you Vanessa, for you very personal and moving post. You confirm for us all again the power of picture books.
December 1, 2014 at 9:07 am
Andria
Love your post and your work, Vanessa! I used to melt my crayons in the vaporizer.
December 1, 2014 at 9:14 am
Alice Fulgione
Teaching taught me the importance of diversity in reading material. Thanks for your great post!
December 1, 2014 at 9:24 am
Mark. A. Bentz
Thank you Vanessa for your post. So glad you are a part of PiBoIdMo
you are an inspiration.
December 1, 2014 at 9:25 am
Jodi Moore
Your words – and illustrations – touch my heart! I’m so happy your parents bought you that tablet of paper…and that your inspiration and art continues to brighten so many lives.
December 1, 2014 at 9:26 am
Isabelle Barth
Vanessa, Love your post and your drawing. I am so much in favor of diversity. Fighting for it everyday. Great post. Thanks
December 1, 2014 at 9:29 am
Laura Bellina
Thanks for sharing! A powerful reminder of the power of picture books!
December 1, 2014 at 9:35 am
Cheryl
Love your illustrations!
December 1, 2014 at 9:37 am
saputnam
Great post! Thank you for sharing your personal story, Vanessa. I also feel that diversity in children’s books should be every writer’s goal… it is vitally important that children see themselves in the books they are reading.
December 1, 2014 at 9:37 am
Sylvia Liu
What a great post to start the week with. Thanks.
December 1, 2014 at 9:39 am
Ann K
Thank you very much for sharing your story. It means a lot!
December 1, 2014 at 9:39 am
vickireinhardt2014
Great article!
December 1, 2014 at 9:45 am
Naana Kyereboah
I love your illustrations!. Thanks for the post, Vanessa
December 1, 2014 at 9:46 am
donnacangelosi
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story, Vanessa! What a wonderful reminder that just one picture book can make all the difference to a child. I absolutely love your illustrations!
December 1, 2014 at 9:47 am
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
Great story and inspiration!
December 1, 2014 at 9:50 am
Nadine Gamble
So true! Thank u for ur beautiful message
December 1, 2014 at 9:57 am
Juliana Lee
Thank you for showing us once again why picture books are important!
December 1, 2014 at 10:06 am
tphumiruk
Vanessa, I LOVE your art. You are an inspiration!! Thank you for sharing.
December 1, 2014 at 10:07 am
Suzanne kaufman
Amazing port thank you.
December 1, 2014 at 10:10 am
Shirley Timberlake Fadden
I well remember a play date I had with a METCO student after school one day. I was in awe of her beautiful black baby doll as I had only seen white baby dolls before. A lot has changed and continues to change and your personal history and energetic, beautiful illustrations are part of this movement in picture books. Thank you!
December 1, 2014 at 1:44 pm
vanessa newton
Oh my goodness that soooo touched my heart! What a wonderful memory. So much has changed. Sending you wonderful thoughts.
December 1, 2014 at 10:10 am
Rebecca E. Guzinski
One of the greatest gifts we can give children is the stories they experience in picture books. Diversity is also a significant factor in our world so we must teach our children to embrace it. After all, this would make the world a more loving place. Your art work is amazing!
December 1, 2014 at 10:12 am
Alisa Harris-Norico
The Snowy Day was a favorite in my house as well. Thanks for your great post on the importance of including diverse characters. Good luck with your illustrations, they’re fantastic!
December 1, 2014 at 10:16 am
Debra Daugherty
What an inspiring post!
December 1, 2014 at 10:20 am
Janie Reinart
Vanessa your illustrations are so vibrant! I love Ezra Jack Keats too! I write a grant for poetry books for students in the inner city and search for poetry books that are illustrated with children of color! Thank you for your post!
December 1, 2014 at 10:23 am
Nancy Tandon
An orange afro cloud! Please write/illustrate that into one of your books!
December 1, 2014 at 10:24 am
Carrie Finison
Thank you for sharing your beautiful, vibrant illustrations! Ezra Jack Keats has been a favorite in our house for a long time (starting with my husband when he was little). Your story is a great reminder of how powerful literature can be in the life of a child.
December 1, 2014 at 10:29 am
Michelle Cusolito
Love your art work! Thank you for this.
December 1, 2014 at 10:36 am
artsfusionmethod
Vanessa your illustrations are outstanding and your story was deeply moving. I have noticed that the kids I teach (in a College Town) “expect” to see diversity in books. I also notice that they are not shocked if a child does not look like the parents. They are used to seeing parents of one nationality with a child of another. They are used to seeing brothers and sisters of various ethnicities too. Hopefully….our future will be more colorful in every way.
December 1, 2014 at 10:39 am
Priya
Thank you for following your bliss. I’m all for diversity. I want to see children from diverse races and different social economic backgrounds. Too often, books only are about the (caucasian) middle class children from whole families. How about broken families, single parents, blended families, children from lower social economic classes. etc…
December 1, 2014 at 10:40 am
Mary Uhles
Love your work Vanessa! and your story of The Snowy Day is really inspiring. Earlier this year I was tapped to illustrate my first trade book… right away i decided it would be a multi cultural family. Now months later, slogging through the trenches of trying to make each illustration perfect, sweating over every detail or decision sometimes i forget that these characters might inspire some future artist… thanks for the reminder;)
December 1, 2014 at 1:47 pm
ednamole
Yes, yes, YES!! This is what I am speaking of! CONGRATS to you on your first book! I hope that there are many, many more that will come from you!
December 1, 2014 at 10:48 am
Elizabeth Brown
Thank you, Vanessa! Beautiful illustrations!
December 1, 2014 at 10:48 am
Christy Mihaly
Beautiful post! Thank you!
December 1, 2014 at 10:48 am
Barbara Cairns
Vanessa, i shall never look at The Snowy Day the same again after reading your inspiring story.Thank you for sharing not only your childhood story but also your lovely illustrations.
December 1, 2014 at 10:49 am
kpbock
I love your beautiful illustrations and your very important message.
December 1, 2014 at 10:58 am
kathalsey
Vanessa, you can paint with your words, too. Such a beautiful post! I love your work.
December 1, 2014 at 10:59 am
Erin O'Brien
I came up with idea #31 after reading this. Thank you for your inspiring words!
December 1, 2014 at 11:01 am
loriannlevyholm
My son isn’t a little brown boy but Snowy Day was his favorite book as a child. There was an Erza Jack Keats exhibit at the Skirball and I drooled over all his work. It is more magnificent than I could have imagined. Thank you for your post.
December 1, 2014 at 11:06 am
Kim Pfennigwerth
Love this post! But Thank you especially for the message!
December 1, 2014 at 11:07 am
daynesislendesign
Your story is beautiful. I think we all love Snowy day, it’s a universal story. Almost all the books I have illustrated in a last few years have been multicultural. That’s the way life is, that’s what our children should read.
December 1, 2014 at 11:13 am
deborahholtwilliams
What a beautiful post about the impact a picture book can have on a child’s self-worth! Thank you.
December 1, 2014 at 11:18 am
vijikc
Lovely post! Thank you.
December 1, 2014 at 11:24 am
Andrea Mack
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if everyone could connect with a book the way you have? Thank you for sharing your story.
December 1, 2014 at 11:28 am
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks for this timely, important post, Vanessa. Btw, I got to see an exhibit of EJK’s work at the Jewish Museum in NY a while back. Stunning.
December 1, 2014 at 11:32 am
Maple and Baobab
You have a beautiful way with words, and you have a beautiful way with illustrations. How many of us grownups and still children today desire books with us in them. There is so much evidence of improving reading for students when the readers can identify with who they are reading about. Thanks for this post to continue the dialogue and awareness for the next generation of writers, and publishers. We must insist on no more white washing of books, films, and other forms of art.
December 1, 2014 at 11:34 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks for the beautiful post-piboidmo post!
December 1, 2014 at 11:38 am
Daniela Weil
Vanessa, I loved your blog, it was very emotional to me, how much those ezra pictures meant to you not only because you saw yourself, but also because of the difficulty you had w words. It gave me the extra awareness of what pictures mean to dyslexic kids, something i hadn’t thought of. As an illustrator, mother of a brown skinned girl, with the same goals as you, that meant a lot.
December 1, 2014 at 11:42 am
Josh Funk
awesome stuff!
December 1, 2014 at 11:43 am
Theresa Love
I too loved Snowy Day and I am in tears now – because I just realized why I loved Peter so much…because he looks just like me. I even have my own personal Peter and Willie stuffed characters. Thank you for sharing your story – it touched my heart. We need diverse books.
December 1, 2014 at 11:45 am
creationsbymit
A truly wonderful post! The Snowy Day was one of my favorites as a child, even though I did not recognize the significance of the character at the time. I LOVE that it has so much meaning for you! Diversity IS important for children’s books. For my 2nd job as a freelance illustrator, right out of college, over 20 years ago, I was asked by the client to depict a teacher giving a lecture with young children sitting at his feet. I remember I wasn’t given much more direction than that, but created children of all different ethnic backgrounds. Because to me, it just MADE SENSE. All children should be able to have a choice of books they can personally identify with.
December 1, 2014 at 1:49 pm
ednamole
Ooh my word how sweet! Wow!!! I love your comment. “All children should be able to have a choice of books they can personally identify with.” Very wise words. Hugs!
December 1, 2014 at 11:46 am
Dawn
Beautiful post! I love your illustrations.
December 1, 2014 at 11:47 am
julie rowan zoch
Thanks for sharing your superb illustration work and thoughts on diversity in picture books, Vanessa.
December 1, 2014 at 11:51 am
bucherwurm65
Thank you for this beautiful post. I love Ezra Jack Keats! I read his stories to my pre-schoolers every year!
December 1, 2014 at 11:53 am
Tracey M. Cox
Thanks for your words, Vanessa! I’m a mixed mutt 😉 and welcome the diversity in books we are seeing now. I must say your new pb has been put on my “I Want This” list!!! I love Bob Marley and that song!
December 1, 2014 at 11:55 am
Jacqueline
This is a beautiful testament to the power of picture books–and a great reminder as we prepare to turn some of those 30 ideas into stories. Thanks!
December 1, 2014 at 11:58 am
Teresa Daffern
Your work is just phenomenal. Thank you for sharing your powerful story.
December 1, 2014 at 11:59 am
Marla
Can anyone suggest any resources for illustrators who want to make culturally diverse books?
December 1, 2014 at 12:08 pm
Jewanna Carver
I was lucky enough to attend a school district recently voted “most diverse in the nation.” I know many children miss out on the chance to be surrounded by kids that do and don’t look like them. I’m hoping to bring a little more diversity to picture books! Thanks for the post.
December 1, 2014 at 12:12 pm
klmcmorranmaus
What a wonderful post. Thank you for sharing your story.
December 1, 2014 at 12:29 pm
danielledufayet
Diversity rocks! That’s all I have to say:)
December 1, 2014 at 12:33 pm
Gail Maki Wilson
I’ve always loved the influence his work has had on yours. So fun to here you tell that story! Thanks Vanessa!
December 1, 2014 at 12:43 pm
Joanne Sher
LOVE this – thanks you so VERY much. I loved that book too – still do. Beautiful!
December 1, 2014 at 12:44 pm
jdewdropsofink
I have to say I have a problem with how the word diversity is being used now. The very use of it in the context its taken on is against it’s own definition. I love the idea behind it, but I think what we lack is universality in books. Vanessa’s experience proves that point so clearly. We need universal books–books that take in children from all over with various backgrounds, etc. I purposely pick up books with characters who aren’t visually or in other ways the same as my children because I want them to see the world through all children’s eyes and understand how much they have in common even while they explore the different experiences showcased in the books. It’s a knitting of hearts.
December 1, 2014 at 1:53 pm
ednamole
Sooooo True! This is what it’s going to take to change the word and I so agree with you. I do greeting cards that people have referred to as ,”Mixed Love” and while it sounds sweet I thought that, “Blended Love” better suited the card line. I totally get what you are saying and will try to really use, ” Universaility” when speaking about the subject! Thanks so much for sharing.
December 1, 2014 at 12:49 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Truly Inspirational and thoughtful. Thanx for sharing.
December 1, 2014 at 12:50 pm
Meridth Gimbel (@Meridth_Gimbel)
Oh Ms. V you are so incredible! I had no idea that you weren’t able to get into schools because they were white schools. That makes me so sad. But you are such an inspiration. You took all that negativity and all those painful experiences and turned it into a collection of incredibly inspiring work. I love that about you. The book publishing community is blessed to have you. Thanks for the post dear friend!
December 1, 2014 at 1:55 pm
ednamole
Hey Mama! If it didn’t happen I wouldn’t have a story to tell. All things work together for the good. It’s made me so much more rounded and blessed. I know what it’s like to be included and excluded. Even better I have you! Love you always!
V
December 1, 2014 at 12:52 pm
teresarobeson
It never ceases to amaze me how A Snowy Day touches so many people, even those of us who aren’t African American. I’m Chinese by birth, but A Snowy Day was/is one of my all-time favorite picture books. I used to run my fingers over the pages, wanting to absorb everything about and in that story. I felt like Peter could have been me, even though I am neither a boy, not Black.
Thank you for sharing your perspective, Vanessa!
December 1, 2014 at 12:52 pm
Alison Goldberg
Thank you for this post. Your work is beautiful.
December 1, 2014 at 12:55 pm
Ashley Bohmer
This is wonderfully expressed. 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 12:58 pm
Judy Cox
Thanks for your insights! I love The Snowy Day, too. I read it to every single class I taught and used it as inspiration for torn paper collages. EJK’s books are true classics. May our books speak to children in the same way!
December 1, 2014 at 1:06 pm
Cindy C.
Thank you Vanessa for your story. And your illustrations are fantastic!
December 1, 2014 at 1:08 pm
Buffy Silverman
Another Snowy Day fan here, too. Thanks for your beautiful artwork and inspiration.
December 1, 2014 at 1:12 pm
Lauri Meyers
Beautiful, Vanessa.
December 1, 2014 at 1:14 pm
katrinamoorebooks
Thank you for your story and inspiration!
December 1, 2014 at 1:14 pm
Romelle Broas
Vanessa, thanks for being a “multicultural illustrator!” I like that title. You do beautiful work.
December 1, 2014 at 1:18 pm
zebrakitchens
I love hearing adult’s stories about how they struggled as a child. Such a life makes it so much easier to have a tender heart for the little ones.
Thanks for sharing your art work, it’s extremely pleasing and beautiful.
Lynn
December 1, 2014 at 1:21 pm
Maria Oka
So poignant and true! Thank you so much for sharing your story. Your illustrations are absolutely gorgeous!
December 1, 2014 at 1:28 pm
Marty McCormick
Vanessa, thanks for sharing your early experiences with us. Your crayon drawings on the stove are priceless! May you have the same wonderful impact on countless young lives that EJK had on you. Love your illustrations. They’re amazing.
December 1, 2014 at 1:28 pm
tanjabauerle
Thank you for your wonderful post. I love your illustrations. Happy creating to you. T
December 1, 2014 at 1:29 pm
Frances Brown
Vanessa, BRAVA! You found your illustrating voice, and very beautiful it is too. Your post stirred up conflicting emotions in me, one of sadness and one of delight. Thanks to your wonderful Miss Russell to bring you your beginning! Love your writing, too. 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 1:58 pm
ednamole
Hello Frances, It is emotional for me to share, but I find what doesn’t break or kill us makes us fat for the journey. These things while painful are a part of what makes me love creating children’s book! I got to feel the pain and the joy. So we experience this together! Sending you a massive hug today with a lot of creative spirit!
December 1, 2014 at 1:44 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thank you, Vanessa, for sharing your advice, your inspiration and your gift!
December 1, 2014 at 1:45 pm
MaryAnne Locher
Beautiful post!
December 1, 2014 at 1:47 pm
Sue Heavenrich
I love Snowy Day. And I love your story of how you came to illustrate. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.
December 1, 2014 at 1:48 pm
Charlotte Gunnufson
Thank you for sharing this lovely, heart-touching story. One more reason to celebrate the awesome power of picture books: diversity, inclusion, an invitation sent to everyone.
December 1, 2014 at 1:50 pm
kristin gray
Oh my heavens, all of that art is so inviting and delightful! Thank you for sharing your story.
December 1, 2014 at 1:59 pm
Sandy Powell
Beautiful illustrations. Thank you for sharing your story.
December 1, 2014 at 2:03 pm
Hayley B
May our beautiful Peter ever trudge through THE SNOWY DAY. Thanks, Vanessa!
December 1, 2014 at 2:06 pm
LovableLobo
Delightful post and wonderful art, Vanessa!
December 1, 2014 at 2:10 pm
ednamole
Tara, I sit here with tears in my eyes cause sometimes you just wonder why certain things happen to you. If feel there is a reason for everything. Even the things that are so painful we would much rather forget. Sometimes sharing my story can be scary and painful, but somehow I knew that I could share it here with you and your wonderful followers. I thank you so much for even asking me to do a post. I am both honored and humbled all at the same time. Thank you for believing me. To the readers and followers of this blog who have left so many, many kind words I humbly say to you, ” From the bottom of my heart Thank You All”. PiBoldMo is so very important and I hope that it will continue to be a place of encouragement and adventure for both writer and illustrator. Wishing you all the very best filled with Joy, story and picture for a Happy Holiday and a creative New Year!
December 1, 2014 at 4:29 pm
Tara Lazar
Thank you, Vanessa. I am so honored to host you!
December 1, 2014 at 2:13 pm
Jabeen
Thank you for sharing your story, it was heart warming. Your work is so vibrant, thanks again.
December 1, 2014 at 2:20 pm
Susie Sawyer
What a touching story. Thank you, Vanessa, for sharing this part of yourself with us. I’m so happy for you – that you’ve found success doing what you love (and what a gift you have!). Thank you for striving to bring diversity to children’s books, where it is so desperately needed.
December 1, 2014 at 2:22 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
I loved hearing about your inspiration and reading of The Snowy Day at B&N. Very touching.
Thanks for sharing your art and thoughts on diversity in children’s books.
December 1, 2014 at 2:42 pm
Nancy Colle
Always loved Peter and his snowsuit! A very heartfelt post, -thank you.
December 1, 2014 at 2:45 pm
Lynn
This, to me, is what writing for children is all about — touching hearts and lives in a positive way. Picture books can be extraordinary avenues to adventure and revelation. Thank you, Vanessa, for sharing a little of yourself with us. And how marvellous your parents supplied you with paper for your artistic flare to grow in the right places. 🙂
– Lynn A. Davidson
December 1, 2014 at 2:46 pm
katmaz2012
Thank you for sharing your inspirational words and beautiful art. I can’t help but think about how your words really “show” the importance of diversity in children’s books.
December 1, 2014 at 2:47 pm
Robyn Campbell
Wonderful post. I am thrilled for your success. Your art is fabulous. Your thoughts like gold. Thank you, thank you!
December 1, 2014 at 2:50 pm
Anna Levin
Heartwarming post thank you Vanessa!
December 1, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Kelly Ramsdell Fineman
“Ezra Jack Keats made me feel so special because he thought that I should have been in a children’s book all along. I wasn’t an afterthought!”
That quote made me a bit teary, I must say. Thank you for this post!
December 1, 2014 at 2:51 pm
bookseedstudio
Dear Vanessa,
I luv hearing about Miss Russell and your discovery once & then rediscovery of THE SNOWY DAY by the great Ezra Jack Keats. Thank you for sharing about dyslexia & about your artist journey. Your illustrations are stunning. I look forward to knowing more of your titles as the years flow by.
~ j a n
December 1, 2014 at 2:59 pm
gabisnyder
Thanks for sharing your story, Vanessa. I like what you wrote about all children needing to see themselves in picture books. Your illustrations are beautiful!
December 1, 2014 at 3:01 pm
Cindy Greene
Wonderful post and beautiful illustrations! Thanks for sharing.
December 1, 2014 at 3:07 pm
Anne Lei-Yeung So
I also loved the Snowy Day as a child 😉 I wanted to have his red coat. Your own illustrations are amazing.
December 1, 2014 at 3:13 pm
Sydney O'Neill
Vanessa, I wish Ezra Jack Keats could read this. You’ve given him the most wonderful tribute an author can get. May all children see themselves and their amazing potential in our stories.
December 1, 2014 at 3:29 pm
ednamole
From your mouth to God’s ears! I meet him in my dreams. I love that wonderful loving man. Thanks so much Sydney you made my day! Best to you always.
December 1, 2014 at 3:16 pm
jeanjames
Oh I just love your illustrations!! What a wonderful post. I remember The Snowy Day as a kid, but to see it through your eyes has been quite an experience. Thanks for such a great post.
December 1, 2014 at 3:26 pm
Marcy P.
I love this… and I love your story and how you are passing on this kindness. And it’s not just for kids to recognize themselves… but if ignorance spurs hate or indifference… then I want my kids to be informed and to feel “comfortable” with people who are different than they are- so they can LOVE and show compassion and a kindred heart for humanity. SO thank you for being part of what makes that happen 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 3:30 pm
ednamole
Thank you kindly Marcy! Big Hugs!
December 1, 2014 at 3:28 pm
Sherry Walz
Vanessa, this is a special post! Thanks for sharing from the heart!
December 1, 2014 at 3:28 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks for saying so eloquently why all children need to see themselves in books.
December 1, 2014 at 3:41 pm
orthodoxmom3
I loved what you said – ALL children should see themselves in picture books….it’s got me thinking outside my normal box for a moment…we’ll see what comes of it. Thank you.
December 1, 2014 at 3:44 pm
sardyhar
I love Ezra Jack Keats, too. Some picture books change you. They’re able to give you something precious that might be absent in other media. I agree it’s important that they be as broadly representative as possible.
December 1, 2014 at 3:47 pm
cmwritergirl23
This is such a wonderful post. It is so powerful to find yourself somewhere in the pages of a book. Thank you for sharing your experience.
December 1, 2014 at 3:50 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Thank you for sharing such a lovely, inspiring story. I’ve always loved THE SNOWY DAY!! Wonderful post, Vanessa!
December 1, 2014 at 4:01 pm
kiwiskan
love this inspiring story. Thank you
December 1, 2014 at 4:04 pm
kirsticall
I love your illustrations and story.
December 1, 2014 at 4:19 pm
Dorothy Wiese
Thank you for your beautiful story and illustrations. I am very glad that you have overcome obstacles and become successful! Your story is inspirational.
December 1, 2014 at 4:25 pm
lindaschueler
I loved “The Snowy Day” when I was young. Still do! Thanks for sharing your beautiful art.
December 1, 2014 at 4:36 pm
mona861
Thanks for your story. What a wonderful woman Miss Russell was. Certainly a woman before her time!
December 1, 2014 at 4:44 pm
Lynnor Bontigao
Beautiful illustrations! Thank you for sharing your personal experience.
December 1, 2014 at 4:47 pm
Sandy Perlic
LOVE your illustrations – so nice to see how easily you incorporate different races into your artwork… a true reflection of the world we live in.
December 1, 2014 at 4:52 pm
Kathryn Howard
Thanks for all you’re doing to enrich the lives of young children!
December 1, 2014 at 4:57 pm
mariagianferrari
Your illustrations are beautiful, Vanessa! Thanks for sharing your story!
December 1, 2014 at 4:59 pm
Doris Stone
Beautiful post, Vanessa. Thank you for reminding us that we are writing and illustrating for all children and that
December 1, 2014 at 5:17 pm
Jennifer Sommer
Thanks for sharing. This reminds me that each story we create might affect a child for the rest of their life, as “Snowy Day” did for you. I’m not an illustrator, but perhaps my words can have the same effect.
December 1, 2014 at 5:25 pm
Susanne
I love Peter, his red snowsuit and Miss Russell too!
December 1, 2014 at 5:37 pm
Michael Karg
Thanks for sharing Vanessa- Your work has a wonderful vibrancy!
December 1, 2014 at 5:41 pm
Nicole Popel
I loved reading this, Vanessa. I have worked with many children over the years, teaching them to read when other teachers and parents have failed (I’m a special education teacher). It’s like finding the right key to open the lock…you just have to search for it, and it may take awhile, but it can be done. Love your illustrations!
December 1, 2014 at 5:47 pm
Sally R. Flannery
Love this!
December 1, 2014 at 6:14 pm
Dani Duck
Oh “The Snowy Day” was one of my favorites when I was a kid. The artwork was just spectacular. It is so important that kids see themselves in picture books. I love when my son says “that’s me, David Duck!” when I read him a book. He finds himself in characters that look like him, or in books where the animals are the characters. Thank you so much for writing this post. Your illustrations are lovely!
December 1, 2014 at 6:16 pm
Leslie Raith
Wonderful! Keats also reached many of us Moms and their kids of very pale color, with his delightful story. I am currently working with a high school student illustrator and asked her to please make my character look like her, a lovely Hispanic teen.
December 1, 2014 at 8:20 pm
ednamole
That is sooooo awesome! Thanks so much for you kind words.
December 1, 2014 at 6:36 pm
Rachel H
Thanks for sharing your Snowy Day story. That book has always been one of my favorites. My mom bought it for me in the 70’s, and I bought it and a few other Ezra Jack Keats books for my kids in the 90’s. A wonderful story, the art and words have stood-up beautifully through the years.
December 1, 2014 at 7:15 pm
Holly Ruppel
Vanessa, your words made my heart swell and my eyes tear up. Thank you so much for sharing your story of diversity and feeling of acceptance when you read THE SNOWY DAY. Also, I adore your vibrant, happy illustrations!
December 1, 2014 at 8:19 pm
ednamole
Thank you so much Holly! Sending you a big ol’ hug!!
December 1, 2014 at 7:28 pm
Joyce Tucker
That which was meant for evil! And yet!!!
What a wonderful teacher to have shared a book that would change your life. And that you took that and ran with it…to places most people only dream of. Thank you so much for such a beautiful post.
December 1, 2014 at 8:19 pm
ednamole
Joyce you have said well! Oh my goodness! God is awesome!
December 1, 2014 at 7:29 pm
Janny J Johnson
Perfect timing with our current news, as well as what we should be thinking about — all the time.
December 1, 2014 at 7:35 pm
Jill Siegel
Beautiful post! Thank you! 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 7:37 pm
pearlz
Reblogged this on Pearlz Dreaming.
December 1, 2014 at 8:05 pm
shirley johnson
Great illustrations! Thanks for sharing.
December 1, 2014 at 8:07 pm
lexicalcreations
That’s the kind of diversity I want to see more of, too. 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 8:09 pm
Sue Rankin
I love this post! What a moment! And the description of Miss Russell… Please tell me she’s in one of your books…
December 1, 2014 at 8:20 pm
Cindy S
This goes to show how really important picture books are and they need to represent ALL kids. Thanks for the post.
December 1, 2014 at 8:38 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
This is such a moving story, Vanessa. Relating to a picture book character from the heart is what makes them shine. Your connection to Peter is a bond that cannot be broken. It has carried you to do something you are passionate about and now look at YOU shine! Your illustrations are precious!
December 1, 2014 at 9:03 pm
Karen Lawler
Those picture books of our childhood are some of the most POWERFUL!! I am so happy yours stuck with you and had a positive effect. That teacher was one wise person too. Look what she gave you. LOVE 🙂 I have enjoyed your illustrations as well. 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 9:14 pm
Debbie Levy
Beautiful post, Vanessa, from a beautiful person.
December 3, 2014 at 9:15 am
ednamole
Thanks so much Debbie! Love you !
December 1, 2014 at 9:25 pm
Joanne Roberts
I’ve been a fan of your work for awhile now. You’ll be happy to know that it gives me the same warm fuzzy feeling I get when I view Jenny’s Hat or A Letter To Amy. Thanks for sharing your story.
December 1, 2014 at 9:45 pm
SevenAcreSky
Beautiful share, Vanessa. I understand the experience of reading a book through tears, having happened upon books later in life that were treasures in my childhood. Thanks.
December 1, 2014 at 10:26 pm
megmillerwrites
Love your illustrations Vanessa! Thanks for the great post. 😀
December 1, 2014 at 10:31 pm
Sandie Sing
Vanessa, you are definitely right about being a child and wanting to identify with a story that you could relate with the character. I could not find any Asian book as a young kid. Now, you could find many books written by Asian writers. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
December 1, 2014 at 10:49 pm
Gloria Amescua
Wonderful story of how she became who she is.
December 1, 2014 at 10:52 pm
Deborah Patz
Thank you for sharing your story.
December 1, 2014 at 10:59 pm
sherry alexander
Love your illustrations. Thank you for sharing your experience. As a child, I could not find my Cherokee-Irish self in books either. The world is a better place when kids relate to characters in books.
December 1, 2014 at 11:01 pm
Amanda Hopper
You’re right, every child should be able to see themselves in books! Thanks for the wonderful inspiration!
December 1, 2014 at 11:06 pm
Jenny Blum
Great post Vanessa. I think it is just as important for children to be able to see or imagine themselves in the picture book stories as and it is to teach them to read and love books. Maybe it is the first step.
December 1, 2014 at 11:10 pm
Nini Engel
I was just listening to a story from the non-fiction book, Nurture Shock, about how white parents don’t talk to their children about race. The authors related a study done in an elementary school, where they read the first graders, T’was the Night B’fore Christmas, by Melodye Rosales, which features a black Santa. Initially, many of the children, black and white, struggled to accept the idea of a black Santa. Disbelief changed to theories of there being two Santas working together, helping each other out. It was fascinating.
December 1, 2014 at 11:46 pm
omilaju
Vanessa, I love your work and always will. I am very happy that you are so busy I can’t buy your books as fast as they come out. Thank you for your inspiration and career.
December 2, 2014 at 12:11 am
bluerabbit
Thanks for the lovely post and the pictures.
December 2, 2014 at 12:43 am
marlainagray
I love “The Snowy Day” and I absolutely love your artwork, Vanessa!
December 3, 2014 at 9:14 am
ednamole
Thanks so much Marlaingray!
December 2, 2014 at 12:48 am
Keila Dawson
Thanks for sharing your story AND your talent Vanessa! Love your art.
December 2, 2014 at 12:51 am
hethfeth
Vanessa, thank you for this first-hand account on the importance of diverse representation of children in literature. Your artwork is amazing! I just love the facial expressions and body language in your work.
December 2, 2014 at 1:25 am
Christine M. Irvin
Great post! Thanks for sharing!
December 2, 2014 at 1:37 am
amymariesmith
The Snowy Day is a forever favorite of mine. It is such a special book to me — so is A Letter to Amy. So awesome to hear how it inspired you. Thank you for sharing your beautiful work, and words, Vanessa!
December 2, 2014 at 2:02 am
Laurie L Young
Such a beautiful and moving post. You have a new fan.
December 2, 2014 at 7:27 am
ednamole
Thanks everyone for your kind and ver encouraging words. I so appreciate each and everyone of your beautiful comments. Thanks so much.
December 2, 2014 at 6:39 am
Maria J Cuesta
Thank you! Love it! I fully agree all kids should find themselves in picture books. Thanks for the heads up! 🙂
December 2, 2014 at 7:09 am
aliciaminor
Another beautiful story and another book to read. Diversity is always a winner in picture books. Thanks for sharing.
December 2, 2014 at 7:36 am
Rick Starkey
Great post. Thanks for sharing. Books should be for every child.
December 2, 2014 at 9:55 am
rowenarae
Thank you for the inspirational words, Vanessa! And your illustrations are gorgeous — so full of heart and happiness.
December 2, 2014 at 10:02 am
Amy Houts
Thank you for helping me to understand your point of view. I’ve always loved the book, The Snowy Day.
December 2, 2014 at 10:08 am
Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle)
We love One Love at our home! Thank you for sharing your sweet childhood story 🙂
December 2, 2014 at 10:28 am
Anita Banks
Beautiful artwork!
December 2, 2014 at 10:52 am
Patricia Toht
Wonderful illustrations, Vanessa! How lucky WE are that you found Ezra Jack Keats and took that inspiration to heart.
December 2, 2014 at 10:55 am
angelapadron
Such an important post – Ezra Jack Keats is one of my favorite author/illustrators. Love Venessa’s illustrations, too!
December 2, 2014 at 11:39 am
Kelly Vavala
Thank you for sharing your inner thoughts with us Vanessa and the reminder that we all share the same soil, hopes, dreams and wishes. You do sometimes wonder how things happen to you. Often times we don’t understand it until one day…you realize what you had to go through to make you the person you are today (and it sounds like you’re a lovely person)! When you read The Snowy Day it, turned out to be an inspirational day in your heart! I thank God for people like you who have the passion!
December 2, 2014 at 12:01 pm
Rebecca Gomez
I love your story, Vanessa! The Snowy Day is one of my favorite winter books. You’re right. It is simply a beautiful book!
December 2, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Debbie Austin
Thank you, Vanessa. I love what you said about it being important that all children see themselves in picture books.
December 2, 2014 at 1:38 pm
Ali Pichardo
Vanessa, your words melted my heart and brought tears to my eyes. How blessed you were to have had Ms. Russel and “The Snowy Day,” in your life. Your artwork is amazing, another blessing for you. You have blessed us with your post. I will keep it in my heart forever. I hope to bring your message into my stories. I would love children to see themselves in my picture books. Thank you for your wonderful post!
December 2, 2014 at 1:40 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Vanessa: Thank you. Celebrate Diversity! ~Suzy Leopold
December 2, 2014 at 2:13 pm
Rita Allmon
Vanessa, thanks for sharing this beautiful post!
December 2, 2014 at 2:19 pm
Erin Nowak
Thank you Vanessa. My children attend public school in a culturally and economically diverse city. I volunteer at their book fairs and see how the lack of universality and diversity in books affects kids. It broke my heart to discover at one fair that the only book featuring a black female was Doc McStuffins, or Whoopi Goldberg’s Sugar Plum Ballerina series…not much choice there. I worked with one little girl for quite a while to try to to find something at her reading level, and within her area of interest (which I believe also included seeing a character that looked like her)…and still didn’t feel like what she ended up leaving with met her needs. It shouldn’t be that hard. Looking forward to hopefully being part of the change.
December 2, 2014 at 3:14 pm
Nancy Kotkin
What I really love about your work is that children of different cultures appear together, as friends. That is the message we need in all children’s books.
December 2, 2014 at 4:34 pm
Pam Miller
Vanessa, thanks for sharing your story and artful books. In the 50’s, I was a child with ONE African-American friend. I lived in a housing development. She lived in a near-by house with a big porch where we played. We had the same kind of doll – a white rubber baby doll. Many years later, when shopping for my daughter, I saw what appeared to be the same doll – one black and one white. And I wished again that my friend, Silvia, had not moved away so soon.
December 2, 2014 at 5:08 pm
Vicki Wilke
Thank you Vanessa for your very moving words about diversity. Our hope to make our world more peaceful and loving is through the children and as authors we are so privileged to be able to impart those dreams to them.
December 3, 2014 at 9:14 am
ednamole
Thank you so much Vicki! That is my hope as well. Best to you.
December 2, 2014 at 7:01 pm
Joan Kassmann
Picture books are so powerful. For every book we, as writers and illustrators, create will be special in someone else’s life. Thank you for your post!
December 2, 2014 at 7:16 pm
June Smalls
Everyone should be able to see themselves and open their eyes to others. Beautiful post. Thank you.
December 2, 2014 at 7:53 pm
carolmunrojww
It was nice to hear about diversity in books from your POV, Vanessa. What a touching moment that must have been in B&N that day. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us.
December 2, 2014 at 8:12 pm
Joan Waites
I checked The Snowy Day out of my library over and over again as a child. Still probably one of my all time favorite books, and when I do school visits and talk about some of the books I treasured growing up, the kids almost ways connect with that book as they know and love it too all these years later.
December 2, 2014 at 9:00 pm
Andrea J Loney
I cannot look at the cover of your book EVERY LITTLE THING without smiling. It gets me every time. The joy in your work just leaps off the page. Thank you for doing what you do.
December 2, 2014 at 9:58 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Your post drives home how life-changing it is for kids to see characters that look like themselves. And the best of those books are ones like The Snowy Day that stay classics because they resonate on some level with everyone. I’d also like to see more PBs that show kids with dyslexia so those kids don’t feel so alone.
December 2, 2014 at 10:55 pm
Liz Steffenson
Your post made me cry. Very touching. As a “whitey”, hard to know what it is like in another’s shoes. Thanks for shedding light.
December 3, 2014 at 9:13 am
ednamole
Awwwwwwwh Liz…… Don’t you just love Ezra Jack Keat tho?? Sending you a huge hug.
December 3, 2014 at 1:10 am
Jennifer Huls
Love your ideas reminds us to observe and keep an open mind when creating
December 3, 2014 at 1:27 am
Ronna Mandel
We’re HUGE Ezra Jack Keats at our house, too. I’ll never forget the day my son, new to America, having been born in London and living in a very multicultural society there, was asked to do a self-portrait in Kindergarten. He drew himself as brown skinned. He is White/Jewish, but very, very dark olive skinned like my husband. I was so sad when the teacher made him redo the picture. Looking forward to seeing what you illustrate next.
December 3, 2014 at 1:35 am
Ashley Bankhead
Thanks for sharing this post. I enjoyed reading about your experience with picture books.
December 3, 2014 at 6:15 am
Cassandra Federman
what a heartwarming story! thanks for sharing!
December 3, 2014 at 8:21 am
Louann Brown
Jack Ezra Keats is a master. Thanks for paying such a nice tribute to his work.
December 3, 2014 at 11:26 am
Shari Schwarz
Wonderful post and I’m a fan of your illustrations!
December 3, 2014 at 12:23 pm
cantsing1
Yes, yes, yes. So glad you told your story. And let me add a nudge to all writers/illustrators. Please consider expanding diversity to those with physical differences. Today, they face the same problem. Honor and recognition to all!
December 3, 2014 at 2:05 pm
Aunt Alice
Crayon drawings on the stove! I’m surprised my own kids never thought of that one. 🙂
December 4, 2014 at 6:58 am
Rebekah Hoeft
Loved that Keats book as well, though for me it was because it introduced a girl who lived surrounded by fields and trees to a world and person different than mine and me, while making me feel connected at the same time.
December 4, 2014 at 9:56 am
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
What a beautiful post. Thank you. Love your work!
December 4, 2014 at 1:28 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
Beautiful post. I especially love the part — Once upon a time…
December 5, 2014 at 7:07 am
Carol Cole
Snowy Day was one of the books from childhood that stands out for me, also. As a white child in the south, I was so curious about black children. There were none in my school, none in my neighborhood, and none in my church. When I read that book, I was surprised to see all that Peter had in common with me as a child, regardless of color.
I loved reading your blog this morning! Thank you.
December 15, 2014 at 12:00 pm
ednamole
Now that is what I’m talking about Carol! Yes, yes, yes!!! How awesome. Sending you Holiday Cheer!
December 5, 2014 at 8:25 pm
Kelly Russell Jaques
Loved this post, and loved your beautiful illustrations that include all children.
December 6, 2014 at 11:31 pm
Gretchen McLellan
Dear Vanessa, I felt the same way you did discovering Peter when I first read a book that addressed me, an Army brat. Multiculturalism must include not just ethnic or racial minorities, but cultural minorities as well. How often do military kids see themselves in print? Our adult politics get in the way of representing their reality. I hope someday you can illustrate books with multicultural military kids as characters.
Sent from my iPhone
December 15, 2014 at 11:59 am
ednamole
Gretchen!!!! oh my word! I just loved reading your note! What a fabulous idea. I have been rolling this one around in my heart and head for a while now. Wishing you and yours a wonderful Holiday!
December 7, 2014 at 11:47 am
calisue
Excellent post, Vanessa!
December 7, 2014 at 12:29 pm
lidia varesco design (@lsvdesign)
Beautiful post! I’m also enjoying reading the comments about the various interpretations of diversity. My toddler is Filipino-Italian-Croatian-American and Ive been searching for books that would reflect his diverse cultural background (I did find one called I Am Flippish by Leslie Ryan about a Filipino-Irish boy). On the last day of PiBoIdMo, my son gave me a wonderful idea for a diverse story that I’m excited to bring to life. Reading your post was perfect timing!
December 8, 2014 at 5:27 pm
claireannette1
Great post – thanks for sharing. My children like to see themselves in books, too. It is hard to find books with multi-ethnic families but I know that is changing. How much is up to the illustrator? Many books are about universal childhood experiences and should show children of all ethnicities in them.
December 9, 2014 at 1:42 am
Kathryn Ault Noble
Thank you for sharing your thoughts about how the book inspired you. One of my former students told me she had not seen herself in books as a child. Her words pierced me. I made a decision to change my illustrations, and I had to admit that I had not even studied on how to paint all the different colors of skin. It was very eye opening to realize how narrow I had been.
December 15, 2014 at 3:36 pm
John Strong
Beautiful work!!! I love it! 🙂
December 24, 2014 at 8:00 am
Nat Keller
Inspirational post Vanessa– thank you for your insight.