On Friday, October 28, the incomparable author/illustrator Vanessa Brantley-Newtonvisited FP Dalton. She is the illustrator of 99 children's books, including Becoming Vanessa and The King and Queen of Kindergarten. During her visit, Vanessa spoke with students in each grade about how she never saw characters who looked like her in books when she was younger. As a result, she has made it her mission to create books where all children can see themselves, and know that they matter. Her work was featured at the FP book fair from November 11-12.
Vanessa’s stories and illustrations celebrate the importance of acceptance and empowerment in shaping a young person’s life. During Vanessa’s visit, students heard about the author’s Gulla-Geechee heritage from the American South and the importance of representing all children in literature.
In addition, Vanessa answered questions and detailed her storytelling process. The children enjoyed hearing Vanessa’s tales and marveled at her delightful illustrations!