The evening began with librarians Christine and Jordy playing the song “Celebration” to congratulate the dynamic duo on winning the Kirkus Prize for I Am Every Good Thing just last week. They are also the creative team behind the multi-award winning Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut.

During the conversation with librarians, Derrick and Gordon were asked a variety of questions that had been submitted by students in preparation activities throughout the week. Questions such as: “Where do you get your ideas?” “What are some of your favorite authors/books?” “What does the publishing process entail?” and “What do you find most challenging/fulfilling about collaborating with each other?” 

Derrick said that when thinking about which stories to write, he considers the question “whose story is not being told?” Both acknowledged that when they were growing up, they didn’t see books that represented them as African American boys so sharing positive Black experiences is a mission of theirs. They have taken inspiration from Black artists of the past such as poets like Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Derek Wolcott and musicians like Stevie Wonder, Prince, LL Cool J, and Run DMC. Derrick gave the advice to “never give up” after telling the story of how he didn’t get a book deal for seven years before he wrote Crown and Gordon told kids “don’t be afraid of making a mistake.” Often mistakes turn into something wonderful. 

The audience enjoyed hearing Derrick read I Am Every Good Thing as Gordon demonstrated his incredible talent by drawing a portrait of a young, Black boy for all to see. Students then were able to ask questions directly of the pair and the evening ended with a reminder that their books are currently available for purchase at the PA’s virtual book fair from now until November 20.