This month, authors made their return to the book events arena; launched debuts in their hometowns; and brought music to their literary festivities; and a new children’s book exhibition opens.
Fallon in Love
Comedian Jimmy Fallon made his first book appearance since the pandemic, for his latest children’s book Nana Loves You More (Feiwel and Friends). Drawing an audience of more than 200 at Barnes & Noble Union Square, the hybrid event included a reading from the author, a q&a with the audience, and an acoustic pandemic song. Watch the virtual event here.
Schu Takes Us Back to School
Librarian and literacy advocate John Schu launched his debut picture book, This Is a School, illustrated by Veronica Miller Jamison (Candlewick), at his hometown store, Anderson's Bookshop in Naperville, Ill. on April 4. The picture book features a school where every student can have their voice heard.
Rocking for Social Justice
On March 19, Oakland’s Fairyland Aesop Playhouse hosted a lively morning with Grammy-nominated hip-hop group Alphabet Rockers for their debut picture book You Are Not Alone (Sourcebooks Explore). The Rockers, including founders of the group Tommy Shepherd and Kaitlin McGaw, held a book signing, and the event featured a giveaway, a live musical performance, and dance party.
Picture the Dream
The New-York Historical Society welcomed visitors to their newest exhibition, Picture the Dream: The Story of the Civil Rights Movement Through Children's Books, on April 1. Curated by award-winning children’s author Andrea Davis Pinkney (above), the exhibit features picture books highlighting historical moments such as the Montgomery bus boycott and the Black Lives Matter movement. It’s open through April 24.
