Authors @ AASL25 

Author Speed Dating

An author speed dating event provides attendees with the opportunity to connect with multiple authors in one session. Organized in 10-minute rounds, authors rotate from table to table, offering brief introductions followed by group conversation. This interactive format fosters meaningful exchanges and allows participants to engage with a wide range of authors in a more personal and conversational way.

Participating authors:

• Stephanie Bearce
• Megan E. Freeman
• Stuart Gibbs
• McCall Hoyle
• James Ponti
• Yves Stening
• steve Stinson
• Megan Walker

Open to all registrants, but seats are on a first-come basis.

Brave New Worlds: Resilience, Imagination, and the Power of Young Protagonists

Whether set in fantastical realms, future societies, or eerily empty towns, the stories crafted by these authors explore what happens when young people are pushed beyond the familiar and into the unknown. These authors span genres—from verse novels to speculative sci-fi to laugh-out-loud adventures—but they all highlight the inner strength of kids navigating extraordinary circumstances. With themes of survival, family, identity, and agency at the forefront, this conversation will offer insight into crafting stories that challenge—and empower—today’s readers.

Megan E. Freeman (Simon & Schuster) is the award-winning author of Alone, a middle grade novel-in-verse about a girl who wakes to find she’s the last person left in her town, and its companion, Away, which came out this year. With lyrical prose and emotional depth, Freeman explores themes of resilience, solitude, and survival. A poet and educator, she brings a unique voice to stories that challenge and empower young readers

Erin Soderberg Downing (Scholastic) is the author of numerous beloved chapter books and middle grade novels, including The Great Peach Experiment series and Puppy Pirates. Known for stories that blend humor, heart, and family dynamics, she creates adventurous, accessible reads that resonate with kids navigating life’s big and small challenges.

Sherri L. Smith (Penguin Young Readers) is the author of numerous acclaimed fiction and nonfiction books for young people, including American Wings: Chicago's Pioneering Black Aviators and the Race for Equality in the Sky, co-authored with Elizabeth Wein; Flygirl, the winner of the California Book Awards' Gold Medal; The Blossom and the Firefly, the winner of the Golden Kite Award from the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators; Orleans; and Who Were the Tuskegee Airmen?

Adventures in Science: Inspiring Young Readers to Explore, Discover, and Protect Our World

From moon missions to mountain treks to bilingual classrooms, this panel celebrates diverse paths to science literacy and empowerment through narrative. Join this panel for a dynamic conversation about how storytelling can ignite young readers’ passion for science, nature, and discovery. Whether through pulse-pounding adventure novels, imaginative science journeys, or culturally rich educational books, these creators bring STEM to life with heart, humor, and accessibility.

Roland Smith (Sleeping Bear Press) is a bestselling author of middle-grade adventure novels that blend thrilling storytelling with a passion for wildlife and conservation. His works, including Peak and Cryptid Hunters, inspire young readers to explore the natural world while tackling important environmental issues.

Jeffrey Bennett (Big Kid Science) is an astrophysicist and author known for making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for young readers. Through books like Max Goes to the Moon, he sparks curiosity about space and science with clear explanations and captivating storytelling.

O.C. Jaime (World of Thunders Books) is author of the debut Middle Grade Fantasy series The Seven Thunders, book 1 Rise of the Twinkling Heir. He is a bilingual senior analyst in the Washington, D.C. area, and a member of the Writer’s Center and the Steampunk Writers & Artists Guild. Drawing upon his background in science, mapping, worldbuilding, and storytelling, he has created in the Seven Thunders an immersive fantasy world.

Rooted in Story: Celebrating Identity, Legacy, and Joy in Children’s Literature

With perspectives spanning generations, geographies, and genres, this conversation will illuminate how stories rooted in authenticity and heart can help shape a more inclusive and inspired future for children’s literature. Hear from four award-winning authors and illustrators whose work centers the richness of identity, the depth of cultural legacy, and the everyday joys of childhood. Whether through verse, visual art, music, or memory, they craft stories that honor history, elevate underrepresented voices, and nurture pride and belonging in young readers.

Charnelle Pinkney Barlow (Random House Children’s Books) author-illustrator and member of the legendary Pinkney family, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow brings warmth and nostalgia to her storytelling. Her books, such as Little Rosetta and the Talking Guitar, blend family history with artistic flair. With a signature illustration style and a dedication to honoring legacy and community, Charnelle carries on her family's tradition of visual and literary excellence.

Olivia Abtahi (Penguin Young Readers) is a filmmaker and author. Her debut novel, Perfectly Parvin, received an SCBWI Golden Kite Honor, a YALSA Odyssey Honor, and numerous starred reviews. She is also the author of Azar on Fire and the forthcoming Rostam and the Red Dwarf. The Interpreter is her picture book debut. Olivia grew up in the DC area and now lives in Denver, Colorado, with her family.

Torrey Maldonado (Penguin Young Readers) is the author of many award-winning, popular middle grade novels, including Hands, What Lane?, and Tight. Just Right is his picture book debut. He is a teacher in Brooklyn, New York, where he was born and raised. His books reflect his students’ and his experiences.

STEM Readers to Budding Writers: Using Nonfiction Mentor Texts to Engage and Inspire Students

STEM books are often seen as natural bridges to science learning in classrooms and libraries, but these titles can also make powerful mentor texts for students as they write about their scientific learning. Four authors share insights into how they approach writing scientific topics in engaging and interesting ways for readers and how those skills may transfer to young writers.

Nell Cross Beckerman (Scholastic) is the author of beautifully crafted nonfiction picture books such as Down Under the Pier and When the Sky Glows. With lyrical language and a deep reverence for the natural world, she captures moments of awe that inspire environmental awareness and wonder. Her work invites readers to observe closely, think deeply, and appreciate the magic in everyday nature.

Charles R. Smith Jr. (Scholastic), an award-winning author, poet, and photographer, combines dynamic language and striking visuals to create nonfiction books that are rhythmic, bold, and empowering. His titles—including 28 Days: Moments in Black History That Changed the World and Brown Sugar Babe—celebrate African American history, identity, and resilience. Smith’s unique blend of poetry and photography makes his work especially engaging for visual and auditory learners.

Melissa Stewart (Scholastic) is a leading voice in children’s nonfiction, with over 200 science books to her name. Known for her meticulous research and engaging voice, she helps readers explore the natural world in titles like Whale Fall and Can an Aardvark Bark? Stewart is also an advocate for nonfiction literacy in classrooms and a thought leader on the craft of writing fact-based children’s literature.

Tom Bober, facilitator, is a school librarian at Captain Elementary in St. Louis, MO. He is a Library Journal Mover and Shaker, former Teacher in Residence at the Library of Congress, and author of the books Building News Literacy and Elementary Educator's Guide to Primary Sources, as well as his newest co-written title, Literature and Primary Sources: The Perfect Pairing for Student Learning.

Strong at the Broken Places: Writing Resilience in Middle-Grade Fiction

How do young characters find strength in struggle? And how can fiction help readers do the same? In this powerful and moving conversation, authors share how their stories reflect the real-life challenges kids face—from disability and loss to war, injustice, and mental health. This session celebrates fiction as a mirror and guide for children navigating a complex world.

Lauren Wolk (Penguin Young Readers) is an award–winning poet, artist, and novelist. She is the author of Echo Mountain, My Own Lightning, Newbery Honor–winner Wolf Hollow, and Scott O’Dell Award-winner Beyond the Bright Sea. Lauren was born in Baltimore and has since lived in California, Rhode Island, Minnesota, Canada, and Ohio. She now lives with her family on Cape Cod.

McCall Hoyle (Shadow Mountain)writes heartfelt stories about healing, connection, and the transformative power of animals and relationships. Her novels—including Stella and The Thing with Feathers—often center on characters facing mental health challenges or trauma, making her work especially meaningful for readers seeking stories of recovery, empathy, and inner strength.

Jennifer A. Nielsen (Scholastic) is the New York Times best-selling author of The False Prince, Resistance, and Lines of Courage. Known for gripping plots, strong-willed protagonists, and high-stakes themes, her historical and fantasy fiction empowers young readers to confront injustice and fight for what’s right—no matter the odds.

Smart, Brave & Totally Unstoppable: Empowering Kids Through Adventure and Imagination

What do a young spy, a zoo sleuth, a genius gamer, and a girl surviving alone in an abandoned town have in common? They’re all navigating challenges with courage, cleverness, and heart—and they’re all the brainchildren of the dynamic storytellers on this panel. From laugh-out-loud mysteries to poetic survival sagas, this panel will reveal how middle-grade fiction can entertain, educate, and empower—all at the same time.

James Ponti (Simon & Schuster), a New York Times best-selling author, is the creator of the City Spies, Framed!, and Sherlock Society series. Known for weaving humor, intelligence, and edge-of-your-seat mystery, Ponti’s books keep readers hooked from start to finish. His background in television writing brings cinematic flair and fast-paced storytelling to his work—making him a favorite among reluctant and avid readers alike.

Stuart Gibbs (Simon & Schuster) is the author of numerous wildly popular middle-grade series, including Spy School, FunJungle, and Moon Base Alpha. His books are packed with clever twists, laugh-out-loud moments, and smart protagonists who use their wits to navigate impossible situations. Gibbs’s signature blend of mystery and comedy has earned him a devoted fanbase across the country.

Stephanie Bearce (Shadow Mountain) is an award-winning author of more than 30 books for children, specializing in history, STEM, and creative nonfiction. A former teacher and gifted education specialist, she is passionate about turning curious kids into lifelong learners. Her popular Twisted True Tales and Top Secret Files series bring history’s strangest stories and hidden mysteries to life, making the past engaging and fun for young readers.

Tony Weaver Jr. (Mackin), is an award-winning author, educator, and the founder & CEO of Weird Enough Productions, whose mission is to create diverse narratives that uplift underrepresented voices. He is best known for Weirdo, a middle-grade graphic novel that reflects his own journey through bullying and mental health, and for The UnCommons, a webcomic series used as a tool for social-emotional learning in schools.

Finding Hope Through Story

In times of challenge and change, stories have the power to inspire resilience, courage, and hope. Join authors Sydney Dunlap and Ali Terese for an engaging conversation about the ways their books uplift readers, spark meaningful dialogue, and empower young people to imagine brighter possibilities for themselves and their communities. This session will highlight the role of literature in fostering empathy, nurturing optimism, and reminding us all of the transformative power of hope.

Ali Terese (Simon & Schuster) is a middle grade and YA author who writes funny and heartfelt stories including FREE PERIOD and VOTE FOR THE G.O.A.T.. Her work has been longlisted for the National Book Award, received starred reviews in School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly, an Audiofile Magazine Earphones Award, a Kids’ Indie Next selection, and spots on the American Library Association’s RISE list, the Chicago Public Schools Battle of the Books, Texas Lone Star Reading List, Garden State Teen Book Award List, and DC Three Stars Book Award List.

Sydney Dunlap (Follett Content) is an award-winning author and former elementary school teacher who has worked extensively with youth facing challenging circumstances. She writes heartfelt, hopeful middle-grade fiction that tackles difficult topics not often addressed in the genre. Her debut novel It Happened on Saturday (2023) explores issues around social media safety and has earned a Crystal Kite Honor, several medals, and is on multiple state reading lists. Her follow-up, Racing the Clouds, received a starred review from School Library Journal and has been praised for its sensitive representation of mental health.

Drawn to Story: Emotion, Identity, and Imagination in Visual Narratives

What happens when art and story intertwine? In this powerful conversation, these graphic novelists will explore how visual storytelling can reveal emotional truths, reflect identity, and invite readers into richly layered worlds. Anyone interested in the craft of storytelling through images, this panel celebrates the unique way visual literature helps young readers feel seen, understood, and inspired.

Daniel Miyares (Random House Children’s Books) is an award-winning illustrator and author known for deeply expressive picture books such as Float, Hope At Sea, and Night Out. With a style that ranges from lush and painterly to minimal and powerful, Miyares’s books often center on quiet moments of transformation, resilience, and imagination. His visual narratives leave lasting impressions, often saying as much with silence as with words.

Mika Song (Random House Children’s Books) is an author and illustrator best known for her Norma and Belly graphic novel series, including Donut Feed the Squirrels, which was recognized as a 2021 Eisner Award nominee. With a background in animation, she brings warmth, humor, and charm to stories that delight young readers.

Judd Winick (Random House Children’s Books) is a bestselling author and award-winning cartoonist, best known for his graphic novel series Hilo, a New York Times bestseller for young readers. His work spans comics, television, and children’s literature, where he combines humor, adventure, and heart to engage audiences of all ages.

Becoming Herself: Power, Identity, and Healing in Girls’ Coming-of-Age Stories

In this powerful conversation, three authors will explore what it means to grow up and grow into yourself through storytelling that blends reality, history, humor, and magic. From whisper-quiet moments of reflection to laugh-out-loud scenes of witchy mischief, their stories create space for young people to feel seen, understood, and unafraid to be themselves.

Laurie Halse Anderson (Simon & Schuster), the trailblazing, award-winning author of the Chains series, Fever 1793, Rebellion 1776, Speak, Shout, and Wintergirls, writes with unflinching honesty about trauma, healing, and the importance of finding your voice in a world that too often tries to silence it.

Tae Keller (Random House Children's Books), Newbery Medalist for When You Trap a Tiger, uses magical realism and emotional nuance to explore themes of grief, intergenerational connection, and the quiet strength it takes to speak your truth.

Megan Walker (Shadow Mountain), author of Lakeshire Park and Miss Newbury’s List, brings a fresh voice to historical romance, illuminating the ways young women carve out agency, resilience, and love for themselves in societies that seek to define them.

Kimberly Brubaker Bradley (Penguin Young Readers), grew up horse-obsessed in a tragically non-horsey place and family. When she was eighteen and went to college, she took the reins in her own hands and hasn't stopped riding since. Kim foxhunted, competed at mid-amateur levels of eventing, and was the longtime "Boss Mare" of the Holston Pony Club for kids in her Tennessee hometown—a big part of her inspiration for her new Ride On series—all while she was busy writing Newbery Honor-winning novels like The War That Saved My Life and Fighting Words. Kim is a fierce advocate for horses and the value of the human-horse connection.

Storytelling That Sticks: Inspiring Young Minds & Honest Hearts

Join four dynamic authors as they explore the power of storytelling—from heartwarming picture books to thought-provoking nonfiction. This diverse panel of writers brings together a blend of imagination, truth, humor, and history, offering insight into how stories shape empathy, identity, and learning across ages.

Steve Stinson (Stinson Art) is a talented author and illustrator whose vibrant artwork and engaging stories have captivated readers for years. With a background in journalism and commercial art, Stinson brings humor and heart to every page, creating memorable characters that both educate and entertain.

Lindsay Leslie (Sleeping Bear Press) writes imaginative and whimsical stories for children that spark creativity and curiosity. Known for her fun wordplay and relatable characters, Leslie’s books are classroom favorites and beloved bedtime stories. She is passionate about encouraging literacy through playful storytelling.

Frank Murphy (Sleeping Bear Press) is an acclaimed children’s author who focuses on stories that inspire, educate, and empower. With a special interest in historical figures and important life lessons, Murphy’s books often highlight themes of courage, kindness, and leadership, making complex topics accessible for young readers.

Christopher Stewart (Lerner) is a gifted storyteller known for his emotionally resonant nonfiction works. Drawing from personal experiences and a keen sense of observation, Stewart’s writing explores the depths of human emotion, perseverance, and self-discovery. His works have been praised for their honesty and immersive narrative style.

Stories That Shape Us: Identity, Empathy, and Curiosity in Children’s Literature

What does it mean to write stories that help children not only learn about the world, but about themselves? In this unique panel, authors come together to explore how books can serve as mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors for young readers. From emotionally rich narratives about resilience and belonging, to imaginative explorations of food, culture, and history, these authors bring diverse lenses to the page—but are united in their mission to spark connection, curiosity, and courage in children. This panel is a powerful conversation about literature’s role in helping kids grow into informed, empathetic, and self-assured individuals.

Yves Stening (Publish Creative) is a screen director and writer, and recently moved into producing children's TV. Dinner Detectives are his first children's books. Illustrator, Nigel Buchanan is internationally renowned. His work appears in The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, Fortune 500, The New York Times, Der Spiegel, TIME magazine, Variety and The Hollywood Reporter. Both their children attended Bourke Street Public School in Surry Hills, Sydney, where they met and their collaboration began.

Torrey Maldonado (Penguin Young Readers) is the author of many award-winning, popular middle grade novels, including Hands, What Lane?, and Tight. Just Right is his picture book debut. He is a teacher in Brooklyn, New York, where he was born and raised. His books reflect his students’ and his experiences.

Raymond M. Patterson Jr. (Little Life Skills) is a rising voice in children’s and middle-grade literature whose work celebrates self-discovery, empowerment, and cultural pride. Whether writing fiction or nonfiction, Patterson draws from real-life experiences to create stories that uplift and encourage readers—particularly boys of color—to see themselves as heroes of their own narratives.