Willows Community School to Offer ‘Diversity in Children’s Literature’ with Authors & Experts

How can we help children be more aware and inclusive in our continually expanding world of cultures, choices, lifestyles, LBGTQ rights, and physical and learning differences? The Willows Community School assembles three prominent children’s authors to discuss this issue and more at the Diversity in Children’s Literature Author Panel on Thursday, November 5th from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at The Willows Community School, 8509 Higuera Street, Culver City, 90232. Books will be sold at the event and followed by a book signing. This event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required.
The panel will feature Brandy Colbert, (pictured right,) award-winning young adult fiction author of “Pointe” (www.brandycolbert.com); Michelle Gagnon, international award-winning author of “Don’t Turn Around” (www.michellegagnon.com); and Nicola Yoon, (pictured below) the New York Times Bestselling author of “Everything, Everything,” (www.nicolayoon.com). Brandy Colbert and Nicola Yoon are both members of We Need Diverse Books (weneeddiversebooks.org) and are working to promote changes in children’s literature publishing to produce and promote literature that reflects and honors the lives of all young people.
“Diversity in children’s literature is essential in our global society,” says Willows Director of Library Services Cathy Leverkus. “We live in an era when everyone should be able to embrace who they are without threat or fear. This panel is a way to promote compassion, kindness and understanding for others through books and so enrich the lives of our children.”