This month authors had presidential run-ins; a drag queen author tours the country; and a debut release is celebrated online.
A Presidential Surprise
Eric Rosswood, co-author of the picture book Strong (Little, Brown) written with Rob Kearney and illustrated by Nidhi Chanani, had an unexpected presidential encounter. On May 9, while Rosswood was signing copies at his local indie, the Village Bookstore in Pleasantville, N.Y., former president Bill Clinton dropped by and called Rosswood’s work “inspiring,” saying that stories like Strong could “change the world.” Inspired by Rob Kearney’s real-life journey to becoming the first openly gay strongman, the picture follows young Rob’s path to accepting his differences as he pursues his dream of becoming a champion.
A Queen’s Entrance
On May 14, Skylight Books in Los Angeles welcomed drag queen Lil Miss Hot Mess for her book tour celebrating the release of If You’re a Drag Queen and You Know It (Running Press). The event included a reading and a conversation about LGBTQ representation. With illustrations by Olga De Dios Ruiz, the picture book contains comedic calls to action for children embracing their boldest selves and celebrating their unique qualities.
A Gem of a Release
Debut author Jenna Yoon celebrated the release of her middle grade fantasy Lia Park and the Missing Jewel (Aladdin) with a virtual event on May 4. Hosted by her local indie bookstore, BookPeople in Austin, Tex., Yoon (r.) appeared in conversation with fellow middle grade author Adrianna Cuevas (l.).
