AN E&I Hosted event
About the panelists:
Bryan Patrick Avery is an award-winning poet and author of more than twenty books for children including two chapter book series, MR. GRIZLEY’S CLASS, illustrated by Arief Putra, and MILO GRAY’S IMAGINATION ADVENTURES, illustrated by Sabrina Filieri. He is also the author of the bestselling middle grade collective biography, BLACK MEN IN SCIENCE, illustrated by Nikita Leanne. He is a past recipient of the SCBWI Work in Progress Award for his chapter book mystery THE ROBOT IN THE LIBRARY and was a fellow in the inaugural Amplify Black Stories Cohort. Bryan lives in Northern California with his family."
Charlotte Cheng has written and illustrated a variety of books including Roar-Choo!, Night Market Rescue, BoBo Loves Dumplings, and I Miss You Most. Represented by Red Fox Literary, Charlotte has spoken at a wide variety of events and taught interactive workshops for both children and adults. These events have included the National American Librarian Association Conference, LA Times Book Festival, Bay Area Book Festival, and the Your Author Series of Los Angeles Public Library. With over 20 years of EdTech experience, Charlotte has written and published K-12 curriculum for influential companies including LeapFrog, Disney, and Wonder Workshop.
Crystel Patterson is an award-winning author and proud "boy mom" behind the "Inspired to Be..." book series. Her books amplify positive narratives of Black people, inspiring children with stories inspired by real people and teaching valuable life lessons. Her approach to children's literature is deeply rooted in her role as a mother and her passion for empowering the next generation. Crystel’s work has earned media recognition and literary awards, encouraging children to follow their dreams and make a positive impact.