Local Author and Illustrator Panel: The Path to Publication

Gabriella Aldeman is a Panamanian American author and professional translator of children’s books. Gabriella holds degrees from Georgetown University and the College of William and Mary. Her books include Paula’s Patches (Free Spirit, 2023), Squawk of Spanish (Charlesbridge, 2024), and the forthcoming Sometimes A Dream (Versify/HarperCollins, 2027). She lives in Fairfax, Virginia with her husband and two children. Please visit her at www.writebetween.com.

Nadia Fisher is an author-illustrator and illustrator based out of Washington, DC. Her debut picture book, Daddy Dressed Me, written by Michael and Ava Gardner, released in March of 2023, and since then, she has illustrated several picture books, including Little People, BIG DREAMS: Simone Biles, and middle grade book covers. Her debut author-illustrator picture book, At the Cookout, releases in the spring of 2026 via Putnam Young Readers.

Megan Wagner Lloyd is the Eisner-nominated writer of the bestselling and award winning kids’ graphic novels Allergic and Squished, co-created with illustrator Michelle Mee Nutter, and the Super Pancake kids’ graphic novel series, co-created with illustrator Abhi Alwar. Megan is also the author of the children’s novel Haven: A Small Cat’s Big Adventure, the picture book Finding Wild, illustrated by Abigail Halpin, and more. She lives with her family in the Washington DC area.

Leah Moser is a children’s book author living in Northern Virginia. With degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology, Leah has spent years as a classroom teacher. She loves sharing her passion for picture books with her husband, three daughters, dog, and readers of all ages. I Am a Thundercloud is her debut book.