Honoring Jane Yolen

Jane Yolen, author of over 450 children’s books and beloved founding member of SCBWI, passed away last week at the age of 87. Although her loss is immeasurable, we want to take this opportunity to celebrate her beautiful life with you.

Way back in 1972, Jane was the second person to join SCBWI. In the ensuing years, she gave brilliant guidance and inspiration to help us form the community we have built over the last five decades. She was our first regional advisor, held the first ever regional conference, taught beginning and master classes alike at conferences all over the country, and served on our Advisory Council until just a few years ago. Her voice, her values, her love of children’s literature and the people who create it, are deeply embedded in everything we do.

Several years ago, when we created the SCBWI Impact and Legacy Fund, part of our mission was to preserve the legacy of the great children’s book creators of our era. There was no question who the first subject should be. Jane Yolen. In tribute to her, we are sending this video to you. It is an in-depth interview with Jane, conducted by her daughter, author Heidi E. Y. Stemple, and it contains wisdom for the ages. In it, you’ll hear Jane’s eloquent views on creating the picture book, the story of her legendary work ethic, and even be treated to a magical reading of her classic Caldecott-winning book, Owl Moon. You’ll see her eyes shine with the love of her work, and you’ll catch the inspiration for your own.

 Not only was Jane a lifelong friend to me, she was a lifelong friend to all of us involved in the creation of children’s literature. We provide this video for you in the hope that the memory of Jane’s life’s work will guide you as you undertake your creative journey. She’d like that. 

My best to you,

Lin Oliver

SCBWI Co-Founder

Photo: The Boston Globe