Pathways to Publication: SCBWI Kidlit Panel 2026

Susan is a career marketing professional and now children's book author. She has always loved children's books and writing stories about things that matter to her—like figuring out who you are and your purpose in the world or exploring different kinds of families and some of the challenges growing up in them. She was the only girl in a family of very active and loud boys. Most of the time, she felt unsure of how to fit in. It didn't help that she was also tall for her age and very shy! Susan found comfort and a sense of belonging through books and writing. She hopes her books do the same for you! Learn more about Susan at: yodabooks.com

McCall Hoyle is a best-selling and award-winning author and a former teacher and librarian. She visits dozens of schools each year, championing students, reading, and writing, and speaks regularly at conferences such as ALA and NCTE. She has an English degree from Columbia College and a master’s degree in secondary English from Georgia State University. She lives in a cottage in the woods in North Georgia where she reads and writes every day. Learn more about McCall at mcallhoyle.com.

Cathy Ann Johnson is an author-illustrator and artist whose career spans Hallmark Cards, licensing, and children's publishing. She was the first African American woman to work in Hallmark's Center of Excellence as an illustrator and now serves on the CCAD Alumni Advisory Board. A three-time American Illustration honoree, four-time Communication Arts honoree, CCAD Creative Entrepreneur Award recipient, and Scholastic Art & Writing Awards judge, Johnson has illustrated books for Random House, Bloomsbury, and Scholastic, including Lyric's Favorite Season and A Cup of Quiet. She divides her time between Atlanta, Rome, and Sinalunga, Tuscany. Learn more about Cathy Ann at: painted-words.com/portfolio/cathy-ann-johnson/

Michelle S. Kennedy is a children’s author and poet dedicated to creating stories that blend laugh-out-loud humor with heart. Her mission is to help the next generation discover the joy of reading! Her debut picture book, Cellphoneitis, has been praised by parents, teachers, and library media specialists for its relatable and comedic approach to screen-time balance. With real-life experience of raising a son in the digital age, Michelle understands the modern family's struggle to stay connected. Now an empty nester, she draws inspiration from the world around her and the often unexpected "growing pains" of life. Learn more about Michelle at MichelleSKennedy.com.

Angela Pham Krans is the award-winning author of Finding Papa, which received ALA’s Asian/Pacific American Honor Award for Literature. Her other titles include Words Between Us and Another Word For Neighbor (HarperCollins). Angela enjoys writing humorous and heartfelt stories that highlight relationships between family, friends, and community. She hopes her stories broaden knowledge, expand perspectives, and encourage understanding and empathy from readers of all ages. When Angela isn’t writing, she enjoys traveling, trying new recipes, and spending time with family. Angela lives in Atlanta with her husband, Hamilton, and their rambunctious dog, Archer. Learn more about Angela at angelakrans.com.

Negrita Smart is a small-town girl from Alabama, a believer, wife, sister, and teacher at heart. She is the award-winning author of the Grace adventure series, Daniel Chooses to Forgive, and Putting God First: An Inspirational Guide for Teenagers. In recognition of outstanding fiction, Grace and The Golden Rule and Grace Loves Her Neighbor were featured on the Nasdaq and I Love NY! billboards in Times Square, New York. Negrita has appeared in numerous magazines, television programs, and podcasts. She is passionate about sharing life lessons through engaging stories and relatable characters. Learn more about Negrita at negritasmart.com.

Jime (ji-mee) Wimmer brings stories of kindness to life through illustration, writing, and design. Her nostalgic storybooks create heartfelt moments for older generations to share with little ones, sparking adventure and connection through the magic of storytelling. She has been an educator for 19+ years and is currently an assistant professor at Hollins University, where she instructs Children's Book Portfolio Courses in their Children’s Literature and Illustration Graduate program. She is represented by Erzsi Deak at Hen & Ink Literary. Education: Hartford University; BS/Art Education, Keystone College. Learn more about Jime at: prettylines.com