Author & Editor Interview: Author Debbie Zapata & Editor Kristine Enderle on Addressing Tough Topics in Picture Books

By Gayleen Rabakukk

Today we welcome author Debbie Zapata and her editor, Kristine Enderle of Magination Press to discuss writing about tough topics, bilingual books, and Debbie’s latest book, Abuela’s Letter, illustrated by Alejandra Ruiz (Magination Press, October 2024).

Debbie Zapata, author and Licensed Clinical Social Worker

When considering picture book topics,

Continue Reading Author & Editor Interview: Author Debbie Zapata & Editor Kristine Enderle on Addressing Tough Topics in Picture Books »

Native Voices & Visions: Sherri Maret & Merisha Sequoia Clark on The Cloud Artist

By Traci Sorell

Today I’m excited to feature an inspiring Choctaw duo–author Sherri Maret and illustrator Merisha Sequoia Clark–who crafted The Cloud Artist, a bilingual Choctaw-English fiction picture book (RoadRunner Press, 2017).

The story centers on a young Choctaw girl who creates art using clouds, and it has been well received since publication.

Continue Reading Native Voices & Visions: Sherri Maret & Merisha Sequoia Clark on The Cloud Artist »

Author-Illustrator Interview: Carolyn Dee Flores on Inspiration, Translation & Dedication

By Gayleen Rabakukk

Carolyn Dee Flores is the author-illustrator of nearly a dozen books. Her latest, The Amazing Watercolor Fish (Arte Publico, 2018), has the unique distinction of rhyming in both Spanish and English. I’m very excited to share Carolyn’s insights with Cynsations readers!

What was your initial inspiration for writing The Amazing Watercolor Fish?

Continue Reading Author-Illustrator Interview: Carolyn Dee Flores on Inspiration, Translation & Dedication »