Indiana has proven to be such a rich state for authors who address ethnically diverse characters that I cannot image what I’d find if I looked for authors in Florida, Ohio, Texas or Rhode Island. These authors are among our hometown heroes because they document our local lives. When brought into classrooms and libraries, they… Read More From the Heartland: Kekla Magoon
Some places come into your life, others for a season. These places give us different lessons and memories that often come back to haunt us in one way or another. Will the ghosts of Indiana end up in any of Ashley Hope Perez’s books? Who knows! Perhaps she was too busy during with school work during… Read More From the Heartland: Ashley Hope Perez
Considering authors who write about African American, Latino, Arab or Muslim Americans, Native Americans in my state of Indiana has uncovered a true wealth of authors. It’s a bit funny to see such richness in this state when Indiana in YA is usually seen as the last place on earth. But, to those teens who… Read More From the Heartland: Elsa Marston
My recent interview with Crystal Allen got me wondering who are the Indiana authors who write about teens of color? This is an important question when you consider how many YA books are set in NYC. Teens in Indiana , or any state, benefit from stories set where they live because setting can provide one… Read More From the Heartland: Kevin Waltman
Estela Bernal made her debut as an author this past May with Can You See Me Now? (Pinata/Arte Publico). As you get to know her today and find out a little more about Can You See Me Now? you’ll be impressed but, be even more impressed to know that she’s donating 100% of her proceeds… Read More author interview: Estela Bernal
Cotton Quilts Edi 