The Books are Not Enough

I've been thinking a lot about activism lately, and I'm starting to believe that small activism, at a local level, might be the key to a brighter future. So, I've organized an event at my local library-- a presentation about diversity in children's books: why it's important and how we can use them.

If you live in Western MA, please spread the word, tell your kids' teachers & librarians and come! Honestly, I'm a little scared people won't show up--even though I do many, many presentations, I usually don't organize these things, so I'm wearing a slightly different hat here! But I do know that when these events are poorly attended, it sends a message that it doesn't matter. Please help me show that these things matter.

The Books are Not Enough:
Windows, Mirrors and the Bookshelves of Our Community

Forbes Library (upstairs in the Coolidge Museum)
Wednesday, November 1st at 6pm
20 West St, Northampton MA

When we talk about diversity in books, we often talk about "windows and mirrors." But what does that mean? Why is it important? And, if we can agree that diversity in children’s books is important, can we do more than pay it lip service? How can we use these books to help create a more accepting and welcoming community?

In this extended presentation of her popular TEDx talk, Newbery Honor author Grace Lin shares childhood anecdotes, personal publishing experiences and strategies to support diversity through children’s books. 

Librarians, Teachers and Parents welcome!

Want to help spread the word? Downloadable flyer here: http://www.gracelin.com/media/press/nov2017_flyer.pdf

my humble opinion on PBS

Yes, that was me...

Did you miss seeing me on PBS last month? I was on the PB NewsHour, sharing my humble opinion about potentially racist classic children's books. I actually didn't think my position was that controversial but after it aired I received a lot of...well, let's just say it was a lot more controversial than I thought. You can make your own opinion after watching:

However, even with the unpleasant feedback, I do stand by my position. Whether you agree or disagree with my "Little House" example (yes, Ma was scared of Indians because she was a settler--but her hatred of them was portrayed as far stronger than that of Pa's or Laura's who were also settlers, so I--as an 8 year old girl-- took that to be racism), I hope that my real message of simply talking to your kids about the books they are reading can be one we don't have to disagree on.