Saturday, August 20, 2022
Writing, illustrating, and publishing a book for children is filled with obstacles and hurdles that are unique to being an author for a younger audience. Our panel of children’s book authors will present books for primary students (grades K-3), elementary students (grades 3-5), and middle school students (grades 5-8). Each panelist will share their own journey, creative process, and advice to those wanting to pursue writing children’s books.
10:00am
Andrea Cassell
The Kibby Series (elementary)
Andrea Cassel is a three-time recipient of the Mom’s Choice- Gold Award as well as the prestigious 2021 Pinnacle Book Achievement Award. Her three delightful books, Kibby the Space Dog, Kibby Gets a Little Sister, and Kibby and Olive Move to Georgia, teach life lessons as seen through the eyes of her dog Kibby.
11:00am
Dr. Surishtha Sehgal
It’s Diwali and A Bucket of Blessings (primary / elementary)
Dr. Surishtha Sehgal was a university professor for many years and now enjoys reading to children during story time. She is the founder of a nonprofit organization that promotes social responsibility among students, and she serves on the boards of two universities and a national arts center. She lives in Atlanta.
1:00pm
JoAnn Dotson
Spider In My Shoe, What Do You Do? (primary)
JoAnn Dotson is a retired educator with 32 years of service. She is a native of Sandersville Ga. She is married to Benjamin Dotson. She attended Morris Brown College with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. She received her Master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy State University. She also took Doctoral classes at North Central University. During her teaching career she was Teacher of the Year, 13 WMAZ News My Teacher is Tops Award, and Washington County Chamber of Commerce Spotlight Teacher of the Year Award. She enjoys reading, poetry, painting and the love of chocolate candy and desserts of all forms.
2:00pm
Andy Runton
