Here Wee Read Live: New York Times Bestselling Author Derrick Barnes and Vanessa Brantley-Newton – The Queen of Kindergarten

This episode is a recording from a live author panel event that took place on March 8, 2022.

This was an intimate couch conversation with author-illustrator Vanessa Brantley-Newton and New York Times Bestselling Author Derrick Barnes. Moderated by Charnaie Gordon from Here Wee Read.

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La Noche Before Three Kings Day” is a heartwarming story echoing the spirit of Clement Clarke Moore’s “The Night Before Christmas.”

As Three Kings Day approaches, excitement fills the air. Grownups are busy preparing a feast, while the children are bustling with joy, getting their shoe boxes ready for the anticipated arrival of los Reyes later in the night. The big question lingers: Will the kids manage to stay awake to greet the Kings and wish them a ‘Feliz Día de los Reyes,’ or will they fall asleep and miss the enchantment?

Join a lively, loving family as they share delicious food, play their cherished games, and eagerly await the arrival of the three kings bearing gifts.

Have you read this one yet? 👇🏾#lanochebeforethreekingsday #threekingsday #threekings #threekingsday👑👑👑 #holidaybooksforkids

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Through poetic words, author Janelle Harper shares her admiration for the Bronx’s vibrant streets. She describes her neighborhood as a lively blend of cultures, an epicenter of coolness, and a place bursting with life – her personal sanctuary.

The book is a heartfelt tribute to the everyday sights and sounds of the Bronx – from the corner stores to the buzzing subways and lively playgrounds. It’s a story that honors the community’s influence on popular culture, covering music, art, and dance.

This picture book is more than just words and illustrations; it’s a celebration of the Bronx’s spirit, a testament to the strength and creativity of its people. Illustrator @frankmorrison makes this book come alive with his vibrant and brilliant illustrations.

Add this one to your book wish list. Publishing January 2, 2024 from our friends at @penguinkids @penguinclassroom. #myblocklookslike #janelleharper #frankmorrison #frankmorrisonart #penguinkids #penguinclassroom @bxstoryteller

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Experience the joy of Hanukkah with this unique menorah and storybook combo, perfect for family fun.

If you celebrate Hanukkah, every night, you and your little ones pick a candle-shaped mini book from the set. Inside, you’ll meet a friendly young girl and her family. They’re just like you, getting ready for Hanukkah – decorating, sharing blessings, savoring yummy treats, and playing dreidel.

After reading each mini book, flip the candle over to “light” the candle by placing it back in the menorah. It’s a special way to celebrate each evening of the Festival of Lights. This storybook set is a cozy, memorable way to bond and learn about Hanukkah, perfect for kids aged 4-8 and anyone who’s young at heart.

Have you seen this one yet? #eightnightsoflights @harperkids #festivaloflights #hanukkahbooks #hanukkahbooksforkids #eightnightsofhanukkah

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This story is a real treat for kids who love the wonder of Christmas and, of course, cake!

It’s Christmas Eve and something magical is happening at Lita’s bakery. Esperanza Caramelo, a little spun-sugar ornament meant for the top of the Nochebuena cake, suddenly comes to life. She’s not just any decoration - tonight, she’s dancing and singing, bringing the whole bakery to life with a festive party. But then, oh no! Something goes wrong.

Will they be able to fix the cake before Christmas? Time’s running out, but remember, it’s Nochebuena - when anything can happen. And Esperanza? She’s not about to lose hope.

Recommended for ages 4-8 and up.

#esperanzacaramelothestarofnochebuena #esperanzacaramelo #christmasbookstagram #christmasbooksforkids #christmasbooks @knopfkids @elisachavarri

#childrensbooks #childrensbookstagram #picturebookoftheday #picturebooks #picturebookstagram #readeveryday #readdaily #booksforkids #picturebooksforkids #hereweeread #bookstagram #kidsbookstagram #booksforchildren #readingismagic #readmorebooks #readingisfundamental @kvalenti_author

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Quarto Kids @quartokids sent us this fantastic box filled with 12 days of bookish surprises. There’s something for everyone on my list, plus a few surprises just for me.

For the first 12 days of December, I’ll be unwrapping each gift and sharing curated lists and links in my stories in case you see something you like.

Thanks, @quartokids!

Have you started or finished your holiday shopping yet? 👇🏾#12daysofquarto #12daysofquartobox #12daysofgifting #12daysofgifts #bookishsurprise #12daysofbookstagram

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Comment “SANTA” to receive a direct link to the full list of books straight to your DMs.

The presence of a Black Santa in children’s books is more than just a seasonal touch; it’s a powerful statement of inclusion and representation. For Black children, seeing Santa - a figure synonymous with kindness, generosity, and joy - sharing their skin tone can have a profound impact on their self-esteem and sense of belonging. It’s about seeing themselves reflected in a world of magic and wonder, a reassurance that they too are deserving of the love and joy that Santa embodies. These books are more than just stories; they are mirrors in which children can see their own faces, validating their identity in a world that often overlooks it.

Moreover, having a Black Santa in children’s literature is a step towards broadening perspectives and embracing diversity. It challenges the one-dimensional portrayal often seen in mainstream media and opens up conversations about inclusivity from an early age. For children of all backgrounds, it’s an opportunity to understand and appreciate the richness of different cultures and identities. Such representation in literature, especially during a time as magical as Christmas, sends a message of unity and respect. It’s not just about changing the color of a character; it’s about reshaping narratives to create a more inclusive and empathetic world for our children.

Have you read any of these books yet? 👇🏾#blacksanta #blacksantabooks #santababy #blacksantaclaus #blacksantasmatter #christmasbookstagram #christmasbooksforkids #christmasbooks

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Here Wee Read Live: New York Times Bestselling Author Derrick Barnes and Vanessa Brantley-Newton – The Queen of Kindergarten

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10 Children’s Books Publishing in 2022: JaNay Brown-Wood, PhD

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We Got the Spirit: Up Close and Personal with Frank and Connie Morrison

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More you’ll love

Mango and Marigold Press: Chatting Books and Diversity with CEO Sailja Joshi

10 Children’s Books Publishing in 2022: JaNay Brown-Wood, PhD

Here Wee Read Live: Black Children’s Book Week Author Panel

We Got the Spirit: Up Close and Personal with Frank and Connie Morrison

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