Based on the research that race, gender, consent, and body positivity should be discussed with toddlers on up, this read-aloud series offers adults the opportunity to begin important conversations with young children in an informed, safe, and supported way. Now available as a hardcover picture book!

About the Author

Jessica Ralliis the Coordinator of Early Literacy Programs at Brooklyn Public Library, where she develops and manages programming for BPL’s award-winning First Five Years initiative. She received her MA in Early Childhood Special Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and previously taught in schools, childcare centers, and museums. She has written about early literacy and library services for young children inSchool Library Journal(where she co-authors the “First Steps” column with Rachel G. Payne) and has presented on play-based learning at the American Library Association Conference, Young Child Expo, and the Bank Street Center for Children’s Literature.
Megan Pamela Ruth Madisonis a lifelong student of radical Black feminism and an early childhood educator. She holds an MS in early childhood education from Dominican University and a BA in studies in religion from the University of Michigan. She is currently pursuing her PhD at Brandeis University’s Heller School for Social Policy. When she’s not working on finishing up her dissertation, she works as a trainer for the Center for Racial Justice in Education, the Human Root, and the New York Early Childhood Professional Development Institute, facilitating workshops for teachers on race, gender, and sexuality.

Isabel Roxasis an author/illustrator, micro-publisher, ceramicist, and avid reader. She was born in Manila, Philippines, and was raised on luscious mangoes, old wives’ tales, and monsoon moons. She now works in the back room of an art gallery in Manhattan where she writes and illustrates stories, designs books, and creates small objects in clay and resin. Her illustrator credits include picture booksHello Universeby Erin Entrada Kelly (2018 Newbery medal winner),Let Me Finish!by Minh L (named an NPR Best Book of 2016), andDay at the Marketby May Tobias-Papa (2010 winner of the Philippine National Book Award).

Isabel is the founder of Little Big Time Press, where she publishes artist books and zines for children. She is also a frequent contributor toBabybugandLadybug Magazine. Her work has been recognized by American Illustration,HOW Magazine,and3×3 Magazine of Contemporary Illustration. Her debut comic book for young readers,The Adventures of Team Pom: SQUID HAPPENS, will publish in June 2021.