Discover Great Books For Kids

Adam Gidwitz was a teacher for eight years. Now, he writes full time, which means he writes a couple of hours a day, and lies on his couch staring at the ceiling the rest of the time. He is the bestselling author of A TALE DARK AND GRIMM, IN A GLASS GRIMMLY, and THE GRIMM CONCLUSION, as well as THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK: SO YOU WANT TO BE A JEDI?, Newbery Honored novel, THE INQUISITOR’S TALE, and brand new series, THE UNICORN RESCUE SOCIETY. He is also the creator of the podcast, GRIMM, GRIMMER, GRIMMEST—available on Apple Podcasts!

When I was a child, I re-envisioned neighborhood games like wire ball, traveled to space in my under-the-desk rocket, built snow castles for faraway kingdoms, and climbed trees taller than the sun (even after falling into a trash can). I also liked putting on shows in our living room and attempting gymnastic tricks–key word: attempting.

Now, I embrace that sense of wonder and create stories to empower children, teens, and families. I love all-things-Philadelphia, all forms of music, and all people who believe in kindness. My Quiet Ship is my debut picture book. You can likely find me reading it while savoring dark chocolate, attempting gymnastic tricks, or cuddling with my two daughters, hubby, and our dogs.

Maria Tina Beddia was born and raised on the green grasses of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She received her BFA in Printmaking from the California College of Arts and Crafts in 2007.

Currently based in Philadelphia, Maria spends her days at her studio designing, illustrating, and teaching hand lettering at the University of the Arts. Her dogs Bruce and Willie like to watch her create and find any crumbs she drops under her desk.

Her personal illustration style is young, playful, and colorful which lends itself to the child’s imaginative spirit. She has always been inspired by Dr. Seuss.

Charles Santoso (Chao) loves drawing little things in his little journal and dreaming about funny, wondrous stories. He gathers inspiration from his childhood memories and curiosities he discovers in his everyday travels.

He has illustrated several picture books, including The Snurtch and I don’t Like Koala—both written by Sean Ferrell, Ida, Always—written by Caron Levis, which was mentioned in the New York Times as “an example of children’s books at their best,” Peanut Butter & Brains—written by Joe McGee, and Penguin & Tiny Shrimp Don’t Do Bedtime—written by Cate Berry. Also a New York Times bestseller Wishtree by Katherine Applegate and A Boy Called Bat by Elana K Arnold.