In this interactive presentation, students learn that the best stories come from the treasure they hold inside. Kelly shares how every-day moments, enduring memories and history inspire her award-winning books for kids. Then, she takes students on a tour of her writing process from story idea to publication. She gives them a peek at drafts, early art from illustrators and offers tips on making their stories shine. The session includes readings and Q&A.

Artist Background

Kelly Starling Lyons is a founding member of The Brown Bookshelf, a teaching artist, and an award-winning author of more than 30 books for young readers. Her mission is to center Black heroes, celebrate family, friendship, & heritage, and show all kids the stories they hold inside. Among her acclaimed picture books are Caldecott Honor winner Going Down Home with Daddy, Christopher Award winner Tiara’s Hat Parade, and Bank Street Best Books selections Sing a Song: How Lift Every Voice & Sing Inspired Generations and My Hands Tell a Story. Kelly is also the author of three popular series for young people—chapter books starring her characters Jada Jones and Miles Lewis, and the Ty’s Travels easy readers which won a Geisel Honor for Zip, Zoom. Her nonfiction titles include two books in Chelsea Clinton’s She Persisted series, chapter books on Dr. Dorothy I. Height and Mrs. Coretta Scott King. Kelly was named to Good Morning America’s 2021 list, Who’s Making Black History. She regularly presents to schools, libraries, festivals, and conferences around the country.

Learn more at www.kellystarlinglyons.com.

Search Criteria

• Program Type: Performance
• Discipline: Literary, Multi-Disciplinary
• Grade Level: Elementary
• Cultural Context: African-American
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County