In this conversation, authors Malcolm Newsome and Clothilde Ewing discuss their visions and aspirations for children’s literature. In particular, ways they have and will continue to both write and advocate for stories that feature BIPOC characters in settings and narratives that move beyond purely historical and overtly “cultural” experiences.
Malcolm Newsome is the author of Dear Star Baby, Sydney’s Big Speech, and several forthcoming titles. Clothilde Ewing is the author of Stella Keeps the Sun Up, Stella and the Mystery of the Missing Tooth, and the forthcoming Stella and Roger Can’t Wait to Grow Up.
Clothilde and Malcolm will sign books in the Children’s Library immediately following storytime.
FULL SCHEDULE
About the writers:
CLOTHILDE EWING is the author of Stella Keeps the Sun Up (Simon & Schuster BFYR, 2022), Stella and the Mystery of the Missing Tooth (Simon & Schuster BFYR, 2023), and the forthcoming Stella and Roger Can’t Wait to Grow Up (Simon & Schuster BFYR, 2024).
MALCOLM NEWSOME is a traditionally published children’s book author and cyber security expert from the Chicago area. He is a married father of five who has a deep passion for telling stories of hope and possibilities. When he’s not writing or spending time with family, you’ll probably find him either reading, spending time outside in his mini-orchard, or being a lumberjack. His first children’s picture book, Dear Star Baby, released in April 2023. His second picture book, Sydney’s Big Speech, released with HarperCollins in February 2024. He also has several forthcoming titles with HarperCollins and Holt:Macmillan.
Books by these writers:
VIEW FESTIVAL READING LIST

Stella and the Mystery of the Missing Tooth by Clothilde Ewing, illustrated by Lynn Gaines
In this effervescent companion to the picture book Stella Keeps the Sun Up, Stella goes on the hunt to figure out who’s behind her friend’s missing tooth.

Sydney’s Big Speech by Malcolm Newsome, art by Jade Orlando
A perfect picture book about perseverance, overcoming challenges, and working hard to achieve your goals!