What is your earliest reading memory? 

I remember that someone gave me the book “Pat the Bunny.” It was a board book with various things you can play with and touch. Yes, the bunny was fluffy and you could pet it. I loved that book.

What was one of your favorite childhood books? 

I also loved Where the "Wild Things Are" and "Goodnight Moon." I have fond memories of reading "Goodnight Moon" to my little brother on a regular basis. I think that was his favorite book.

Do you have any advice for young readers? 

I would suggest that young readers read often with friends and family. And share your favorite books with each other.  I am always looking for suggestions for the next book I want to read. 

Tell us about what  you are currently reading! 

I recently finished "The Candy House," by Jennifer Egan. I was looking for something else to read this Winter Break. A friend of mine recommended "Where the Crawdads Sing," so I just picked it up from the library. I am looking forward to diving in! 

What is your earliest reading memory? 

I remember reading Little Golden Books under my dads desk. I would bundle up with a blanket and a flash light and look through my whole collection. I loved making up stories based off of the illustrations! 

What was one of your favorite childhood books?

That’s so hard to choose! I have so many favorites from different parts of my childhood. My first grade class took a trip to the library and the librarian read "Corduroy." I remember being entranced by it. Seeing a girl with brown skin was so special, Corduroy’s nighttime adventure, and his realization of wanting a home and friend carved out a special place in my heart. I still tear up every time I read it to my class! 

Do you have any advice for young readers? 

Read what you love! Whether it’s  chapter books, picture books, comics, your friends stories, read things that bring you joy! I love reading, but sometimes it’s hard for me. When I hit reading slumps, I reread favorites and it brings me comfort. 

Tell us about what  you are currently reading! 

I’m currently reading “Other Terrors: An Inclusive Anthology,” which is a book full of horror stories that turns the idea of “other” on it’s head. It’s very interesting and a little spooky! 

What is your earliest reading memory? 

My earliest reading memory is listening to bedtime stories. I loved the comforting repetition of "Goodnight Moon." 

What was one of your favorite childhood books? 

When I started going to school, The Kissing Hand helped me feel strong away from my grown-ups! The first chapter book I loved was "Because of Winn Dixie." 

Do you have any advice for young readers? 

Read what you like! If you find an author you like, read more from them. When you find a series you like, read all of it. If you like to read graphic novels, read more graphic novels. Reading should make you feel good!

Tell us about what you are currently reading! 

I am currently reading "Parable of the Sower," by Octavia E. Butler, a dark story about a young woman trying to find meaning in a post-apocalyptic world harmed by climate change and social inequity. 

What is your earliest reading memory? 

I remember reading the book "The Little Engine that Could." I would sit on the floor and read it over and over. I think that book fell apart!

What was one of your favorite childhood books? 

I loved so many books as a kid—it’s hard to choose! I really liked "Ramona the Pest," and then when I got a little older I loved "A Wrinkle in Time." 

Do you have any advice for young readers? 

I used to reread my favorite books over and over. I got to know them so well and I think that’s a great thing for young readers to do. 

Tell us about what  you are currently reading! 

I’m reading a few books right now, but one I’m enjoying is called "Things to Make and Do in the Fourth Dimension," by Matt Parker.