In this conversation, Selene Castrovilla and E.B. Lewis discuss their collaborative book 'Seeking Freedom,' which explores the untold story of Fortress Monroe and the ending of slavery in America. They delve into the emotional and artistic processes behind creating children's literature that honors unsung heroes and challenges historical narratives. The discussion emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, cultural understanding, and the role of books in empowering children and shaping their perspectives on history and humanity. In this conversation, E. B. Lewis and Selene Castrovilla explore the profound role of artists in society, emphasizing their ability to document and share experiences that provoke thought and inspire change. They discuss the importance of awakening through literature, the influence of teachers on students, and the necessity of critical thinking in education. The dialogue also touches on the significance of truth, empathy, and understanding historical contexts, highlighting how these elements shape our perception of humanity and the world around us. Ultimately, they advocate for embracing mistakes as learning opportunities and recognizing the interconnectedness of all experiences in the journey of life.
Takeaways
E.B. Lewis emphasizes the need for emotional connection in storytelling.
The importance of honoring unsung heroes in history is highlighted.
Critical thinking is essential in education to challenge historical narratives.
Books can empower children and provide them with knowledge.
Art and literature can serve as tools for social change.
The conversation stresses the significance of cultural understanding and respect.
Children should be exposed to diverse stories to foster empathy.
The role of authors and illustrators is to bring important stories to light.
Access to literature is crucial for children's development.
The best gift a parent can give a child is the ability to think independently. Artists document and share experiences that provoke thought.
The legacy of artists is to leave something behind for others.
Literature serves as a tool for awakening and understanding.
Teachers have a profound impact on students' lives.
Embracing mistakes is essential for growth and learning.
Truth is a powerful tool in education and society.
Understanding history requires critical thinking and context.
Empathy is crucial in art and human connection.
Conflict is necessary for growth and understanding.
We are all part of a larger timeline of humanity.
Today I go solo, discussing the two selfless men in my nonfiction history picture book Revolutionary Friends: General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette. What can we learn about humanity and ourselves from these men without whom America wouldn't exist? How can we use history to effectively shape our youngest citizens to be empathetic and helps others?
We're celebrating President's Day with a look at two unexpected looks at George Washington in nonfiction picture books:
The Painter and the President: Gilbert Stuart's Brush with George Washington by Sarah Albee
and
George Washington's Spectacular Spectacles: The Glasses That Saved America by Selene Castrovilla.
In this lively and inspiring episode, Selene chats with her guest, the awesome Sarah Albee, about:
how and why she wrote her book
the brilliant illustrations by Stacy Innerst
how art and words merge together
the thrill of of the writing chase
the research process and the importance of consulting experts
and more!
The two authors exchange thoughts on each others' books and why fresh, human takes on Americans like George Washington are so necessary for young readers to embrace American history and connect with it.
They also reflect on important people in history that most of us may not fully recognize, like Gilbert Stuart. We see his portrait of George Washington on our dollars--it's time to remember the artist who created that iconic image.
#georgewashington
#presidentsday
#kidlit
In this episode of A Heartful of History, host Selene Castrovilla sits down with author Gary Golio and visual storyteller E.B. Lewis to discuss their collaborative work on "The Soldier's Friend: Walt Whitman's Extraordinary Service in the American Civil War".
The conversation delves into the themes of compassion, the emotional impact of storytelling, and the importance of art in conveying humanity. They reflect on their personal experiences, the significance of their artistic partnership, and the profound influence of words on children. In this engaging conversation, E.B., Gary and Selene discuss the profound themes of art, creativity, and collaboration. They explore the essence of humanity in art, the unique dynamics of picture book publishing, and the importance of research and authenticity in storytelling. The dialogue emphasizes the role of fear in the creative process, the value of mistakes, and the necessity of open-mindedness in both art and life. The speakers share personal anecdotes and insights, highlighting the transformative power of literature and the continuous journey of growth as artists.
E.B.'s stunning art in "Everywhere Beauty Is Harlem:
the Vision of Photographer Roy Decarava", another collaboration with Gary, has earned that book a 2025 Coretta Scott King Honor!
Takeaways
The collaboration between Gary Golio and E.B. Lewis is rooted in friendship and shared passion for storytelling.
Walt Whitman's role as 'The Soldier's Friend' highlights the importance of compassion during the Civil War.
Art can serve as a powerful medium to convey deep emotions and human connections.
The emotional impact of storytelling is crucial in children's literature.
E.B. Lewis emphasizes the importance of visual storytelling in his illustrations.
The process of creating a book involves deep conversations and mutual understanding between the author and illustrator.
Words have the power to uplift or discourage children, making it essential to choose them wisely.
The legacy of artists is to leave behind something meaningful for future generations.
Personal experiences shape the way artists connect with their subjects and audiences.
The importance of empathy in storytelling resonates with both creators and readers. Art is about love and care.
The essence of humanity is captured in art.
Collaboration is key in the creative process.
Research and authenticity enhance storytelling.
Fear can be a powerful motivator in creativity.
Mistakes are essential for growth and learning.
Open-mindedness enriches artistic experiences.
Each story demands a unique voice.
Art evolves through challenges and experiences.
Literature has a profound impact on humanity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Work
06:36 The Story Behind 'The Soldier's Friend'
14:09 Walt Whitman's Impact and Humanity
22:58 The Artistic Process and Emotional Connection
29:06 The Art of Storytelling Through Imagery
30:07 Finding Models and Inspiration
31:04 The Journey of Creating Characters
36:35 The Impact of Encouragement on Children
37:33 The Power of Simplicity in Storytelling
39:21 Emotional Depth in Artistic Expression
43:59 Collaboration in the Creative Process
51:26 The Importance of Authenticity in Art
54:29 The Intersection of Art and Humanity
55:25 The Creative Process: Time and Collaboration
58:13 Artistic Evolution and Individual Voice
01:01:53 The Role of Fear in Creativity
01:05:34 Embracing Mistakes and Growth
01:09:30 The Importance of Open-Mindedness in Art
01:13:17 Books as Journeys: Connecting with Readers
Selene chats with author and journalist Lindsay H. Metcalfe about her inspiration, writing process and path to publication for two of her books:
Farmers Unite!
In the late 1970s, grain prices had tanked, farm auction notices filled newspapers, and people had forgotten that food didn’t grow in grocery stores. So, on February 5, 1979, thousands of tractors from all parts of the US flooded Washington, DC, in protest.
Tomatoes on Trial
A nonfiction picture book about the 1893 Supreme Court case that established once and for all whether a tomato is a fruit or a vegetable.
#kidlit #historyforkids #americanhistory
Selene Castrovilla discusses writing and life with author Vivian Kirkfield, whose latest book is One Girl's Voice: How Lucy Stone Helped Change the Law of the Land. Vivian shares her journey toward living her writing dream, including how skydiving was involced. She talks inspiration and process, and about how she helps other writers in their journeys.
This conversation is for anyone interested in American history, whether teaching it, writing it or thirsting for more knowledge of it. It's also for anyone creative, or wanting to get creative but not sure where to start.
Vivian's website:
https://viviankirkfield.com/
Learn more about & order One Girl's Voice:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/763621/one-girls-voice-by-vivian-kirkfield-illustrated-by-rebecca-gibbon/
Selene's website:
https://selenecastrovilla.com/
This weekly podcast invites you inside the minds and processes of kidlit history book creators, from idea to publication. Join the conversation each Wednesday! In Episode 4, Selene chats with author Sarah Aronson, whose latest book is Abzuglutely!: Battling, Bellowing Bella Abzug Illustrated by Andrea D’Aquino Sarah shares how, at age 11, she discovered Bella Abzug and her life was transformed. She talks about why young readers need to know about Bella, what Bella's legacy in America is, and how she set about writing this impportant book. About Abzuglutely!: “As long as people are reading this book, Bella will be with us still.” —Gloria Steinem Meet unique and outspoken Bella Abzug, the iconic Jewish politician and activist who fought for justice and women’s rights, in this compelling picture book biography. Battling Bella Abzug was born bellowing! From her childhood in the Bronx to her years as a lawyer, activist, wife, mother, and congresswoman, Bella battled for justice and fairness for everyone. Inspired by her Jewish upbringing and wholehearted belief in tikkun olam—repairing the world—she spoke her truth everywhere she went. Even when it wasn’t appreciated. Bella just kept on battling! Sarah Aronson and Andrea D’Aquino spotlight this trailblazer who helped kickstart the modern women’s movement—with humor and passion—always in one of her trademark wide-brimmed hats. An unstoppable and unforgettable leader who showed the world a vision for the future—that a woman’s place was in the house—the House of Representatives! Abzuglutely! #americanhistory #historypodcast #historyforkids
This weekly podcast invites you inside the minds and processes of kidlit history book creators, from idea to publication. Join the conversation each Wednesday! This week, host Selene Castrovilla chats with author Beth Anderson about her book "Thomas Jefferson's Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose," a picture book about Thomas Jefferson's use of scientific methods to challenge faulty information and bias. The book tells the story of how Jefferson used scientific inquiry to prove that the new United States was just as good as the Old World. Jefferson was a science enthusiast who loved to measure the natural world, but he was furious when French scientist Count Georges-Louis Leclerc de Buffon published an encyclopedia that claimed America was inferior to Europe. Jefferson knew Buffon had never been to America, and he used scientific methods to gather evidence to prove Buffon wrong. #thomasjefferson #historyforchildren #podcast
In episode two, Selene chats with the awesome illustrator Jenn Harney about her process illustrating nonfiction as opposed to fiction, working within historical constraints, and how unnerving it was to draw George Washington--a man everyone sees every day.
Things hit a technical snag when Jenn's video somehow did not appear in the finished product. Still, thankfully, her audio was crystal clear because, wow, this conversation between the author and illustrator of a book is intense, informative and entertaining!
#georgewashington #historyforkids #historypodcast
Our inaugural episode! Carolyn Yoder discusses her 20-year journey heading Calkins Creek Books, her American History imprint with Astra Books For Young Readers.
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