Soulful Struttin'

Julia Pierre Hammond can't remember a time when she wasn't writing. She loves to write stories that include her Black and Brazilian heritage and to create books where children feel worthy and seen. Before becoming a full-time children's book writer, she danced ballet through college and taught grades 3–12. Julia lives in Phoenix, Arizona, with her husband, two kids, and dog.

Ana Latese, an African American illustrator, has a passion for producing beautiful imagery inspired by vibrant colors, magical elements, and joy. She enjoys using different lighting situations to help enhance her storytelling and give a warm feeling to her illustrations. Ana has worked with clients such as the Washington Post, Penguin Random House, Hulu, and Scholastic. When she's not illustrating, she loves to play video games, drink a nice cup of tea at a cafe, or binge watch Criminal Minds. As a black artist, most of the pieces that she draws is her attempt to promote a world where black and brown children are seen, heard, valued, and validated. Quoted from one of her favorite artists, Faith Ringgold, "You can't sit around and wait for somebody to say who you are. You need to write it and paint it and do it."