Valerie Bolling is an award-winning author/educator who is passionate about creating stories in which all children can see themselves and feel seen and heard, valued and validated. She is the author of eight picture books, including SCBWI Crystal Kite Award winner, LET’S DANCE!; Kirkus Prize Finalist, TOGETHER WE SWIM; Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection, I SEE COLOR; and Notable Social Studies Trade Book, A FLEA FOR JUSTICE. She’s also written a Scholastic Acorn early reader series, RAINBOW DAYS and books for teachers, GOAL SETTING IN THE WRITING CLASSROOM: BUILDING STUDENT AGENCY, INDEPENDENCE, AND SUCCESS and WRITING POETRY MONTH BY MONTH: INSPIRING THE POET IN ALL STUDENTS. A graduate of Tufts University and Teachers College, Columbia University, Valerie was an educator for 30 years and currently teaches picture book classes (independently and for the Highlights Foundation and Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance) and presents at conferences. She enjoys teaching both students and adults and inspiring them to write their own stories. An eternal list-maker, professional walker, and guacamole connoisseur, Valerie lives in lives in Connecticut with her husband where they enjoy traveling, hiking, reading, going to the theater, and dancing. linktr.ee/ValerieBolling
The March for Hope
In this uplifting picture book, a young Black girl’s identities converge at the Women’s March, helping her find power in her voice and her community. Overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the protest, Hope is unsure of how she fits into this movement and how she can make her voice heard―after all, she didn’t seem to have any power when her teacher discriminated against her in class. But when she and Mama join a group of Black women protesters, Hope sees herself in them and discovers that one voice, no matter how small, can make powerful change. With propulsive writing and vibrant, accessible artwork, The March for Hope is an electrifying call to action and a heartfelt reminder of our own inherent strength.