Interview with author-illustrator Stacey Byer

We are thrilled to interview super talented author- illustrator Stacey Byer today! Read the interview with her about her upcoming picture book Will and Krill, releasing June 10, 2025:

KLiC: What was your inspiration for Will and Krill?

Stacey Byer: Will and Krill is a love letter to my older sibling and our childhood. I wanted to tell a story that celebrated our different personalities, sisterhood and friendship. She was the quiet kid, and I was the loud one, and in spite of our differences, we’re best friends. When we were little, I saw how quiet, introverted kids would sometimes be left out or overlooked. As an adult, I also saw this pattern when I worked at a daycare. It was important for me to write a story that highlighted that everyone has a voice, no matter how quiet.


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KLiC: What are your favorite illustrations in the book?

SB: There are two pivotal scenes of Will going off into the deep blue ocean in search of a friend and another where she gets lost. These moments not only represent the trepidation that kids (and even
adults) can feel but I hope also let readers know that we all have the ability to
overcome obstacles. I want kids to feel proud of those moments, when something feels too big but you try anyway.

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KLiC: What’s the one thing you want children to take away from your book?

SB: That it’s completely okay to just be YOU. Who we are, our personalities - they make us
special and unique. It’s a beautiful and brave thing to just be yourself, and your voice
matters no matter how small. Always remember powerful things can also come in
small packages!

KLiC: Is there anything you want readers to know about you or your book(s)?
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SB: Did you know that some whale species like the sperm and humpback are born in the
Caribbean? This was also one of the inspirations for my book! There are even whale
sanctuaries to protect whales in some of the islands. That’s why I set my whale
community in the Caribbean sea because they’re Caribbean citizens like me!



Follow Stacey here: 

https://www.instagram.com/stacebyer/

https://bsky.app/profile/staceybyer.bsky.social

https://www.facebook.com/StaceyByerArt


About Stacey: 
Born in the Caribbean, Stacey graduated with a degree in Illustration from Ringling College of Art and Design.  She then returned to her island and used her art skills to promote art education in schools, and worked with different organisations such as Room to Read and Harper Collins UK. She has illustrated many educational materials that have become a permanent part of the local schools’ curriculum.

Stacey also serves on the Grenada Community Library board where she advocates for the value of literacy and encourages a love for reading.
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She spends most evenings in her veranda dreaming up new ways to create materials that encourage diversity and inclusion.

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