Frequently Asked Questions
Who are we?
KidLit in Color is a group of traditionally published BIPOC creatives. We nurture one another, amplify diverse voices, and advocate for equitable representation in the industry.
Our titles includes picture books and middle grade literature.
How did the group begin?
KidLit in Color was started in December 2019 by Aya Khalil and Kirstie Myvett who wanted to create a group for BIPOC creatives that would afford us a safe space as we navigate the publishing world. Aya and Kirstie were joined by other founding members, including Valerie Bolling, and Tameka Fryer Brown. Lisa Stringfellow soon joined the group as the first middle-grade author. In summer 2020, our name changed from 2020 Diverse Debuts to KidLit in Color.
Current members also include Tonya Abari, Alliah L. Agostini, Gabriele Davis, Dr. Rashmi Bismark, Susan Muaddi Darraj, Tina Athaide, Natasha Khan Kazi, Kavita Ramchandran, Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, and Kaitlyn Wells.
What do we do?
KidLit in Color members actively promote and amplify each other's work, as well as the work of other BIPOC authors, through social media and blogging. We are an affinity group that curates a safe space to discuss the challenges of being BIPOC in children's publishing. Members meet virtually every other month to uplift one another, bond, and discuss plans for promoting each other’s books. Some members actively advocate for more equitable practices in the publishing industry through writing and participating in panels.
How can I apply for membership?
Membership is open to traditionally published BIPOC creatives working in picture books or middle grade. Your publisher must be PAL listed by SCBWI to be considered. Please check the current list here.
KidLit in Color membership is currently CLOSED.
Is KidLit in Color available for panels, school visits (virtual or in person) and conferences?
We are committed to supporting schools, libraries, and bookstores. We have served on a range of panels on topics from writing craft to social justice in children’s literature. We are open to collaborating with organizations whose values align with our mission of equitable representation.
Please feel free to contact the author(s) with whom you are interested in scheduling a visit for more information.
How can I be featured on your blog?
If you are a traditionally published BIPOC author or illustrator with a debut picture book or middle grade novel, contact us to be featured on the blog. We feature BIPOC author guest posts, blog tours, and cover reveals.
KidLit in Color is a group of traditionally published BIPOC creatives. We nurture one another, amplify diverse voices, and advocate for equitable representation in the industry.
Our titles includes picture books and middle grade literature.
How did the group begin?
KidLit in Color was started in December 2019 by Aya Khalil and Kirstie Myvett who wanted to create a group for BIPOC creatives that would afford us a safe space as we navigate the publishing world. Aya and Kirstie were joined by other founding members, including Valerie Bolling, and Tameka Fryer Brown. Lisa Stringfellow soon joined the group as the first middle-grade author. In summer 2020, our name changed from 2020 Diverse Debuts to KidLit in Color.
Current members also include Tonya Abari, Alliah L. Agostini, Gabriele Davis, Dr. Rashmi Bismark, Susan Muaddi Darraj, Tina Athaide, Natasha Khan Kazi, Kavita Ramchandran, Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, and Kaitlyn Wells.
What do we do?
KidLit in Color members actively promote and amplify each other's work, as well as the work of other BIPOC authors, through social media and blogging. We are an affinity group that curates a safe space to discuss the challenges of being BIPOC in children's publishing. Members meet virtually every other month to uplift one another, bond, and discuss plans for promoting each other’s books. Some members actively advocate for more equitable practices in the publishing industry through writing and participating in panels.
How can I apply for membership?
Membership is open to traditionally published BIPOC creatives working in picture books or middle grade. Your publisher must be PAL listed by SCBWI to be considered. Please check the current list here.
KidLit in Color membership is currently CLOSED.
Is KidLit in Color available for panels, school visits (virtual or in person) and conferences?
We are committed to supporting schools, libraries, and bookstores. We have served on a range of panels on topics from writing craft to social justice in children’s literature. We are open to collaborating with organizations whose values align with our mission of equitable representation.
Please feel free to contact the author(s) with whom you are interested in scheduling a visit for more information.
How can I be featured on your blog?
If you are a traditionally published BIPOC author or illustrator with a debut picture book or middle grade novel, contact us to be featured on the blog. We feature BIPOC author guest posts, blog tours, and cover reveals.
