Origin Stories with JJK

💬 Submit questions: https://StudioJJK.com/podcasts🛒 Support the show: https://StudioJJK.com/shop 📕 Support Grace: https://bookshop.org/lists/grace-linCelebrated, multi-award winning author/illustrator Grace Lin shares her journey from childhood to becoming an icon of children's literature! Grace discusses the impact of her upbringing, the challenges of navigating cultural identity, and the importance of representation in literature. Grace reflects on her art school experience at Rhode Island School of Design, the significance of awards, and the courage to embrace her creative voice after personal loss. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the value of community and hard work in achieving success in the creative field.Follow along this journey to get insight into my career as an author and illustrator of books for young readers. I am the creator of the LUNCH LADY graphic novels and won a few awards for my graphic memoir HEY, KIDDO.▬ Contents of this video ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬02:52 The Role of Art and Storytelling in Coping05:47 Early Writing Experiences and Influences08:44 Navigating Parental Expectations and Cultural Identity11:59 Art School Journey and Challenges14:46 The Breakthrough with 'The Ugly Vegetables'17:36 Transitioning to Longer Works and Recognition24:24 Navigating Cultural Representation27:26 Embracing Personal Narratives30:25 The Impact of Awards and Recognition35:11 The Pressure of Expectations40:14 The Importance of Promotion and Community👨🏻‍💻Learn more about JJK and his books:https://studiojjk.com🗯Request information on JJK's keynotes and assemblies for schools, libraries, and institutions:https://studiojjk.com/keynotes🍎Download free resources for your classroom:https://studiojjk.com/freeresources✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️​​​​​​​​​​​​Jarrett J. Krosoczka, known since boyhood as "JJK," is the New York Times bestselling author/illustrator behind more than forty books for young readers, including his wildly popular Lunch Lady graphic novels, select volumes of the Star Wars™: Jedi Academy series, and Hey, Kiddo, which was a National Book Award Finalist. Krosoczka creates books with humor, heart, and deep respect for his young readers—qualities that have made his titles perennial favorites on the bookshelves of homes, libraries, and bookstores over the past twenty years. In addition to his work in print, Krosoczka produced, directed, and performed in the full-cast audiobook adaptations of his graphic novels. The Hey, Kidoo audiobook garnered both Audie and Odyssey Awards for excellence in audiobook production. The Lunch Lady audiobook cast is led by Kate Flannery (The Office) and is rounded out by famed audiobook narrators and real kid actors! Krosoczka has been a guest on NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross, has been profiled in The New York Times, was featured on Good Morning America, and has delivered three TED Talks, which have accrued millions of views online. Krosoczka has garnered millions of more views online via the tutorials he has produced for YouTube and TikTok. As well as working on his books' film and television adaptions, Krosoczka has also written for The Snoopy Show (Apple TV+) and served as a consultant for Creative Galaxy (Prime Video), and appeared in live segments for the show.Realizing that his books can inspire young readers beyond the page, Krosoczka founded School Lunch Hero Day, a national campaign celebrating school lunch staff. A consummate advocate for arts education, Krosoczka also established the Joseph and Shirley Krosoczka Memorial Youth Scholarships, which fund art classes for underprivileged children in his hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts.Krosoczka lives in western Massachusetts with his spouse, their three children, pugs Ralph and Frank, and a French bulldog named Bella Carmella.

How do you move beyond a difficult childhood?💬 Submit questions: https://StudioJJK.com/podcasts🛒 Support the show: https://StudioJJK.com/shopFollow along this journey to get insight into my career as an author and illustrator of books for young readers. I am the creator of the LUNCH LADY graphic novels and won a few awards for my graphic memoir HEY, KIDDO.

💬 Submit questions: StudioJJK.com/podcasts🛒 Support the show: StudioJJK.com/shopChris Van Allsburg is an award-winning picture book author and illustrator best known for beloved classics like The Polar Express, Jumanji, and The Garden of Abdul Gasazi. His imaginative storytelling and distinctive illustrations have earned him two Caldecott Medals and status of icon in children's literature. This interview is from 2013.

💬 Submit questions: https://StudioJJK.com/podcasts🛒 Support the show: https://StudioJJK.com/shopAnswering listener questions about being an author, illustrator, and a creative professional.

💬 Submit questions: https://StudioJJK.com/podcasts🛒 Support the show: https://StudioJJK.com/shop 📕 Support Jamar: https://bookshop.org/lists/jamar-nicholasIn this episode of the Origin Stories podcast, graphic novelist Jamar Nicholas shares his journey from a vibrant childhood in Philadelphia to his aspirations of becoming a cartoonist. He reflects on the influences of his family, particularly his mother, and the challenges he faced in high school and art school. Jamar discusses the importance of resilience, the impact of his peers, and the reality of dropping out of college while still pursuing his passion for art. His story is one of determination, creativity, and the pursuit of dreams against the odds. Jamar and Jarrett explore the complexities of the creative journey, discussing the importance of overcoming doubt, the role of self-motivation, and the significance of mentorship.

Trying out a new thing -- solo episodes in-between eps with guests. Let me know what you think? What would you like to know? Submit your questions to me via StudioJJK.com/podcasts

📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shopAs I gear up for new interviews, enjoy the audio from this panel that I moderated for Scholastic Graphix featuring Raina Telgemeier, Scott McCloud, Gale Galligan, and Jamar Nicholas!  📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shop

📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shopGene Luen Yang is a celebrated writer, artist, and educator whose works have left an indelible mark on the world of comics and literature. Renowned for his thought-provoking storytelling and insightful exploration of cultural, social, and identity themes, Yang has captivated audiences of all ages. Through his groundbreaking graphic novels, including "American Born Chinese," "Boxers & Saints," and his work on iconic characters like Superman and the Green Turtle, Yang intertwines the art of storytelling with powerful messages that resonate deeply with readers. As a MacArthur Fellowship recipient and National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, Yang's contributions extend beyond his compelling narratives, as he passionately advocates for diversity, representation, and the transformative potential of comics in education. His impact as a storyteller and advocate continues to inspire and shape the literary landscape, inviting readers into richly woven narratives that challenge perceptions and foster empathy.Gene Luen Yang is about to release his next graphic novel, Lunar New Year Love Story, a young adult romance. For this story, Yang Man teamed up with uber-talented and celebrated award-winning illustrator LeUyen Pham. An incredibly smart move because her artwork absolutely makes this book. It is gorgeous. You can support the show by checking out StudioJJK.com/shop, where you can purchase autographed books or commission artwork. You can also visit your local library and check out one of my books or a book by one of my guests! 📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shop

📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shopAaron Blabey is the best-selling author and illustrator behind massive hits like THE BAD GUYS, PIG THE PUG, and THELMA THE UNICORN. I was able to sit down with Aaron at Scholastic headquarters for the launch of his newest book—CAT ON THE RUN–which is the first in a trilogy. Get to know how Aaron went from childhood in rural Australia to where he is now!To support the show, please visit StudioJJK.com/shop. 📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shop

📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shopAmongst the literary luminaries I have been blessed to befriend in this writerly life is Eric Carle. It almost feels silly to deliver an introduction for him—is unique style and unmistakable illustrations have become a cornerstone of children's literature. Eric's most famous creation, "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," is a true masterpiece and a cherished book in countless homes and classrooms around the world.I had the opportunity to sit down with Eric in 2012 in the grand hall of The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Museum in Amherst, MA. I recently came across this interview on a backup drive and wanted to share it with you. We lost Eric in 2021, but his work and genius will forever be with us.Let's get to know Eric Carle's origin story! 📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shop

📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shopI miss my friend Tomie dePaola. In celebration of the US Postal Service issuing a Strega Nona stamp in his honor, I wanted to share this interview that I conducted with Tomie in the early 20-teens. Tomie's friendship is actually intertwined with the love story between me and Gina. When we started dating in 2006, she had her childhood copy of STREGA NONA with her in her Boston apartment. That book meant the world to her. About a month after dating Gina, I met Tomie at a conference. We were both out at the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators annual out in Los Angeles. Tomie and I became fast friends, and I bought the big Art of Tomie book and had it signed to both Gina and me. That was a big step -- a hardcover book signed to the both of us? But by then, I knew. And when Gina saw that i had the book signed to the both of us, well...she knew I knew.Over the years, Gina and I cherished our time with Tomie. He even dedicated a Strega Nona book to us! And it was a Christmas book as well, a holiday that both Tomie and Gina went over the top for.I hope that you enjoy this trip down memory lane. How I wish I could see his sparkle once again, but man do I feel so lucky to have this recording featuring his infectious laugh.So on this special on-between episode of Origin Stories, let's get to know Tomie DePaloa's origin story! 📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shop

📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shopMike Curato made a name for himself with beautiful picture books like his Litle Elliot series—heartwarming stories with beautiful illustrations reminiscent of Chris van Allsburg.  In the fall of 2020, Mike published FLAMER, a semi-autobiographical tale about a mixed-race teen coming to terms with his sexuality while at scout camp. It is a raw, unflinching, and authentic look at a coming-of-age story. I was asked to blurb FLAMER, I wrote "This book will save lives." It is so important for our young people to see their stories reflected in literature. Amongst the mini accolades FLMAER received was a Lambda Literacy Award, whcih celebrates books from the LGBTQ+ community. I’m proud to bring you my pal Mike Curato's Origin Story! 📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shop

📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shopI'm so excited to be bringing you Molly Knox Ostertag's Origin Story! Molly is so incredibly talented. She switches her creative time between graphic novels and animation. And it's fascinating to what overlaps and what is very different between those two mediums.Molly started her graphic novel career with THE WITCH BOY, and if you haven't read that book and the subsequent sequels, it's about this boy named Astrid. Astrid lives in this contemporary magical world in which boys do warlock stuff, and women do witch stuff. But Astrid knows he was meant to be a witch and he has witch powers, and I don't want to give away anything about the book. You have to read it for yourself! Also, Molly Osertag's other book, THE GIRL FROM THE SEA,  like THE WITCH BOY, is a  contemporary fantasy that centers queer characters who have magical powers. I first met her some years ago when her first book was debuting at Comic-Con and she's a delight and she's an incredible talent, and here she her Origin Story! 📚 Use code PODCAST to receive 10% off at StudioJJK.com/shop

In today's episode, I talk to Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm—siblings and co-creators of the bestselling, award-winning and trail-blazing Babymouse And Squish graphic novel series. I can't understate just how important their work is to the current-day landscape of graphic novels for young readers. Babymouse: Queen of the World was published in December of 2005—it was one of the very first kids' comics put out by one of the major trade publishers. Jenni, Matt, and I go way back, but I was so excited to learn more about their history. Let's get into Jenni and Matt's Origin Story!

On today's episode, we'll get to know graphic novelist Nate Powell! Nate is a highly-acclaimed writer/artist of critically acclaimed books such as Any Empire, Swallow Me Whole and Save It for Later: Promises, Parenthood, and the Urgency of Protest. Nate Powell is an Eisner Award-winning comics artist from Little Rock, Arkansas who focuses on telling stories featuring young people facing difficult situations. In addition to Nate's multiple Eisners and countless literary awards—Nate took home the 2016 National Book Award for Young People's Literature, alongside his collaborators Representative John Lewis and Andrew Aydin, for March: Book Three. Let's learn all about Nate Powell's Origin Story!