KidsLIVE! Author Talk with Alex Gino

by Alex Gino

When people look at Melissa, they think they see a boy named George. But she knows she's not a boy. She knows she's a girl. Melissa thinks she'll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte's Web. Melissa really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can't even try out for the part... because she's a boy. With the help of her best friend, Kelly, Melissa comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte—but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.

Green, a non-binary middle-schooler, comes into their own in no small part by fighting for gender-free casting in their school's production of The Wizard of Oz.

When her new baby sister is born deaf, Jilly makes an online connection with a fellow fantasy fan, who happens to be Black and deaf, and begins to learn about the many obstacles that exist in the world for people who are different from her.

Entering his town’s contest for a new statue, nonbinary Sam delves into the history of his subject, photographer Alice Austen, and discovers a rich queer history that they are part of—one they must stand up for. 

by Robin Gow 

12-year-old nonbinary B forms a connection with an anxious stray dog, Gooseberry, prompting them to pursue their dream of becoming a dog trainer while navigating the complexities of trust and building a family in their newest foster home.

by Caroline Huntoon

Challenged by her ex-best friend to get Linus, a shy trans boy, elected as student body president, hotheaded cynic Etta wonders if she should come clean about the real origins of their connection when a true friendship develops between them.

By Mariama J. Lockington

Everyone expects the only Black girls at Harmony Music Camp to be friends, but Andi and Zora couldn't be more different. When forced to spend time together, they confide in each other about performance pressure, family issues, and a self-harm secret. They discover a spark of friendship—and maybe something more.

Create a portrait of yourself that shows your strengths and how they can benefit your world!

Use basic supplies to create a quilt collage reflecting you and your identity. There’s no right or wrong here. What type of quilt will you make?

Choose a favorite fairy tale or story, gather props and costumes from home, and act it out with your family. How did the main characters solve their problems?

Find out more about Alex and their work on their website.