Episode 210: The Next Phase of Representation in Children’s Literature

This week, two acclaimed children's book authors—Clothilde Ewing and Malcolm Newsome—discuss their visions and aspirations for children's literature. In particular, ways they have and will continue to both write and advocate for stories that feature BIPOC characters in settings and narratives that move beyond purely historical and overtly "cultural" experiences. This conversation originally took place May 19, 2025 and was recorded live at the 2024 American Writers Festival. We hope you enjoy entering the Mind of a Writer. AWM PODCAST NETWORK HOME About the writers: CLOTHILDE EWING is the author of Stella Keeps the Sun Up (Simon & Schuster BFYR, 2022), Stella and the Mystery of the Missing Tooth (Simon & Schuster BFYR, 2023), and Stella and Roger Can’t Wait to Grow Up (Simon & Schuster BFYR, 2024). MALCOLM NEWSOME is a traditionally published children’s book author and cyber security expert from the Chicago area. He is a married father of five who has a deep passion for telling stories of hope and possibilities. When he’s not writing or spending time with family, you’ll probably find him either reading, spending time outside in his mini-orchard, or being a lumberjack. His first children’s picture book, Dear Star Baby, released in April 2023. His second picture book, Sydney’s Big Speech, released with HarperCollins in February 2024. He also has several forthcoming titles with HarperCollins and Holt:Macmillan.