Adam has written on travel, crime, politics, archaeology, and civil wars – both contemporary and historical – for outlets like the BBC, NPR, and The Christian Science Monitor, and is a regular author for Lonely Planet, where he has contributed to over 100 guidebooks, covering every continent bar Antarctica. His creative nonfiction has appeared in multiple non-fiction anthologies, as well as Catapult, The Bitter Southerner, Stranger's Guide, Huck, Worldhum, and The Statesider; he also has a notable essay listed in The Best American Travel Writing 2020.

Meredith Jao is a children’s book author, advertising strategist, and former Tulane tennis player (’16) living in New Orleans. She and her husband, Chishan Jao—an illustrator, creative designer, and fellow former Tulane tennis player (’17) originally from Taiwan—teamed up on the court and now collaborate as a husband-and-wife storytelling duo. The Hesitant Hedgehog is their debut picture book for fans of Frog and Toad and Little Bear about nurturing acceptance in yourself and others.

Loreal Ivory is an educator and author from New Orleans, Louisiana. She is passionate about early childhood education and providing access to resources that support student learning and growth. For nearly a decade, she has taught in both elementary and postsecondary sectors of education. She is currently a success coach for recent high school graduates. Loreal wants to motivate students and provide opportunities that best support them in their academic and career endeavors.

Leslie Helakoski is the author of many picture books, including Are Your Stars Like My Stars? illustrated by Heidi Woodword Sheffield, and Woolbur illustrated by Lee Harper. She has also written and illustrated several books, including Hoot & Honk Just Can’t Sleep. She is a recipient of the 2020 Gwen Frostic Award for her work in literacy and divides her time between south Louisiana and northern Michigan.

M.R. Fournet’s ties to New Orleans are part of her own origin story. As as kid, she would go fishing in South Louisiana and eat crawfish with her family in Houma. She has always been fascinated by the myths and legends of New Orleans. When not writing, she is a professional artist, belly dancer, and autism mom. She now lives in Texas with her husband, son, and ungrateful cat. Brick Dust and Bones is her middle grade debut.
 

Marti Dumas is a mom, teacher, and creative entrepreneur from New Orleans.  An expert in childhood literacy, Marti has worked with children and teachers across the country for the last 15 years to promote an early love o

The recipient of the 2017 Louisiana Writer Award, Johnette Downing is a musician, author, illustrator, and poet dedicated to sharing her Louisiana roots music and books with children across the globe. Called the "Cajun Raffi" and the "Pied Piper of Louisiana Music Traditions" by the media, Johnette has performed on five continents, has received dozens of awards, and is the author of thirty books and twelve recordings. 

Adam Dennis is an author living in New Orleans, LA. He earned his bachelor’s degree from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA, and his Juris Doctorate from Capital University Law School in Columbus, OH.

Naomi DeBerry is the author of My Daddy Needs a Gift. Like the main character in the book, Naomi is a young leader who cares about her family and community and wants wellness for all. She dreams of being a transplant surgeon someday.
Naomi is a stellar student who loves swimming, gardening, and playing the violin and clarinet. The 7th grader has appeared in commercials, a national talk show, and public service announcements. 

Tessa B.H. Ruiz grew up in Portland, Oregon. She received her BA in Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, where, in the depths of the library, she became enamored with the architecture of New Orleans. After living in the French Quarter, she wrote her debut picture book, The House, the Ghost, and Me, in 2015 under the watchful eye of her newborn. Tessa currently lives in Portland with her husband and two daughters.