Art Coulson
Art Coulson is a writer of Cherokee, English and Dutch descent and comes from a family of storytellers in all three traditions.
A Navy brat, Art traveled the world, attending 14 schools on three continents before graduating high school. Art served as the first executive director of the Wilma Mankiller Foundation in the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma after an award-winning 25-year career in journalism, including a stint as editorial page editor of the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
He is the author of more than a dozen books, graphic novels and plays, including the middle grade novel, Chasing Bigfoot (2022), The Reluctant Storyteller (2020), and Look, Grandma! Ni, Elisi! (2021). The Reluctant Storyteller was named a best book of 2020 by Bank Street and American Indians in Children’s Literature. Look, Grandma! Ni, Elisi! was named a best STEM children’s book by the National Science Teaching Association in 2021 and featured on the inaugural broadcast of Reading Rainbow Live!
His short stories have appeared in anthologies from Benchmark and Heartdrum, an imprint of HarperCollins.
Art is represented by Jacqui Lipton at The Tobias Literary Agency.
Kiersten Hall
Kiersten Hall is a 14-year speaker/presenter, 29-year comedienne-in-hiding, 32-year entrepreneur, 37-year salesperson, lifelong 'wanderlust.' In 2022, she will become an 'empty-nester' after 29 years of children in the house and is already planning her escape via several literary events, designed to keep her busy (and out of trouble.)
Notice the same number of years for both the in-house children and the comedic outlook on life. Coincidence?
To date, Kiersten has six published books with another three 'in the works' for 2023. Much like her varied interests, she tends to write about whatever piques her curiosity, giving her the ability to share her stories with all ages, across several different genres.
Dr. Artika R. Tyner
Dr. Artika R. Tyner is a passionate educator, author, sought after speaker, and advocate for justice. Dr. Tyner is a law professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law. She is committed to training students to serve as social engineers who create new inroads to justice and freedom.
Bao Phi
Bao Phi is a Vietnamese Minnesotan spoken word poet, children's book author, and father. He is the author of several picture books, including A Different Pond, which was awarded a Caldecott Honor and a Zolotow medal, and his newest book, You Are Life.
Sarah Warren
Sarah is an artist educator and an award-winning children's book author. She loves to share stories about cool women who use their everyday powers to change the world. Sarah’s family lives in Minneapolis with their dog, Bruce Valentine. Find out more at sarahwbooks.com and picturebookparade.com
