Jennifer Sommer and Kerrie Hollihan

In this podcast episode, 2025 WiR Mary Kay Carson interviews two regional children's book authors: Jennifer Sommer and Kerrie Hollihan. Originally from Lexington, KY, Sommer currently lives in Dayton, OH. Hear Sommer read from Her Eyes Were on the Stars, her debut award-winning picture book. Sommer received degrees in Political Science as well as Interior Design and Architectural Technology before earning her Masters in Library Science. After two decades working as a children’s librarian, she returned to university to earn an MFA in Creative Writing for Children and Young Adults. Hollihan is the award-winning author of nine nonfiction books for kids and teens. Her latest chapter book, Avery’s Pumpkin, saw her take a turn into fiction—but it’s an idea she has had in mind for over 30 years. Hear from both authors as they read from their books and discuss the world of hybrid publishing with Carson.