The Illustrator of COOLIES, the book that inspired this channel

Chris Soentpiet is a highly acclaimed illustrator renowned for his exceptional work on numerous multicultural children's books. He boasts an impressive array of accolades, including the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work and the Parents Magazine Best Book of the Year. Notably, his contributions have also been recognized with the International Reading Association (IRA) Book Award for titles such as "MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE," "MOLLY BANNAKY," and "COOLIES,". Soentpiet's artistic brilliance has graced the pages of esteemed publications like the New York Times, Houston Chronicle, Ebony Magazine, Newsweek, and USA Today. Beyond his artistic prowess, he holds a background in education, endowing him with a deep understanding of the academic needs of teachers and students alike. One of his passions involves engaging with young readers and inspiring a love for literature. He achieves this by actively visiting schools, both in-person and through virtual means, captivating kids with the joys of reading. His books, in conjunction with his author visit program, play a pivotal role in promoting multiculturalism and diversity. Educators seamlessly integrate his work into their curricula, utilizing his stories as a powerful tool for imparting essential lessons about different cultures. To learn more about Chris Soentpiet and his remarkable body of work, please visit his official website at chrissoentpiet.com