Session Overview: Local authors Yvette Faye, Christine Nishiyama, and Anna Welsh will lead a panel exploring how children’s literature can nurture emotional strength, creativity, and community connection. 

About the Authors:

• Yvette Faye is a senior at Appalachian State University, majoring in Dance Studies with a minor in Hospitality Management.  Originally from Avery County, North Carolina, she is the author of the children's book series Frances the Otter, inspired by the landscapes, communities, and resilience of rural Appalachia.  Literacy holds deep personal importance to her because her grandfather struggled with reading and writing throughout his life while still working tirelessly to provide for his family.  Through the Frances the Otter series, Yvette hopes to encourage literacy, storytelling, environmental stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for Appalachian communities among future generations of readers.

• Christine Nishiyama is the author and/or illustrator of eight books, including the four-book Layla and the Bots series published by Scholastic, two indie children's picture books, and two indie craft books.  She also writes weekly essays for her email newsletter and teaches online classes with more than 125,000 students.  Christine creates her art in a variety of mediums, but especially loves drawing with alcohol markers, Posca paint pens, and Tombow brush pens.  The past year, she has been on maternity leave, soaking up snuggles with her second baby, and is excited to start working on her newest book series this fall.  

• Anna Welsh is a retired elementary school educator who has taught in Atlanta, Asheville, and Boone.  After retiring, she finished her Art Education degree and opened The Blue House Art Studio.  She wrote and illustrated her first book, Resilient: The Strongest Little Sap, in 2025.  The book's proceeds go to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.  She has also illustrated Pam Lather's books, Doc Moves to the Mountains and Doc Makes Friends.  These books' proceeds go to Southern Sun Farms Horse Sanctuary.  In addition to writing and illustrating, she also volunteers in her community.