
Picture Books Are for Grown-Ups Too!
Picture books aren’t just for children. Picture books are for grown-ups too! Listen in as we speak with picture book authors, illustrators, and enthusiasts about how these stories contribute to human thriving. Discover how picture books can affirm our experiences, introduce us to new perspectives, serve as conversation starters, foster meaningful reflection, and give us words to make sense of the world! Ultimately, you’re never too old for a great picture book AND these tiny tales can lead to big connection! Join us for the journey, and discover something that might contribute to YOUR thriving.
Picture Books Are for Grown-Ups Too!
S1E20 | Judy Allen Dodson and 'The Ashe Brothers: How Arthur and Johnnie Changed Tennis Forever'
“We can give and share our gifts no matter where we are. No matter where we are in life, no matter what we are going through, we all have gifts to share.” –Judy Allen Dodson
Today we’re talking the beauty and importance of sports, sibling love, and the reality of using our gifts to have an impact on others and our communities.
Today’s Picture Book: The Ashe Brothers: How Arthur and Johnnie Changed Tennis Forever by Judy Allen Dodson and illustrated by David Wilkerson
Judy Allen Dodson is a librarian, archivist, and children's book author. Judy has a passion for writing captivating stories, celebrating diverse children's literature, and teaching young readers about history. She's the author of Escape From Hurricane Katrina and The Ashe Brothers: How Arthur and Johnnie Changed Tennis Forever. Visit her online at judyallendodson.com.
Book Description: In 1968, Arthur Ashe climbed his way to the top of the tennis world in a time filled with racial tension and segregation. But his success didn't happen without help. Arthur's close relationship with his younger brother, Johnnie, was key to Arthur becoming the first Black man to break the color barrier in men's tennis. A layered story full of love, sibling rivalry, and unconditional support, The Ashe Brothers tells the little-known story behind Arthur's Grand Slam win.
Please consider supporting your local independent booksellers by purchasing The Ashe Brothers. Find a store here: https://www.indiebound.org/
Other mentions in this episode:
Escape from . . . Hurricane Katrina by Judy Allen Dodson
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” –Arthur Ashe
More info about Joseph Holt Jr.
Questions/Activities for further engagement based on the discussion:
1. What are your gifts?
2. What can I do to support the areas I think are important to our community and humanity?
3. How can you empower others to do for each other?
Find Judy:
Website: https://judyallendodson.com/
Twitter: @jadlibrarian
Instagram/Facebook: @JudyAllenDodson
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Ripening Time, Patrice's 2nd picture book, releases April 22, 2025. Order your copy from your local bookstore or one of Patrice's local bookstores!
Also, please visit the podcast’s bookshop.org page for a complete list of books discussed!