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!
S2E2 | Janelle Harper and 'My Block Looks Like'
Janelle Harper and My Block Looks Like
“Your neighborhood has its own soundtrack.” –Janelle Harper
Today we’re talking about feeling seen, connecting across generations, recalling what was important to you as a child, and celebrating the place where you grew up.
Today’s Picture Book: My Block Looks Like by Janelle Harper and illustrated by Frank Morrison
Janelle Harper is a Bronx native who proudly carries her New York accent anywhere she goes. As a children’s book author, Janelle is passionate about representation. She hopes to create stories that make children fall more in love with themselves. She’s drawn to stories that are lyrical, multi-generational or showcase non-traditional storytelling structures.
Since she was a child, Janelle possessed a deep love for reading and writing. Her head was often buried in a book. On holidays, she would show off her writing skills by creating personalized greeting cards for family members using construction paper and lots of glitter!
Janelle comes from a long line of educators. She is a veteran New York City public school teacher who is dedicated to providing equitable education and opportunities for Black and brown children. Janelle can often be found blasting music in dance rehearsal, yelling 5-6-7-8, preparing for elaborate productions.
Book Description: A love letter to the hustle, the bustle, the joy, and the grit of city life.
“My block looks like
a collision of cultures
a melting pot of cool
a burst of life
my favorite groove”
A lyrical and proud picture book that recognizes the beauty of the bodegas, subways, and playgrounds that characterize everyday life in the Bronx and pays homage to the ways that its residents have shaped pop culture through music, visual art, and dance. My Block Looks Like offers kids a reaffirming message to celebrate and uplift their communities in an energetic text that begs to be read aloud.
Please consider supporting your local independent booksellers by purchasing My Block Looks Like. Find a store here: https://www.indiebound.org/
Questions/Activities for further engagement based on the discussion:
1. Can you think about your community or neighborhood through the lens of the five senses? (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch)
2. Draw or write a poem about your own block or your experience growing up. Maybe start with the prompt, “My block looks like . . .”
Find Janelle:
Website: www.janelleharperauthor.com
Instagram, Bluesky, Threads: @BXStoryteller
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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!
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