Robyn McGrath – författare

You've likely heard of the performer Dolly Parton. But do you know where this dazzling songwriter and musician draws her roots? As one of twelve children growing up in rural Tennessee, Dolly was determined to be seen and heard. From her front porch to her church choir, every stage was an opportunity to perform and share her many talents. While balancing farm chores with schoolwork, Dolly never lost sight of her dreams, composing her first song at age five and performing at the Grand Ole Opry at age thirteen. With lilting language and vibrant artwork, this childhood story captures the unique gifts of Dolly Parton, while also honoring the measures of her success: resilience, confidence, family, and kindness.

A girl struggles to say goodbye to the family table until she discovers that a new, bigger table means more room for creating memories and welcoming loved ones in this heartwarming picture book perfect for fans of All Are Welcome, The Bench, and A Grand Day.Clare loves her family’s table—it’s the perfect size for homework help and pancake breakfasts. But with Grandpa moving in, Mama says they need a bigger one. Clare is excited for Grandpa’s arrival, but not ready to say goodbye to the old table. When the new table arrives, neighbors help clean, sand, and paint. Friends and family bring over puzzles and peaches to help make Grandpa feel at home. But it’s not until Clare helps Papa make Grandpa’s favorite treat that she finally sees how this table means more space for creating new memories. And that when it comes to the people you love, there’s always room for one more.

In the 1970s, an all-male ballet company called Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo was formed in New York City—but the dancers did not play only traditional male roles on stage. Instead, “The Trocks” dressed in tutus and wigs. They danced in both male and female roles. Their practices and performances were precise and serious, but the dancers brought joy, comedy, and whimsy to the stage! With determination, hard work, and a desire to create an all-inclusive and empowering LGBTQ community, Les Ballets Trockadero is a global sensation today, and its international cast of dancers perform sold-out shows worldwide. They celebrated their fiftieth aniversary in 2024.Brave New Ballet educates young readers about the true story of dancers who dreamed of performing as their truest selves. With delightful illustrations by Alexander Mostov, this nonfiction story leaps, jetés, and pirouettes across the pages with a dedication to an inclusive vision.