Susan Gal – illustratör

Perfect for classroom sharing and back to school, this poignant picture book based on a true story celebrates a beloved teacher and his commitment to making sure all kids feel welcome in his classroom.From art to science, history to math, there are so many things to learn at school! But Mr. Gill's students are most interested in learning about the empty chair that sits in the front of their classroom. He tells them a story from his childhood about his Black best friend, Archie, the racism they experienced at a classmate's birthday party, when Archie was told there wasn't a chair for him, and how it inspired Mr. Gill to prioritize inclusivity and love. In this true story of bravery and belonging from longtime elementary school teacher Dan Gill and gorgeously illustrated by Susan Gal, readers will learn to always keep an extra chair in their home and in their hearts.

From the beloved pathbreaking author of Heather Has Two Mommies, comes a vibrant ode to family and communityWhat a happy day!Zachary’s baby sister will have her naming ceremony. In the temple! With his moms, the congregation, and all their friends!He’s so excited he can barely contain it. On the walk from their home, they meet neighbor after neighbor who want to know the baby’s name.But — not yet! — his mothers tell him. The tradition is to have a great reveal at the ceremony. So they invite each neighbor to come along. A colorful, diverse parade blooms along the route, until… At last it’s time, and Zachary gets to reveal his sister’s name…What is it?A truly JOYFUL moment for everyone!BEST OF THE YEARSchool Library Journal • Publishers Weekly • The Horn Book • Boston Globe • New York Public Library • Chicago Public Library • Kirkus • Cooperative Children's Book Council P R A I S ESydney Taylor Honor Winner ★ “Radiant artwork has soft pencil and crayon textures and tissue-paper-like layers of bright colors, capturing the coziness of Zachary’s home, their neighborhood’s tropical setting, and the sacred space where a loving, variously inclusive community has gathered to welcome their newest member.” —Publishers Weekly (starred)★ “Words and art brim with warmth; the love and support in this diverse community are palpable… A soaring ode to community, tradition, and family.” —Kirkus (starred) “This charming tale captures the joy and excitement of welcoming a new addition to the family, while also highlighting the warmth of community and Jewish tradition. The colorful illustrations add depth and richness to the story, depicting the dynamic diversity of the neighborhood and the love that surrounds the family. A loving tale that beautifully celebrates of family, faith, and the bonds that unite us.” —Booklist “Featuring beautiful, vibrant illustrations, this charming story offers insights into a Jewish tradition and the importance of community.”—Jewish Books for Kids“Enchanting… Vibrant art exudes warmth and love and the joy of new beginnings.” —SF Datebook“Newman, acclaimed author of Heather Has Two Mommies and more than 80 other books, has here crafted a story both lyrical and delightful, while Gal's lush watercolor illustrations befit the vibrant community.” —Bay Windows

In this gentle story about how we respond to events in the world around us, a young child discovers that his feelings can color the way he experiences everyday ups and downs.Much like a painter selecting from a colorful palette, we all have power to choose how we react to the world around us.From spring rain to summer heat, autumn winds and winter snow, there can be a wide range of emotions. The same sun that melts ice cream warms the ocean water. The rain that cancels a baseball game helps the flowers to grow. Joy and sadness, beauty and disappointment—our feelings are shaped by our inner power, coloring our response to the world around us.Bold, vibrant artwork by award-winning illustrator Susan Gal brings color and movement to this emotion-centered debut picture book by Esther Novak.STARRED REVIEW "It's an unabashedly uplifting message—a flexible attitude makes its own weather—delivered with frown-fixing verve." —Publisher's Weekly"This gentle, visually engaging title will resonate when supporting discussions about feelings, resilience, and mindset." —School Library Journal