RI’s East Bay is a Hub for Children’s Lit All-Stars

Children’s book author Jamie Michalak loves writing humorous books with heart. She is the author of Hazel the Handful, a story of a puppy who’s the center of attention until the arrival of a new baby, as well as the Frank and Bean series, three books that follow two food characters whose opposite personalities lead them on laugh-out-loud adventures. Michalak has been writing board books, picture books, and early readers for the past 20 years. “I always try to write stories that appeal to parents, too, so the story is almost working on two levels,” says Michalak, who worked as a children’s book editor early in her career. “The whole experience of
reading with your kids is so special.”

Michalak is one of the many children’s book authors who call the East Bay home. And, in true Rhode Island fashion, this vibrant cluster of storytellers all know each other. “Rhode Island’s a small state, and children’s books are a small world. We’re like a bubble within a bubble,” said Michalak, who resides in Barrington. “We feel like family because it’s such a tight little group.”

Illustrator R.W. Alley, known for bringing Michael Bond’s Paddington Bear to life through his iconic designs of a playful bear in a bright blue duffle coat and red brimmed hat, also crafts his own picture books, including Firefighters to the Rescue and Hospital Heroes Save the Day, which celebrate everyday heroes. His wife, Zoë B. Alley, is also a storyteller, having authored two books that reimagine classic fairy tales.

Author and illustrator Mary Jane Begin brings a painterly touch to her storytelling. Her whimsical picture books, such as Ping Meets Pang and Willow Buds, the Tale of Toad and Badger, explore themes of friendship and other valuable life lessons. Writing for slightly older readers, Mark Peter Hughes is known for his novel Lemonade Mouth, which was adapted into a Disney Channel original movie and explores the concept of resilience, identity, and finding your voice through the lens of a misfit band of teens.

“Often, we’ll see each other at our book events, wanting to see each other’s new releases and support the local, independent bookstores,” said Christopher Denise, adding that there’s a monthly kid-lit drink night where creatives chat about what they’re working on. Usually meeting in Providence, the event draws individuals from around the region.

Having illustrated books since the 1990s, Denise – whose wife, Anika Aldamuy Denise, is also a celebrated author – began writing during the pandemic. His 2022 debut book, Knight Owl, follows an owl who dreams of being a knight. Michalak, he added, was one of his first readers when he sought feedback during the creative process.

Denise noted that the East Bay’s creative energy is no coincidence. Many authors and illustrators in the area have ties to the Rhode Island School of Design – whether alumni or faculty. Additionally, with most book publishers based in New York City and several more in the Boston area, including children’s publisher Candlewick Press, living between the two hubs makes travel to either location relatively easy.

“To create a picture book is a magical thing,” he said. “It’s a very fluid piece of artwork, but it only really comes to life when it’s read, and that’s what I like to create: just this moment where this art form comes to life through the combination of pictures, words, and participation of the readers. And if they [kids and parents] can have a moment of joy and humor, then I’ve done my job.”