CARON LEVIS (MFA; LMSW) is the author of several picture books including her duo of animal-friendship stories illustrated by Charles Santoso: This Way, Charlie (Abrams) and Ida, Always (Atheneum) which the New York Times Book Review calls, "an example of children's books at their best." Other titles include: Stop That Yawn! (Atheneum 2018) illustrated by LeUyen Pham; May I Have A Word? (FSG) il. by Andy Rash, and Mama's Work Shoes (Abrams 2019) il. by Vanessa Brantley Newton.

After many years as an arts educator, Caron now loves using acting and writing to teach social, emotional, and literacy skills to students of all ages through her author workshops. Having trained in acting and dabbled in playwriting, Caron also enjoys turning theatre techniques into writing tools for groan-ups through her workshops Act-Like-A-Writer and supporting caregiver communication through Words For Loss. Caron teaches at NYU and is a professor and the coordinator for The New School's Writing for Children/YA MFA program. As a social worker Caron has worked with student military veterans and as a facilitator of loss & bereavement groups for children. More information about Caron and author visits can be found on her website www.caronlevis.com

Charles Santoso loves drawing little things in his little journal and dreaming about funny, wondrous stories. He gathers inspiration from his childhood memories and curiosities he discovers in his everyday travels.

He has illustrated several picture books, including The Snurtch and I don’t Like Koala – both written by Sean Ferrell, Ida, Always – written By Caron Levis, which was mentioned in the New York Times as “an example of children’s books at their best”, Peanut Butter & Brains – written by Joe McGee and Penguin & Tiny Shrimp Don’t Do Bedtime – written by Cate Berry. Also a New York Times bestseller Wishtree by Katherine Applegate and A Boy Called Bat by Elana K Arnold.

He worked at Animal Logic as a concept artist/art director and was involved in various animated feature film and tv commercial projects.

Charles Santoso’s work has been exhibited in Sydney and also internationally in North America and France.

Visit www.charlessantoso.com to see more of his work.