Children's Institute Program

New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer will open ABC Children's Institute 2014 with a plenary talk about the need for real heroes in children's literature for both boys and girls beyond sports figures, princesses and franchise characters.  I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln (Dial/Penguin Young Readers Group)—the first two titles in his Ordinary People Change the World series of nonfiction picture books—follow renowned American heroes from childhood and the particular character traits that led them to fame and achievement.  In his talk, Brad will share his inspiration behind his books—his own kids—and discuss how all of us can discover the power of an ordinary person, and the power and potential in each of us.

Poolside reception to follow

If weather does not allow for an outdoor reception, please join us in Aztec A & B.

Tim Federle's middle grade novels, Better Nate Than Ever and Five, Six, Seven, Nate! (Simon & Schuster for Young Readers), were inspired by his backstage Broadway adventures, where he began crashing auditions as a teenage before joining the casts of The Little Mermaid and Gypsy, and going on to coach the child stars of Billy Elliot.  In his funny and interactive talk on diversity, Tim will recount his journey from bullied teen to Broadway dancer to debut novelist, and share his secrets to turning weaknesses into strengths.

With the Children's Institute's publisher sponsors generously providing a wealth of material, the Galley Room is sure to be a hit. The room will be open throughout the day, so be sure to stop in!

Award-winning graphic designer Chip Kidd will bring to life many of the ideas from his recent book, Go: A Kidd’s Guide to Graphic Design (Workman), and discuss a number of dynamic and interesting design projects for curious children that your store can offer as authorless events.  With playful explanations of color, form and other basic elements, Chip will also share design ideas for bookstores.

Enjoy lunch and learn about great upcoming titles at the Rep Picks Speed Dating luncheon.

A bookseller at The Twig Book Shop (San Antonio, TX) and a professional storyteller with more than 3,000 performances at bookstores, schools and libraries, Anastasia McKenna – know to children as "Miss Anastasia" – believes deeply in the importance of creating a human connection through reading.  With a storytime demonstration, Miss Anastasia will show how certain children's books can be like user's manuals, and with simple techniques like facial expressions, vocal inflections and dramatic pauses, stores can host lively and entertaining storytimes on a budget and with limited staff.