Join us for a special visit with renowned picture book author and illustrator Eric Velasquez as he reads his stories and shares his creative process! Mr. Velasquez is an award-winning children’s book creator whose works draw from his experiences growing up in an Afro-Puerto Rican family in Harlem.

He is the author of Looking for Bongo, Octopus Stew, The Polar Bear and the Ballerina (due October 2025), and more! Mr. Velasquez is also the illustrator of over 30 picture books like A Sweet Smell of Roses and Outspoken: Paul Robeson, Ahead of His Time. 

Free books will be available while supplies last. ALA attendees are encouraged to join! 

This series is made possible by funding from the Philadelphia City Institute Board of Managers.