The excitement in the air was palpable as hundreds of educators, school and public librarians, and future teachers gathered to celebrate the 56th annual Georgia Conference on Children's Literature in Athens on March 21.
Following an introduction by conference chair Petros Panaou, Denise Spangler, Dean of the Mary Frances Early College of Education, welcomed the attendees. The anticipation increased as Christine Tigue and Genise Vertus announced the 2025 GCBA Picturebook winner, Mr. S: A First Day of School Book, written and illustrated by Monica Arnaldo.
The first general session featured a keynote by J. Kasper Kramer, a middle grades children's author renowned for her work in historical fiction and 2024 winner of the Georgia Children's Book Award for Grades 4-8, who described meeting one of her favorite authors as a child and the impact that encounter had on her writing journey.
She addressed the critical role libraries play in fostering intellectual freedom and emotional growth. Kramer emphasized that libraries often serve as safe havens where children can freely explore questions.
Drawing from her own childhood experiences, Kramer fondly recalled the joy of browsing library shelves and bringing home "irresponsibly" large stacks of books, a habit she continues to this day. This unbridled freedom to read nurtured her love for storytelling and shaped her career as an author.
"I believe stories can save us," Kramer remarked.
Kramer's insightful talk was followed by a refreshment break, offering attendees the opportunity to visit exhibits and get books signed by the authors. Concurrent sessions then took place, providing a platform for in-depth discussions and workshops.
The afternoon continued with the announcement of the 2025 GCBA Grades 4-8 winner by committee members Tally Duschene and Sara Kajder. The winner was Hands by Torrey Maldonado.
The second general session featured a keynote by Davide Cali, the award-winning author who penned the I Didn't Do My Homework Because... series. The day included a luncheon and the GCBA Award Presentation, where J. Kasper Kramer was honored by Duschene and Kajder. The final keynote speaker, Leslea Newman, an award-winning author of 85 books, inspired the audience with her discussion.
Throughout the day, there were several sessions for guests to choose from with topics about motivating readers and fostering a love of reading outside of school to encouraging self-awareness through stories and empowering young writers.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm for children's literature. Attendees engaged in lively conversations, shared ideas, and celebrated the power of storytelling.
The conference served as a reminder of the importance of nurturing a love for reading in young minds and the profound impact literature can have on their lives. The 56th Georgia Conference on Children's Literature proved to be a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and motivated to continue promoting the joy of reading.
