In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Book with JoAnn Dickinson, I sit down with Katie Gigliotti—teacher, illustrator, bestselling children’s book author, and self-publishing mentor. Katie shares how her roles as a mom, educator, and creative spark her storytelling and illustration process.

We discussed the personal inspirations behind her books, her upcoming playful series about color, and what it’s like to bring other authors’ visions to life as an illustrator. Katie also opens up about keeping a childlike sense of wonder alive, much like her grandfather, balancing faith and family with creativity, and why it’s important for authors to give themselves permission to create just for fun.

Whether you’re an aspiring writer, illustrator,or simply curious about the creative journey, this episode is packed with heartfelt advice and encouragement.

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Katie Gigliotti

www.katiegigliotti.com

IG: katiegigliottibooks

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In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Book with JoAnn Dickinson, I sat down with Dr. Latonya Peterson, author, educator, and community leader, to explore how storytelling can be a powerful tool for building emotional resilience and self-confidence in children.

With deep roots in Georgia and a career dedicated to leadership and justice, Dr. Peterson and her husband co-author heartfelt children’s books that blend adventure with Social Emotional Learning (SEL).

We discuss the inspiration behind their writing, the impact of their work in the classroom, their community, and their mission to shape the next generation of compassionate kids.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or aspiring author, this episode will uplift and empower you.

🎧 Tune in to learn more about how this family is helping their community and others to thrive.

Dr. Latoya Peterson:

Books on Amazon

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Let's go Beyond the Book and into the heart of storytelling that makes a difference.

Children’s author interview: Suzy Duffy on United Tales of America, 50 fairy tales for 50 states blending SEL for kids, geography for kids, and engaging stories for reluctant readers. With 2M+ video views, 7 published books, and multiple #1 Amazon bestsellers, Suzy shares how a decade in Boston with five children sparked a gratitude project that’s become a movement.

Discover how Suzy and illustrator Mike Roberts craft hand-painted characters (Michigan Muppenuff, California Quackadoo, New Jersey Nuddleup), pair celebrity narrators with each state, and weave social-emotional learning (kindness, confidence, voice) into unforgettable read-alouds for classrooms, libraries, and homeschools.📚 Every State Has a Story, and this is one journey you don’t want to miss!👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring author interviews.www.UnitiedTalesofAmerica.com @unitedtalesofamerica3530

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