2026 VCBF

  • Recommended Ages: 4–8 (Picture Books)
    Cátia is the award-winning illustrator of "The Bear and the Moon." Her dreamlike artwork blends texture, color, and emotion to enhance lyrical storytelling.

  • Recommended Ages: 10–14 (Middle Grade)
    Pablo writes novels such as "The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora" and "Each Tiny Spark," exploring Latinx identity, family, and activism through humor and heart.

  • Recommended Ages: 7–12 (Middle Grade, Graphic Novel)
    Jeffrey is the creator of the "Star Wars Jedi Academy" series and "Darth Vader and Son." His funny, heartwarming graphic novels are a hit with kids and fans of all things galactic.

  • Recommended Ages: 12+ (Young Adult)
    Anne writes compelling historical YA fiction like "Prisoner of Night and Fog" and "The Blackbird Girls." Her novels shine a light on courageous young protagonists navigating pivotal moments in world history.

  • Recommended Ages: 4–8 (Picture Books)
    Cozbi is the author and illustrator of "Me & Mama," a Caldecott Honor book. Her warm, rich illustrations celebrate the love of family and the quiet beauty of everyday life.

  • Eric Rohmann is the author/illustrator of the Caldecott Medal-winning My Friend Rabbit and the Caldecott Honor Book Time Flies. He also illustrated Candace Fleming’s Giant Squid which received three starred reviews, as well as Honeybee, recipient of the Robert F. Sibert Medal, which the New York Times called “positively riveting.”

  • Recommended Ages: 8–12 (Middle Grade, Graphic Novel)
    Jay is the creator of "Spy Next Door" and co-creator of "The Last Comics on Earth." His high-energy illustrations and zany humor are perfect for reluctant readers.

  • Recommended Ages: 6–10 (Illustrated Novels, Picture Books)
    Tim illustrated "The Tale of Despereaux" and created "The Story of Frog Belly Rat Bone." His distinct, whimsical art style is instantly recognizable.

  • Recommended Ages: 10+ (Middle Grade, YA Graphic Memoir)
    Huda is known for her witty graphic memoirs like "Yes, I’m Hot in This" and "Huda F Are You?." Her stories share the experiences of Muslim American teens with humor and honesty.

  • Recommended Ages: 12+ (Young Adult)
    A founder of We Need Diverse Books, Lamar writes fast-paced thrillers and speculative fiction including "Fake ID" and "The Getaway."

  • Recommended Ages: 8–12 (Middle Grade)
    Russell is the author of the "Samantha Spinner" series—adventure-packed, puzzle-filled stories with humor and heart.

  • Recommended Ages: 6–10 (Poetry, Humor)
    Chris is the author of "I'm Just No Good at Rhyming," a laugh-out-loud poetry collection filled with wordplay and surprises.

  • Recommended Ages: 4–8 (Picture Books)
    Co-creator of the "Pinkalicious" series, Victoria combines whimsical stories and bright visuals that have become a childhood staple.

  • Recommended Ages: 6–10 (Nonfiction Picture Books)
    London illustrates powerful biographical picture books such as "March On!" and "Oprah: The Little Speaker," celebrating Black history and leadership.

  • Recommended Ages: 12+ (Young Adult)
    Author of "Black Wings Beating" and "Proxy," Alex writes bold speculative and dystopian fiction tackling identity, war, and loyalty.

  • Recommended Ages: 4–8 (Picture Books) Recommended Ages: 13+ (Teen Poetry & Spoken Word)
    Author of “I Grab the Mic,” a poet and educator, Malik-16 blends hip hop, performance, and mentorship to empower youth through creative expression.

  • Recommended Ages: 8–11 (Middle Grade)
    Co-author of the hilarious "Klawde: Evil Alien Warlord Cat" series, author of The 66th Rebirth of Frankie Caridi series, Johnny delivers sci-fi mischief and intergalactic laughs.

  • Recommended Ages: 8–14 (Middle Grade, YA)
    National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature and Newbery Medalist for "Merci Suárez Changes Gears," Meg explores Latinx family life and intergenerational relationships.

  • Recommended Ages: 4–8 (Picture Books) Recommended Ages: 10+ (Middle Grade, YA Graphic Memoir)
    Author-illustrator of "Don’t Touch My Hair," “Curlfriends,” and "Princess Hair," Sharee celebrates self-love, culture, and joy in vibrant illustrations.

  • Recommended Ages: 2–6 (Picture Books)
    Beloved creator of "The Family Book" and "It's Okay to Be Different," Todd uses bold colors and inclusive themes to encourage kindness and acceptance.

  • Recommended Ages: 10–14 (Middle Grade Horror)
    Author of "Shadow House" and "The Ghost of Graylock," Dan's spooky mysteries are perfect for readers who love a good scare.

  • Recommended Ages: 6–12 (Chapter Books, Middle Grade)
    Laurel is the author of many books, including "Charlie & Mouse" and "Orphan Island," blending heart, humor, and subtle magic in stories about childhood.

  • Recommended Audience: All Ages (Interactive Art Experience)

    Monty Montgomery is the visionary muralist behind the bold, colorful walls that transform the Virginia Children’s Book Festival into a living canvas. Known for his geometric patterns and vibrant palettes, Monty blends fine art with street art to create immersive spaces that celebrate creativity, community, and childhood imagination.

  • Recommended Ages: prek-6 (picture books); 6–12 (Chapter Books, Middle Grade)
    Liz Garton Scanlon is the beloved author of lyrical picture books, heartwarming stories, and middle grade novels that explore family, friendship, and the small wonders of everyday life. Her acclaimed works include All the World, a Caldecott Honor Book illustrated by Marla Frazee, as well as Thank You, Garden, Kate, Who Tamed the Wind, and The Great Good Summer. Whether writing rhythmic read-alouds for the youngest readers or thoughtful novels for upper elementary students, Liz’s stories celebrate connection, kindness, and curiosity.