Finding Pearls: How Books Empower Diverse Voices with Joanna Ho

My Perfect Failure

MPF Discussion with Joanna Ho

Finding Pearls: How Books Empower Diverse Voices with Joanna Ho

Have you ever noticed a bookshelf full of stories, yet none reflecting your own experience? That's exactly what fired up our guest, Joanna Ho, and led her on a mission to create a world of inclusive stories for all children.

In this episode of My Perfect Failure, we dive deep with Joanna, author of the powerful new book, "We Who Produce Pearls". Get ready for a conversation that will inspire you to:

About Joanna

Joanna Ho is the award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of many children's books including Eyes that Kiss in the Corners; Eyes that Speak to the Stars; Eyes that Weave the World's Wonders, Say My Name, and Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma, recipient of an Ezra Jack Keats Honor. Her debut young adult novel, The Silence that Binds Us, received the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature, Young Adult Honor. She earned her Master’s in Educational Leadership at the Principal's Leadership Institute at the University of California, Berkeley and has been a classroom teacher, program designer and high school administrator. Her passion for equity in books and education is matched only by her love of homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoors adventures, and dance parties with her kids.

• Embrace your purpose: Joanna ignites the spark within, reminding us that we all have a role to play in creating a more equitable world.
• Champion diversity in education: Discover why Joanna believes classrooms are the battleground for change, and how books can be the ultimate weapon.
• Find your voice, find your power: Joanna's journey is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. Learn how to use your voice to empower yourself and connect with others.

We'll also chat about:

• The importance of giving yourself permission to explore and discover new passions (because it's never too late to write your own story!)
• Why Joanna feels a deep connection to the art form of picture books
• The impact of Joanna's first book on Asian women and the inspiration behind "We Who Produce Pearls"
• The fascinating research journey that unearthed hidden depths of Asian history
• How "We Who Produce Pearls" celebrates the resilience of the Asian community, turning oppression into strength and beauty
• A powerhouse collaboration with artist and activist Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya, who brings the book to life with stunning illustrations

Links to Joanna

Order: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/we-who-produce-pearls-joanna-ho/7587844?ean=9781338846652

Visit Joanna’s Website: www.joannahowrites.com

Subscribe to: KidLit Happy Hour: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kidlit-happy-hour/id1701505462

Joanna's message is clear: we all have a pearl inside us, waiting to be discovered. This episode is your invitation to find yours and amplify it for the world!

Plus, Joanna shares the 3 inspirational people she'd invite to a dream dinner party! You won't want to miss it!