Gracie Wei #3: You're So Brave, Gracie Wei

Kristen Mei Chase is an author and essayist known for her writing about family life, relationships, and the complex realities of modern motherhood. Her books include her debut novel, A Thousand Miles to Graceland, her debut children’s picture book We Are American, Too, and her debut children’s chapter book series, Gracie Wei. Kristen’s work balances humor with emotional depth, bringing cultural nuance to her storytelling that is inspired by her own experiences as a multiracial Asian American woman. Along with writing, Kristen can be found driving around her four kids, and taking care of two dogs, one lizard, and a very loud bird in the suburbs of Philadelphia.

Author Residence: Philadelphia

Basia Tran is a Polish-Vietnamese children's book illustrator based in Jersey City, NJ, where she lives with her husband Evan, baby Naomi, and puppy Latke. With graphite and pixes she creates illustrations that share her love of lore and laughter. Other times, she explores the world, visiting family, bouldering gyms, and indulging in local cuisines and teas.

Illustrator Residence:Jersey City, NJ