Today I welcome Joana Pastro whose wonderful, recently released picture book speaks to my heart, LILY BELLE, A DAMSEL NOT IN DISTRESS. I love books with an empowering message, and when even the title made me smile … but wait until you see what’s inside. She has generously offered a copy to one lucky winner. Comment on the post to be entered in the raffle.
What were you like at the age of your target audience?
My nickname as a toddler was bionic baby, because I was always on the go. I was extremely active, and my mom says I talked non-stop! I spent most of my time with my imagination and playing make believe, but I remember also having quieter more introspective moments. I’ve always loved art and crafts, loved going to museums and watching musicals. My mom considered musicals the best sitter for me! When I was 8, I watched a week long Fred Astaire marathon on TV.
What inspires you?
It’s such a cliché to say everything, but it’s true! But now that I’m thinking about this, I can say that most of my stories are inspired by either my childhood, like BISA’S CARNAVAL, or by art/history, like LILLYBELLE, A DAMSEL NOT IN DISTRESS.
What’s the one thing you hope your readers take away from your books?
I want girls to see themselves in LillyBelle, and understand the power they have, and I really hope all children will be inspired to stand up for themselves and for others. The best feedback I got so far was a video from a three-year-old. When asked why she liked LillyBelle, she said, “Because she can do anything!” It was the cutest thing!
What can we look forward to next?
I have a couple of projects out on submission, which is always exciting. I’m working on several projects, including board books, a chapter book, and a novel. I’m keeping myself busy!
My second book, BISA’S CARNAVAL, comes out in November 2nd, 2021 with Orchard Books. It’s set during Carnaval in Brazil, and it follows a little girl and her Bisa (great-grandmother) as they prepare for the parade. It’s all about family, love and celebrating what matters most.
Joana can be reached at: Twitter: @jopastro Instagram: @joanapastro Website: http://www.joanapastro.com
Laura Roettiger Books 
I’ve been wanting to read this fun book. I love the feedback from the three-year-old. Thank you for the interview to get to know this author.
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Danielle, thanks for reading! This is a book I wish I had been able to read to my children when they were younger. Good luck in the giveaway!
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This book looks wonderful! Thanks for sharing. Definitely useable in a classroom!
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Thanks for sharing, this book looks wonderful! I would absolutely use it in my classroom.
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Thanks for reading, Kirsten. It’s a wonderful book. Good luck in the giveaway.
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“Bionic Baby” sounds like a story idea too!
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Yes! It does, Joana! Please write a bionic baby story!
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I love this theme! Girl power! I love teaching my Kinders they can do ANYTHING!
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Yes! It’s important for both boys and girls to learn all of them can do ANYTHING! Thanks for reading. Check out the other giveaway posts too, so many wonderful books for the classroom. Good luck in the raffle.
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I would love to share this story with my students! I’m sure lots of them could relate to Lilly Belle!
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Thanks for reading! Yes, I’ll bet they can. Good luck in the giveaway.
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This is such a wonderful book. Thanks for sharing!
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Yes! This one is such an amazing book! I think it’s a perfect compliment to Aliana. Thanks for reading.
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My little ones and I love LillyBelle!
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Yay, thanks for reading, Sarah! Good luck in the giveaway.
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