Behind-the-scenes Early Sketches from THE SUBLIME MS. STACKS!

Did you know that OurShelves members . . . ?

  • Receive special videos, activities and resources that open conversation around the expert-curated books we send -- check out some examples below; and
  • Advocate for existing diverse books during a time of unprecedented book bans and advocate for the many more diverse books still needed -- check out ways to get involved below!
 

    We're so excited to share behind-the-scenes access to Dani Jones's illustrations for THE SUBLIME MS. STACKS!

    From illustrator, Dani Jones: "In order to make sure the color and lighting was consistent through the book and fit with the mood of each scene, I made a quick color study with all the pages laid out together in front of me."

    From illustrator, Dani Jones: "These are quick small drawings I made when coming up for ideas for the cover of the book."
    From illustrator, Dani Jones: "This page is an example of my early brainstorming. I looked at reference of drag queens and freely drew different characters to try to figure out how I wanted Ms. Stacks and her sisters to look."
     
    From illustrator, Dani Jones: "Several character design ideas for Mr. Stephen."
     
    From illustrator, Dani Jones: "Step-by-step process of one of the book spreads, featuring the rough thumbnail sketch, refined sketch, and final color."
     
     

     

    Want to enjoy a story time of THE SUBLIME MS. STACKS? Here's a read-aloud video from author Robb Pearlman! 

     

    Engage your children in taking action!

    Unprecedented book bans that disproportionally target LGBTQ+, racially, ethnically and religiously diverse, and other under-represented characters, authors, and illustrators are on the rise. (Learn more from PEN America and Get Ready, Stay Ready, a community action toolkit.) 

    Here are 5 concrete actions you and your children can take to proactively support diverse books and their creators:

    1. Buy and borrow diverse books like THE SUBLIME MS. STACKS;
    2. Share this book, these behind-the-scene sketches, and this video within your family, classrooms, library, and beyond;
    3. Send a note to Robb Pearlman and Dani Jones to share why their book matters to you;
    4. Follow your favorite authors and illustrators of diverse books, like Robb Pearlman (on Instagram and his website) and Dani Jones (on Instagram and her website);
    5. Leave a short review for THE SUBLIME MS. STACKS and other favorite diverse books on Goodreads and Amazon.
    Visit our Advocacy page for more ways to take action!
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