Jacqueline Woodson

Jacqueline Woodson, an award-winning author known for her memoir 'Brown Girl Dreaming,' reflects on her transformative journey with words. She discusses her early struggles with reading, driven by a passion for storytelling and the support of her family. Woodson emphasizes the importance of diverse representation in children’s literature and shares insights on conveying complex emotions in narratives. She also explores her familial roots through poetry and emphasizes the need for supportive spaces for BIPOC artists, merging personal history with broader cultural themes.

In this insightful discussion, Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE, and Liz Kleinrock, an educator specializing in tough topics, tackle how to reshape education for future generations. They dive into the challenges of teaching race and inequality while fostering critical thinking. Thomas Curran, a social psychologist, examines the rise of perfectionism among youth due to social media pressures, and Jacqueline Woodson shares her passion for empowering diverse voices through storytelling. Together, they explore the importance of resilience and self-compassion in modern education.

Jacqueline Woodson, celebrated author known for her lyrical storytelling, shares her journey of reading slowly and its profound impact on her writing. She reflects on how savoring words deepens understanding and creates meaningful connections with stories. Woodson emphasizes the importance of slowing down in our fast-paced world, highlighting how traditional storytelling honors heritage and amplifies marginalized voices. Ultimately, she invites listeners to appreciate literature as a way to feel less alone and to spark change.