Join children’s book creators E.G. Alaraj, Rachel Wada, Elaine Su, Jess Willows, and Johnny Aitken for a joyful celebration of stories that help young readers connect with themselves, their communities, and one another.

Through tales of language, culture, kindness, imagination, and friendship, these creators explore how books can nurture empathy, curiosity, and belonging. Together, these works show how storytelling can open space for understanding, connection, and growth. Perfect for families, educators, and anyone who loves children’s literature.

Location: Childrens Tent, UBC Robson Square

Moderator: TBA

Readers: E.G. Alaraj & Rachel Wada (illustrator), My Language Is a Garden (Orca Book Publishers) | Elaine Su, Love, Panda (Scholastic Canada) | Johnny Aitken & Jess Willows, Two Tricksters Find Friendship (Orca Book Publishers)

About The Readers

E.G. Alaraj

E.G. Alaraj grew up in the magical place that every child knows, where ideas look like pictures drawn from crayons and sound like stories from long ago and far away. The youngest of six girls in a homeschool family, she spent her childhood with her nose in storybooks, art books, music books, notebooks and trouble—especially trouble. In fact, she thinks trouble and imagination are best friends.

Rachel Wada

Rachel Wada is a freelance illustrator based in Vancouver, BC, whose work is defined by a rich tapestry of cultural influences and technical precision. Born in Hamamatsu, Japan, and raised in Hong Kong before moving to Canada, Rachel’s multicultural upbringing serves as the cornerstone of her artistic voice. A graduate of Emily Carr University of Art + Design with a BFA in Illustration, Rachel has built a versatile portfolio spanning from literary arts, producing illustrations for award-winning children's books, editorial and commercial illustrations for global publications and brands, and public art in the form of murals transforming urban spaces. Rachel is known for her evocative use of rich color palettes, layered textures, and intricate detailing. Through her meticulous craft, Rachel continues to explore the intersection of identity and storytelling, breathing life into diverse subjects, ranging from whimsical characters and sprawling landscapes to the capturing of fleeting, intangible moments.

Elaine Su

Elaine Su is a children's author and teacher living in Vancouver. She enjoys hot tea, warm cake, and picture books that surprise her.

Johnny Aitken

Elder Johnny Aitken, he/they, is a physical actor, writer, carver, filmmaker, activist, and educator. Johnny’s mixed ancestry includes Coast Salish, Scottish and Haida. Johnny, self identifies as a 2Spirit First Nations individual. Johnny is currently co-writing a series of children’s books with his friend and colleague Jessica Willows. Their first book, Two Tricksters Find Friendship is now available in most bookstores. Johnny considers himself a cross-cultural bridge builder, a lifetime occupation he takes very seriously with a lot of humour! Johnny most enjoys collaborating with members of the Settler community, creating stories that lead us all to a place of healing.

Jess Willows

Jess Willows is passionate about teaching and learning and has followed that passion into being an educator, student and writer. She has lived her whole life on the west coast, is of settler ancestry and is currently living on the unceded territories of the SENĆOŦEN and Hul'q'umi'num speaking peoples. Jess has had a long career as a teacher in the Gulf Islands School District; most of that time spent teaching a multi-grade class (grades four to eight).

She has been involved with Professional Development (PD) for teachers throughout this time offering workshops and serving as a PD Representative and for the past 10 years as the district chair. Jess took on the role as the coordinator for the development and delivery of the Gulf Islands Centre for Ecological Learning in 2003 and has been a driving force for its evolution since that time. Jess is currently teaching in her local school and pursuing her PhD in Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies at the University of Victoria.