Kristen Mei Chase is known for her writing about family life, relationships, and modern motherhood. Her work has been featured in The Washington Post, NBCNews.com and more. She is the co-founder of the Cool Mom Picks Network, which includes the award-winning podcast, SPAWNED, which reaches millions of moms every month. Kristen is also a frequent guest on various television news shows like NBC's Today Show, CNBC, HLN, and CNN. Kristen's books include her debut novel, A Thousand Miles to Graceland, her forthcoming debut children's picture book We Are American, Too, and her debut children's chapter book series, Gracie Wei. 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. 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.
""Gracie Wei’s single-minded pursuit to please her family and the pressure she puts on herself will resonate with young readers, as will the affirming depictions of the lasting effects of loving support."" —Publishers Weekly ""The story....ultimately delivers a reassuring reminder for young readers: being special isn’t about winning but about how we treat others."" —Booklist ""Thoughtfully explores ambition, compassion, and the rewards of internal growth."" —Kirkus Reviews ""Gracie’s wit and slight snark soften the bluntness with kid-authentic humor that will surely garner some giggles....The short sentences, heavy dialogue, and cartoony black-and-white pencil art put this somewhere between Princess Posey and Alvin Ho for newly solo readers."" —The Bulletin