Alexandra Alessandri

Alexandra Alessandri, author of several books for children, including Feliz New Year, Ava Gabriela!, Isabel and Her Colores go to School, and The Enchanted Life of Valentina Mejía, as well as stories and poems for grades 2-8 through Curriculum Associates. Ms. Alessandri’s books have received numerous honors, including the Florida Book Award, International Latino Book Award, and Américas Awards Commendable Title. She is a member of the Society of Children Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

Instructor Statement: I believe we all have stories inside us, and I love guiding writers in discovering these story seeds and in nurturing them through the process of discovery, research, drafting, and revising. I believe it’s important to embrace this process and reject the myth of perfect first drafts, and in my classes, we’ll engage in the messy, beautiful, and never straightforward writing process that will result in one or more manuscripts. I aim to empower writers with the tools and skills they’ll need to succeed in their courses and in their own creative works, through the incorporation of writing prompts, assigned readings, exercises, and class discussions. 

Writing for children, especially picture books, requires precision of language, a willingness to have fun, and the ability to tackle big ideas in honest and age-appropriate ways. In my classes, we’ll analyze mentor texts; explore language, structure, character development, voice, and point of view, among other craft elements; and research what it takes to publish a children’s book in the current market. I aim to foster an inclusive classroom, where writers can feel safe to share their stories and take risks.