Celebrate Children’s Book Week with author Gene Luen Yang at Main Library

In celebration of Children’s Book Week the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County is hosting author-illustrator Gene Luen Yang. A recipient of what's popularly known as the MacArthur “Genius Grant,” Yang also was the 2016-2017 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature where he called upon people to “Read Without Walls” and explore diversity through books.

Yang currently writes the graphic novel series “Secret Coders,” which teaches young readers about computer programming. Throughout Children’s Book Week (April 30–May 6), the Library is holding “Secret Coders” challenges and events at select branches, culminating in Yang’s visit 2 p.m. Sunday, May 6, at the Main Library.

Books are available for purchase and signing during the May 6 event courtesy of Joseph-Beth Booksellers. To find a “Secret Coders” Library event near you, call 513-369-6900 or visit CincinnatiLibrary.evanced.info/signup.

About Gene Luen Yang

Born and raised in California, Yang is the son of Chinese immigrants. He received a master’s degree in education from California State University, East Bay, and began teaching in San Francisco. His book, American Born Chinese, was the first graphic novel to be named a finalist for the National Book Award, and it won the Printz and Eisner awards, in 2007. His next books, companion graphic novels Boxers & Saints, also were National Book Award finalists. He has written for the Avatar: The Last Airbender and Superman comics. Yang lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.