Janelle Harper is a Bronx native who proudly carries her New York accent wherever she goes. As a product and resident of the Bronx, her artistic work is inspired by city life and the diverse experiences of the African Diaspora. Janelle comes from a long line of educators and has spent nearly two decades teaching dance in New York City public schools. As a children’s author, Janelle is passionate about representation. She hopes to create stories that make children fall more in love with themselves. She is drawn to stories that are lyrical, multigenerational, or showcase non-traditional storytelling structures. https://www.janelleharperauthor.com

Awards

My Block Looks Like has received starred reviews from Horn Book, Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly and a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection. 2024 AAMBC (African Americans on the Move Book Club) Literary Award nominee for Children Book of the Year. 2024 Black KidLit Award for Best Read Aloud Runner Up.

3 Fun Facts

1. Unicorns are my favorite animal.
2. I’ve traveled to five continents. Australia and Antarctica are on my bucket list.
3. I don’t know how to ride a bike.