Dashka Slater

Slater investigates the intersections of humor and hope through her writing, crafting narratives that resonate with both children and adults. Her novel, "The Wishing Box", was heralded by the Los Angeles Times as one of the best books of its year, celebrated for its impish and hopeful tone. Meanwhile, Slater's talent extends beyond adult fiction into the realm of children's literature, where her acclaimed works such as "Baby Shoes", "Firefighters in the Dark", "The Sea Serpent and Me", and "Dangerously Ever After" reflect her ability to enchant young audiences with whimsy and imagination. This duality in her writing showcases her versatile storytelling approach, aiming to evoke laughter and inspiration across different age groups.\n\nHer method involves intertwining engaging narratives with vivid imagery, a technique that invites readers to explore deeper themes while enjoying the story's surface charm. This skill is evident in her upcoming picture books, expected to further captivate young minds. Beyond fiction, Slater's contribution to journalism with pieces in publications like Newsweek and The New York Times Magazine reveals her prowess in non-fiction narrative, particularly with her anticipated Young Adult book, "The 57 Bus". This project demonstrates her commitment to shedding light on real-world issues, aiming to foster empathy and understanding in her readers.\n\nReaders of Slater’s books benefit from her unique blend of humor and thoughtful reflection, which encourages both critical thinking and emotional connection. Her ability to balance lightheartedness with depth makes her work appealing not only to casual readers but also to educators and parents seeking meaningful stories for children. Moreover, as a recipient of a Creative Writing Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts, Slater continues to enrich the literary landscape with her diverse offerings. Her ongoing work promises to further explore the human experience, cementing her place as a significant voice in both children's literature and adult fiction.