I just came across this post from author Miranda Paul about writing across boundaries, such as race, and the need for diversity not just in kids’ book characters but authors and illustrators, too. It’s from 2014 but still very relevant and worth reading.

Here’s an excerpt:

Not every story is mine to tell.

I know that, and I respect that.

That doesn’t mean I only write stories that originate my Midwest hometown, about characters who look like me, grew up like me, talk like me, etc. In fact, those of you who know what I write is far more diverse. But what I write is also based upon experience, research, passion, and personal connection.