Working Towards Equality (Engaging Readers, Level 3)

Sarah became an editor after many years of working as a bookseller, columnist and reviewer. She has also taught courses on writing, editing and publishing. Sarah was an editor at Orca Book Publishers for thirteen years before she (semi)-retired to become a freelance editor. She is also the author of a baker's dozen of books for young readers (board book to YA). When she's not reading, writing or editing, Sarah runs around after her three grandchildren, does yoga, (to counteract the effects of running around after small children), walks, draws and meditates.

AJ graduated from the University of Victoria's Bachelor of Microbiology program in 2019. After living in some of Canada's biggest cities, they returned to the west coast to pursue a career as a writer. In 2022, AJ published two short stories in the literary journal, Beside the Point. They have also published multiple book reviews as a contributing writer with NEXUS newspaper. AJ was awarded the Orca Book Publishers One World for All Children Award in 2022. AJ now works on early-reader books for Engage Books and (top secret!) novels for young adults. When not reading or writing they can be found hiking or wandering on the beach. AJ lives with their wonderful partner and a ridiculous, thumb-wielding cat named Rupert.

Ashley Lee began her publishing career at Simon Fraser University's Master of Publishing program. She has an Animal Care Aide certificate from Vancouver Island University, which allowed her to combine her love for animals and writing when she worked for Modern Dog and Modern Cat magazines. Ashley lives in British Columbia, Canada, where she enjoys exploring the outdoors, volunteering with children's programs, and doing arts and crafts.

Monique Polak is an award-winning children's book author from Montreal. She has written 32 books for young people. Because her mother was a concentration camp survivor, Monique has a special interest in Holocaust education. Her novel, What World is Left was inspired by her mother's life. She is also a journalist whose stories appear in newspapers across Canada.

Melody Sun graduated from Simon Fraser University's Master of Publishing program in 2020. She has always been interested in children's books and young adult novels, especially the ones written by creators from marginalized communities. Melody hopes to make the world a better place by bringing high-quality books to kids. Melody lives in Vancouver, British Columbia. In addition to reading, she loves writing, dancing, and exploring local indie bookstores.