so many things!
Signing in Cambridge, MA
Speaking at Cambridge library
Signs colored by students in Chicago
Excited Chicago school kids
Chicago middle schoolers
A favorite drawing request: unicorn
A lovely welcome in Austin
Happy readers in Takoma Park, MD
Takoma Park, MD library
One of my favorite photos – a young girl reading PASHMINA. I think my heart will always swell at the sight of someone reading a book I made… it’s been my lifelong dream!
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I’m home from my mini tour, which I realized midway wasn’t very mini. I visited eight cities in the span of a few weeks and had the wonderful opportunity to speak to school kids in each town. It was equal parts exhausting and exhilarating. I met kids, teachers, librarians and booksellers who were excited about books, art and comics. I feel incredibly grateful for each opportunity. The road is hard – and especially so when due to illness I had to cancel a few signings – but it was worth the wear and tear to meet readers.
More than that though, I felt love. Whether it was family and friends who hosted me (since I paid for a good portion of the tour from my own funds, I called in a lot of favors), folks who came to signings, kids who told me their rooms were full of my art (!!), or simply conversations I had in cars and planes where we shared our growing concern for our country – I felt a thread of love and understanding. THAT is what motivates me to keep going, keep hustling and keep creating.
On that note I am excited to share that my second graphic novel, JUKEBOX has been announced! I am writing it with my hubbahubba, Nick Giordano. There’s an exclusive interview and a little art on syfy!
I also was notified that PASHMINA was reviewed by the New York Times! The review will appear this Sunday November 12th! An excerpt: “Chanani masterfully turns the complex immigrant narrative into a magical and captivating work of art.”
And lastly, I must share my upcoming events!
I will be in Santa Clara tomorrow, November 8th, at Illusive Comics for a signing.
Next weekend, November 16-19th, I will be at the Miami Book Fair (which is bigger than San Diego Comicon – which is slightly terrifying).
The weekend of Thanksgiving, November 25-26th, I will be participating in my ONLY holiday show with SF Etsy at Pier 35.
I hope to see you at one of these events! And thank you to everyone who’s purchased, read, shared, and reviewed PASHMINA. Your support on this journey allows me to keep going <3