Illustration

2 articles

A friendly, translucent ghost peeking from behind a children's book, illustrating Jon Klassen's approach to non-scary ghosts.

Jon Klassen explores ghosts in children's stories

In a recent 'Publisher's Weekly' interview, acclaimed author-illustrator Jon Klassen revealed he designs his ghost characters not to be scary, but 'more like a quiet, misunderstood neighbor.

Karim El-Sayed·June 19, 2026

Joana Avillez as a child looking out at the South Street Seaport waterfront, evoking memories of her unique childhood.

The Reading Room

Joana Avillez revisits New York waterfront childhood memories

Before it became a bustling tourist destination, the South Street Seaport was so empty and smelled distinctly of fish that Joana Avillez's parents chose to live there specifically for the large, avail

Karim El-Sayed·June 1, 2026