Designers Joanne Meiyi Chan and Mark Rogero imagined a magazine for kids ages 6-12 that concentrated on visual storytelling, DIY activities, and creative collaboration with up and coming writers and illustrators that are new to the playground of children's publishing. Chan and Rogero's vision debuted in 2016 to critical acclaim from School Library Journal, Library Journal, and award winning children's author Cece Bell to name a few. Their most recent issue ("The Symbols Issue"), features an interview with kawaii-style (anime drawing of cute figures that also feature a dark side) artist Yuko Higuchi; a short conversation about Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers; a stunning comic by the issue's cover artist Marina Muun, a celebration of modern architecture; an ongoing series that imagines famous children's authors as children (this issue features Dr. Suess), a beautifully illustrated story on The Quiltmakers of Gee's Bend; gorgeous drawings and informative text in a brief history of the color yellow ochre; a recipe for vegetable curry; DIY cursive letters; and book recommendations, art supply reviews, and music playlists. The writing is challenging but accessible, making this a read that is most beneficial with a grown up alongside to give some of the authors, artists, and histories context.
Each issue features (from the website):
Subscription: 3 issues/year
Cost: $48
Age range: creative kids ages 6-12
- the creative original work of dozens of contributors (artists, storytellers, performers, chefs, makers)
- quality DIY activities for kids
- music & book reviews
- a recipe, coloring pages, and drawing and writing activities
- high-quality, recycled paper stock & soy-based inks
Subscription: 3 issues/year
Cost: $48
Age range: creative kids ages 6-12