Marissa Moss: Empowering Young Minds Through Storytelling and Illustration

In this episode, prolific author and illustrator Marissa Moss discusses her diverse body of work, which spans multiple genres including picture books, middle grade novels, and graphic novels including both fiction and nonfiction. Most of her books focus on heroic women who are underrepresented in children’s literature. Moss shares her journey from aspiring illustrator to accomplished writer, describing how she began her career, her love for history, and the intricate research process she undertakes for her books. She delves into her popular series such as ‘Amelia’s Notebook,’ ‘Max Disaster’ and ‘Mira’s Diary,’ and highlights the significance of her works that center around pioneering women in history like Lise Meitner and Elizebeth Smith Friedman. She also discusses her fun and important book highlighting the importance of math and science education for girls in ‘Talia’s Codebook for Mathletes.’ Moss provides advice for aspiring writers and illustrators. The conversation concludes with Moss’s plans for future projects and her passion for fostering creativity and engagement in children.