Why I Became a Founding Member of The Indie Book Fair

I became a founding member of The Indie Book Fair because I believe something simple and powerful: great books can come from anywhere. Readers and bookstores shouldn’t gatekeep indie authors, AND independent books, especially children’s books, need to be evaluated by the same standards of quality as traditionally published ones.

Indie authors work incredibly hard to create books that are beautifully written, professionally edited, thoughtfully illustrated, and ready for classrooms and families. But too often, indie books are overlooked before anyone even opens them. That kind of gatekeeping limits access, narrows representation, and keeps diverse voices out of the hands of the readers who need them most.

The Indie Book Fair was created to change that. You can learn more at https://theindiebookfair.com/.

As a founding member, I want to help build a space where:

• Indie authors are visible and valued • Bookstores and readers can confidently discover high‑quality indie books • Children’s books are judged by craft, not by publishing path • Diverse voices and lived experiences can flourish • Community replaces gatekeeping

I’ve seen firsthand how indie books can open conversations, support classrooms, and help children feel seen. I want families, educators, and librarians to know that when they pick up an indie book, they’re getting something made with care, intention, and heart.

The Indie Book Fair is more than an event. It’s a commitment to access, equity, and excellence. I’m proud to help build a space where indie authors can stand shoulder‑to‑shoulder with traditionally published creators—and where readers can discover stories that might never have reached them otherwise.

If you believe in opening doors instead of closing them, I hope you’ll join us at The Indie Book Fair. Together, we can make the book world bigger, kinder, and more inclusive—one story at a time.