How did a humorous military anecdote about a mysterious Dorothy evolve into an enlightening nonfiction picture book about LGBTQIA history? Author Kyle Lukhoff and illustrator Levi Hastings share the creative journey behind Are You a Friend of Dorothy? Kyle and Levi discuss the challenges and joys of representing complex identities in children's literature, emphasizing the importance of these narratives in today's world.
In this episode, we also explore the diverse paths that led Kyle and Levi to champion LGBTQIA representation through their art. From Kyle's transition from librarian to full-time writer (Kyle is a Newbery Honor winner, National Book Award finalist, and Stonewall Award winner!!!), fueled by a passion for connecting with young readers, to Levi's shift from graphic design to illustrating children's books, their stories are as captivating as the tales they create. Discover their approach to portraying historical figures like Gavin Grimm and Baron von Steuben, and learn about their recent works, including a Jewish fantasy adventure and a book about pride. Stay tuned as they share their future plans and invite you to follow their artistic endeavors as they continue to enrich the literary landscape.
(0:00:03) - Are You a Friend of Dorothy? We explore the origins of the phrase "Are You a Friend of Dorothy?" and its significance in the LGBTQIA community. Kyle and Levi share insights into their creative process and the importance of historical narratives in understanding current struggles.
(0:15:36) - Adventures in Learning with Kyle and Levi Learn more about Kyle and Levi's journeys in writing and illustration, highlighting their transitions to full-time careers in children's literature.
(0:26:42) - Recent Works and Future Plans
Pre-order Are You a Friend of Dorothy? (out 4/29/25)
Follow Kyle Lukhoff on Instagram and Facebook
Follow Levi Hastings on Instagram and Facebook
Don't miss this engaging episode as we uncover the artistry and advocacy behind Are You a Friend of Dorothy? Preorder your copy today and share it with someone who needs to hear its important message. Your support helps bring diverse stories to life and fosters understanding across communities.
Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.
Popular Podcasts
Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang
Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com