More About CK Malone (They/Them):
Languages: English
CK has been an ELA teacher for over 20 years and an intervention teacher for two years. CK is super proud of being a Bigender (technically born Intersex) Neurodiverse kidlit author.
When they aren't writing, you'll find them speaking, teaching, cooking, singing, learning the language of their grandmother (Cherokee), playing music, and shooting hoops with students.
They are the author of A COSTUME FOR CHARLY and POPI'S ALL SOULS SONG.
You can find CK online at:
What CK is doing this summer…
CK will be working on our new pilot program,
BEYOND PB RISING STARS: AN EXTENDED EXPERIENCE.
We are thrilled to introduce this brand-new initiative as part of our picture book mentorship program! This pilot program is designed to deepen and enrich the mentorship journey by pairing past mentees with dedicated mentors for a more extended collaboration.
Through this initiative, we aim to explore the benefits of a longer mentorship experience while gaining valuable insights that will guide the future development of our program. Participants will have the unique opportunity to build upon the skills they’ve already acquired as mentees in this program, fostering a creative space for more growth and guidance.
CK’s involvement in this program will help us understand how an extended 6-month mentorship can enhance learning outcomes and support aspiring picture book creators along their journeys. We are truly grateful to CK for piloting this program!
Be sure to follow along on this exciting journey to elevate our mentorship program— because every Rising Star deserves the chance to shine brighter! *CK’s Mentee will be announced at the May 15th announcement!
A Note From CK:
“It is a privilege to help pilot Beyond PB Rising Stars: An Extended Experience. There are so many events happening once people sign with an agent. I am fortunate enough to help my mentee to navigate contracts, publicity, awards, etc. I am thrilled to be an advocate for my mentee beyond finding an agent. I look forward to being someone who is always fighting to ensure my mentee has the best publishing experience possible. At the end of the day, I hope this experience is invaluable not only for my mentee but also for the writing community. Writing is an ability, helping is an honor.”
CK’s Picture Books
A COSTUME FOR CHARLY, written by CK Malone, illustrated by Alejandra Barajas
Popi’s All Souls Song, written by CK Malone, illustrated by Shelly Swann
DONUTS FOR EVERYBODY created by Jerrold Connors, Poems contributed by multiple authors including CK Malone
Mentee applications are closed. Thanks for applying!
Click below to register for our Mentee Announcement (on Zoom) on May 15, 2025 at 8:00pm Eastern Time!