Kelly Starling Lyons is an American writer and children’s book author. She is also one of the founding members of the blog The Brown Bookshelf, which raises awareness of Black children’s book creators and features author and illustrator spotlights. Her titles have won or been honored by several literary awards including the Junior Library Guild selection; Coretta Scott King Award; Caldecott Medal, ASLC Notable Children’s Books and Notable Children’s Recordings; Cybils Award for Easy Readers; and Geisel Award. Ms. Starling Lyons has played a major role in recruiting creators for the 60 for 60 Campaign and is a forever friend of the CDF Freedom Schools program.