Author Glenda Armand and illustrator Floyd Cooper will talk about their differing roles and processes in creating a picture book that shares an important moment in history. This book tells the story of an African American man who refused to give up on his dream and overcame prejudice to become an acclaimed Shakespearean actor in the early 1800s.

Ira's Shakespeare Dream is Glenda Armand's second book, and is the story of Ira Aldridge, an African American born during the time of slavery, who dreams of becoming a Shakespearean actor. In this book, Glenda combines her love for Shakespeare with her passion for writing about those who overcome overwhelming odds to do great things.

Floyd Cooper has published more than 100 children's books and more than 2000 book-cover illustrations. He has established himself as a master craftsman of children’s literature and illustration, and has received numerous awards and praise for his work. The illustrative technique Floyd uses is called oil wash on board. He paints an illustration board with oil paint, and then erases the paint to make a picture.