154 // Sarah Hwang // Author - Toasty

Dear Asian Americans

Sarah Hwang, author of Toasty, an amazing children's book about identity and belonging, joins Jerry to share her story of growing up in New Jersey and finding her path into the creative world and becoming a children's book author. Learn more about her and her work at Sarah-Hwang.com

Meet Sarah
Sarah Hwang was born in South Korea and moved to the U.S at the age of six. Moving to a foreign country at a young age, she used drawing and creating as a way of communication and expression. Sarah was inspired to become a picture book writer and illustrator after reading books that gave her comfort and made her laugh during her childhood.

She went on to receive a BFA in illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Arts. Sarah’s goal as an illustrator and writer is to bring happiness and inspire creativity in people through her works. She loves to incorporate fun and humor in everything she creates. In addition, Sarah enjoys adding faces to just about anything, like a piece of Toast.

About Toasty
Toasty's story was inspired by my own struggles as an immigrant child wanting to fit in. During my childhood, picture books played a vital role in my life. When I saw and read books with characters that I could relate to I felt comforted and encouraged by them. It gave me the strength to persevere through my hardships. Through my work, I wanted to do the same for my readers. I want to encourage people to embrace being different. It was a tough journey getting to where I am now, but I hope that my experiences and Toasty’s story can be a source of comfort to our community.

Connect with Sarah
Web: https://www.sarah-hwang.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarah_s_hwang/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsunahhwang/

This episode of Dear Asian Americans is brought to you by the Quarter Pounder with Cheese from McDonald's. It’s QPC time. Did your mouth just water? The QPC is the burger that breaks the norms of etiquette, the burger that napkins were made for, the burger that's saucy, drippy, oozing with flavor, always cooked when you order. So the next time you want a mouthwatering burger, order the QPC from McDonald's!

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