Join TFPL in the Children’s Room for an afternoon of growth with award-winning author, Francesca Andre, where she will be reading her book, A Very Impatient Caterpillar. Patrons will have a chance to ask questions and talk with Andre about her book, as well as participate in a hands-on activity that will reflect on what it means to be yourself!

Francesca André is an award-winning author, filmmaker, photographer, and TEDx speaker who believes stories have the power to inspire confidence, spark curiosity, and bring people together.

She is the author of I Am a Phenomenal Black Boy, From Cocoon to Wings, and A Very Impatient Caterpillar, which she co-authored with her son, Gustavo Limye Torres. Her children’s books encourage young readers to embrace who they are, persevere through challenges, and discover the joy of learning.

Beyond writing, Francesca has spent more than 15 years as a visual storyteller. Her photography has appeared in publications including Forbes, Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, L’Officiel Arabia, Black Enterprise, Ebony Magazine, The New York Post, and Daily Mail. She also wrote and directed the award-winning short film Charcoal, which explores identity, self-acceptance, and resilience.

A passionate literacy advocate, Francesca partners with schools, libraries, and community organizations to inspire children through interactive story times, author visits, and creative workshops. She believes every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they read and to know that their dreams are possible.

When she’s not writing or creating, Francesca enjoys spending time with her son, exploring new ideas, and developing stories that encourage children to dream big, be kind, and never give up.