Jennifer Babb is a retired middle/high-school librarian and geography teacher from Edmond, OK. She has a degree in history from the University of Oklahoma and a M. Ed. in Library Science from the University of Central Oklahoma. Jennifer now owns and operates the small business Jennifer’s Potpourri, an eclectic collection of embroidered, sewn, baked, and other made goods. Living with lupus, her hobbies include sewing, quilting, embroidery, gardening, canning, baking, hoarding craft supplies, and all of the Zelda games. Jennifer’s greatest claim is that she can turn any middle schooler into a reader by matching them with the right book. Her personal-favorite series are the Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan and Honor Harrington by David Webber. She also loves a good alternative history like those of S.M. Sterling and Eric Flint.
Throughout history, powerful institutions have tried to suppress books and ideas they considered dangerous. From religious authorities to modern governments, censorship has taken many forms, including book burnings and bans. This panel examines the fears and motivations behind attempts to control the spread of information. How can societies defend open exchange of ideas while still confronting harmful content?
Comics and graphic novels can be powerful tools for engaging young readers. Their visual storytelling and accessible format often resonate with neurodivergent students. This panel explores ways educators can use comics to support learning, curiosity, and creative thinking. Learn strategies for building educational programs that use graphic storytelling to reach a wider range of students.
Comics have become a powerful medium for a wide range of voices and experiences. Writers face the challenge of creating characters who seem authentic while avoiding stereotypes or shallow representation. This panel explores research, collaboration, and storytelling techniques that support thoughtful and inclusive writing. How can creators tell diverse stories that resonate with readers?
Frank Herbert’s Dune universe explores far more than desert planets and giant sandworms. The series weaves religion, politics, ecology, genetics, and questions about what it means to be human. This panel takes a closer look at the themes and ideas that make the Duniverse one of the most influential works of science fiction. Join us as we dig into the mythology and meaning behind the spice.
In this lighthearted panel, panelists and the audience will ponder the absence of mothers for many of our favorite Disney princesses and characters. And talk about the mothers who do appear, and why they're often villains.