Jael Richardson facts for kids
Jael Ealey Richardson is a Canadian writer and broadcaster. She is well-known for her book The Stone Thrower, which tells the story of her father, Chuck Ealey. He was a famous quarterback in the Canadian Football League. The book was first published for adults in 2012 and then as a special illustrated children's book in 2015.
Her Journey as a Writer
Jael Ealey Richardson earned a special degree called a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from the University of Guelph. She helped start a yearly event in Brampton, Ontario, called the Festival of Literary Diversity. This festival celebrates different kinds of books and authors. She has also worked as a writer in residence for the Toronto District School Board, helping students with their writing.
Her first novel, Gutter Child, came out in 2021. This book was chosen as a finalist for the Amazon Canada First Novel Award. It was also part of a new program from the Writers' Trust of Canada called WT Amplified Voices. This program helps promote books written by authors who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC). In 2022, Gutter Child was also nominated for the Forest of Reading's White Pine Award, which is a popular award for young adult books.
Sharing Stories on Air
Jael Ealey Richardson often shares her thoughts on books as a reviewer for CBC Radio One's arts show, Q. She has also been a guest host for Q. In 2017 and 2018, she co-hosted the live broadcast of the Scotiabank Giller Prize galas with Shelagh Rogers. The Giller Prize is one of Canada's most important awards for English-language fiction.
Recognized for Her Work
Jael Ealey Richardson's novel Gutter Child has received several important recognitions:
- In 2021, it was a finalist for the Amazon Canada First Novel Award.
- In 2022, it was nominated for the White Pine Award.
Audible, a company that provides audiobooks, has also featured Jael Ealey Richardson in their series of Canadian Audible Originals. This helps to promote Canadian writers and their stories.
