Colleen AF Venable is the author of indie bestseller Katie the Catsitter graphic novel series with Stephanie Yue (nominated for 14 state awards), as well as the National Book Award Longlisted Kiss Number 8, a graphic novel co-created with Ellen T. Crenshaw. Her other books include The Oboe Goes Boom Boom Boom with Lian Cho, The Swayze Year with Meghan Daly, Kitten Ninja with Marcie Colleen, Time Buddies with Matthew Cody, Mervin the Sloth is About to Do the Best Thing in The World with Ruth Chan, and the Guinea Pig, Pet Shop Private Eye series, also with Stephanie Yue. Colleen splits her time between Brooklyn, New York, and an old house in North Adams, Massachusetts that she’s rebuilding with friends. When she’s not writing books, she can be found working at animal rescues, rollerskating, building things, and getting very excited when she spots a frog.
“Venable’s presentation was engaging and exciting for our students. Her discussion of her childhood and early experiences in school really helped students connect with her story. They asked thoughtful questions and showed curiosity about the writing and publishing process. Finally, an assembly in which students truly have fun learning about writing! Additionally, she acted as a teacher, cheerleader, and laughing, appreciative audience member for students in her mini-comic workshop. Her coaching and genuine interest in their work inspired students to explore their own creativity and built their confidence. I can tell that she really cares about young readers finding joy in books and in their own creative endeavors. Furthermore, she graciously talked to all of the students who chased her down in the hall with more questions or books to sign. Overall, this was an excellent author visit that will be hard to top in the future.” — Wharton Borough Public Schools, 2025
