Michael Sampson (he/him/his)

Michael Sampson is a professor of literacy at St. John’s University and an award-winning author known for picture books such as “Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3,” “Armadillo Antics,” and “Rainbow Bear.” A Fulbright Scholar, he co-wrote “The Story of Ukraine: An Anthem of Glory and Freedom” and the upcoming “JoJo the Tornado Dog: A Tale of Rescue, Courage, and Family.” He continues to promote literacy worldwide through his teaching and writing.

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Awards: Parenting Magazine Book of the Year, Philadelphia Museum of Art's "Please Touch“ Award, CBC Teacher's Favorite Award, IBPA Ben Franklin Award for Picture Books, IPPY Award for Picture Books, Moonbeam Children's Book Award, and more!

Michael Sampson Shares "Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3"

Michael Sampson reads aloud his picturebook, "Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3" about climbing an apple tree and counting to 100.

Story Blanket Tent (Seats 12)  
Sat, Mar 14, 12:45 pm - 1:15 pm
Children

Panelist: Michael Sampson
Moderator: BAAC Will Fill 1

Animal Tales of Rescue, Courage & Connection

These compelling tales of animals at risk place animals in situations of risk and courage. Katherine Applegate introduces Ruby, the youngest elephant in an animal sanctuary, while Jasmine Warga shares a friendship between a cheetah and a rescue dog and Michael Sampson tells the tale of a dog who loses his family and journeys to find his place.

Education Room 353 (Seats 92, Wheelchair accessible)  
Sat, Mar 14, 2:30 pm - 3:25 pm
Children
Signing area: Signing Area - Children (following presentation)  

Panelists: Katherine Applegate, Michael Sampson, Jasmine Warga
Moderator: Hilary Taber
Sponsors: Session made possible courtesy of Helios Education Foundation, Joseph and Michelle Millstone

Books:

Jojo the Tornado Dog

A Tale of Rescue, Courage, and Family (Based on a True Story)
Children
Brown Books Publishing Group
April 2026
ISBN 9781612547220
112 pages
Buy now

Armadillo Antics

Children
Brown Books Kids
January 2022
ISBN 9781612545479
32 pages
Buy now