Lisa Rowe Fraustino

Lisa Rowe Fraustino is a Visiting Associate Professor at Hollins University where she serves as Chair of the Graduate Programs in Children's Literature, a position she held as program director from 2018-2023. With over thirty years of experience teaching both critical and creative courses in children's and young adult literature, she has established herself as a prominent scholar and author in the field.

Dr. Fraustino earned her Ph.D. from Binghamton University, an M.A. from the University of Scranton, and a B.A. from the University of Maine at Orono. Her academic journey began in rural Maine where she wrote her first story at age three, foreshadowing her future career in children's literature.

As a scholar, Fraustino specializes in children's literature criticism, with particular expertise in anthropomorphism in picture books, representations of mothers in children's literature, and historical fiction for young readers. Her research bridges creative writing and literary analysis, examining how critical theory can inform children's book creation. She has published extensively on narrative techniques, character development, and the cultural significance of children's literature.

Her scholarly publications reveal a consistent focus on the intersection of literary theory and children's book creation, with particular attention to character representation, narrative perspective, and the historical context of children's literature. Recent works show increasing engagement with critical theory applications to children's literature and examinations of classic texts through contemporary lenses.

• 2010 Milkweed Prize for Children's Literature (for The Hole in the Wall)
• 2016 ChLA Article Award (for 'The Rights and Wrongs of Anthropomorphism in Picture Books')
• 2018 ChLA Edited Book Award (for Mothers in Children's and Young Adult Literature)
• American Library Association Notable Children's Books Award (for The Hickory Chair)

As an award-winning teacher and past president of the Children's Literature Association, Fraustino has mentored countless students in both creative and scholarly pursuits. Her editorial work spans anthologies, journals, chapter books, and picture books, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing new voices in children's literature. She has directed graduate programs that offer certificates in Children's Book Illustration and M.F.A. degrees in Children's Literature and Children's Book Writing and Illustrating.

Fraustino maintains an active presence in the children's literature community through her blog, editorial work for 'Children's Literature' journal, and professional consultations for writers. Her ongoing engagement with both the creative and academic aspects of children's literature makes her a distinctive voice in the field.