This interview originally appeared in the May/June 2025 Horn Book Magazine as part of the Publishers’ Previews: Diverse Books, an advertising supplement that allows participating publishers a chance to each highlight a book from its current list. They choose the books; we ask the questions.

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For author Antwan Eady and illustrator London Ladd, The Gathering Table is where we come together — physically and in spirit — with those who matter most to us.

Photo: Kareem McMichael.

1. Antwan, do you have a gathering table in your own home?

Yes, but it wasn’t until this moment that I’ve considered it as such. The gathering table from my childhood, built by my late father, served as a hub where traditions were passed on, lessons were learned, and my family’s cooking nourished our souls. Today, the table in my home, where I sometimes write, does the same. It’s where I serve guests. It’s where laughs are had and bonds are strengthened.

Photo: Malcolm Taylor.

2. London, you?

I remember sitting with my mother at our kitchen table during childhood to share meals. As a parent now, I strive to continue this tradition with my adult daughter.

3. Antwan, if you got some great news today, how would you celebrate tomorrow?

Readers will find my celebration in The Gathering Table: lowcountry boil. Having lowcountry boil with a side of great news makes that boil even more delicious.

4. London, such an assortment of delicious green colors! What does that tell us?

Antwan suggested places I could explore to see, feel, smell, and hear the environment while researching The Gathering Table. At the Pin Point ­Heritage Museum in Savannah, Georgia, the warmth and vibrancy of the beautiful, lush greens surrounding the area deeply affected me, and I wanted to convey that feeling.

5. Antwan, what contribution to a gathering does your family count on from you?

It isn’t about what you bring. It’s about getting there when you can. I have a few family members to thank for keeping this going. And now that I’m the author of our family, they count on me to tell their stories too.

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