Rob Sanders is a teacher who writes and a writer who teaches. He is known for his funny and fierce fiction and nonfiction picture books and is recognized as one of the pioneers in the arena of LGBTQIA+ literary nonfiction picture books. He taught elementary school for seventeen years, retiring in 2019 to dedicate more time to writing. Rob’s nonfiction books continue to break new ground, including the first picture books about the Pride Flag, the Stonewall Uprising, a transgender Civil War soldier, a gay presidential candidate, and the first gay marriage in America. His work also continues to introduce readers to heroes of the LGBTQIA+ community—from Harvey Milk to Gilbert Baker, from Cleve Jones to Bayard Rustin to Jeanne Manford, and more. His fiction explores friendship, relationships, standing up for others, and being allies. Blood Brothers is his first middle grade novel. Rob also pays it forward. He serves as co-regional advisor for SCBWI Florida and is a frequent speaker, teacher, mentor, coach, and critiquer. Visit Rob’s website at robsanderswrites.com.
“Heartbreaking yet hopeful. An emotional portrayal of illness, discrimination, and personal growth.”
—Kirkus Reviews
"This extraordinary middle-grade novel would be a powerful book as a read aloud or to discuss in literature circles. Readers will be inspired to think about their fears and prejudices, wonder about their own actions and reactions if they were a part of the same classrooms or community as the Johnston brothers, and consider whether they would be brave enough to stand up for someone with HIV, AIDS or another disease and someone different from themselves. Although this book describes unfounded fear and hate, it also depicts agency, love, and hope." --Deanna Day, published in The University of Arizona Worlds of Words Review Volume XV, Issue 3 2023
