Costantia Manoli
Children's Book Author & Illustrator

Praise for Costantia's books
"[A] beautifully told and illustrated story that expresses, with sensitivity and inspired use of figurative language, a child’s attempt to fit with the dominant culture... will resonate with many readers and inspire empathy in others."
Kirkus Reviews (starred review for 'Tomatoes in My Lunchbox')
"A great narrative nonfiction purchase on a topic that is rarely discussed"
School Library Journal (starred review for 'The Fig Tree')
"[S]ensitively articulated... [with] lushly wrought illustrations"
Publishers Weekly (starred review for 'Tomatoes in My Lunchbox')
"An excellent choice for back to school and “new kid” picture book collections. This will resonate with many readers. Highly recommended."
School Library Journal (starred review for 'Tomatoes in My Lunchbox')
The Fig Tree
(Roaring Brook Press/Macmillan 2025)
In The Fig Tree, war separates two sides of an island, and a solitary tree brings together two children across the divide, in this touching picture book about peace, community, and forgiveness—written by award-winning author Costantia Manoli and illustrated by Leah Giles.
Purchase/request now from your local indie bookstore, or, order through the links below

Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2022
Tomatoes in My Lunchbox
(Roaring Brook Press/Macmillan 2022)
A moving picture book from a debut author about the first day of school, layered with themes about the immigrant experience and the universal experience of feeling out of place.
Purchase/request now from your local indie bookstore, or, order through the links below