The Importance of Children’s Books with Simran Jeet Singh & Jasmin Rubero | SXSW EDU 2025 Rewind

The easiest way to see humanity in others is through a story. A great story can affect both the mind and heart of the listener, and bring about lasting transformation that otherwise may never come. When it comes to shaping the future of humanity, the simplest path is to share diverse stories that reflect the lived experiences of underrepresented communities in a way that resonates both personally and universally. In other words, we need children’s books.

Simran Jeet Singh, author, professor, and theologian, discussed the importance of representation in children’s books and how they shape a child’s worldview with senior art director at Kokila Books, Jasmin Rubero. Their Keynote traversed Singh’s background and how it helped guide his journey as an author, while also digging deeper into the specifics of what choices go into creating a children’s book.

Being Invisible is Deadly

As Simran Jeet Singh recounted his experiences during the aftermath of 9/11, he emphasized that being invisible, erased, and unknown to others can be a matter of life and death. Under persecution, he found that education through the vehicle of storytelling would be the way that he made himself and his community seen. He explained that stories build empathy, connection, and care, and have the power to change people’s hearts and minds.

The Importance of a Picture

Singh invited Jasmin Rubero to the stage to bring in her expertise in the children’s publishing world to the conversation. From bringing a story to life with a picture, to finding the right artist to capture those moments, they discussed how illustrations can be impactful through authentic representation.

Rewriting the Narrative

Simran Jeet Singh argued that the best way to amend false narratives and highlight those that have been erased is through a story.

“Picture books are an opportunity to correct history, to correct depictions of people so that children are not poisoned by what is fed in mass media.”

Simran Jeet Singh
Assistant Professor, Union Theological Seminary

You Belong To The World

Singh observed that he has found the world to be consumptive to the point of overconsumption. How much does a person have to own to feel that they have enough? That it starts at the very basics of owning land. Does it make sense to own land, or does the land kind of own us? He asserted, “nothing belongs to you, you belong to the world.”

Watch the full Keynote here to learn more about the ever-important world of children’s storytelling:

Watch SXSW EDU 2025 On-Demand Content

Take a look back at SXSW EDU 2025 and relive exciting Keynotes, Featured Sessions, and more, now available to watch on our official YouTube channel, plus listen to hundreds of audio recordings in the schedule.

Stay tuned for more information about registration and participation opportunities for SXSW EDU 2026 coming later this summer.

Photo by Shannon Johnston