At Panel 7 of The RV Book Fair 2025, hosts Lucia Matuonto and Pat Backley welcomed audiences to a magical session titled “The Worlds We Make.” The panel explored how authors and artists craft immersive, emotional, and imaginative worlds through storytelling and illustration.
The session opened with a warm introduction by Cristina Matta, setting the stage for an engaging conversation about creativity, storytelling, and the power of imagination.
The discussion featured three extraordinary creatives:
Erica Sherlock, author of Through Quick and Quinn, a novel exploring grief, identity, trauma, and spiritual healing.
Steven Joseph, author of Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz!, a whimsical and hilarious intergalactic adventure.
Andy Case, a multitalented illustrator and musician whose vibrant artwork brings stories vividly to life.
Exploring Their Worlds
Erica Sherlock shared how Through Quick and Quinn tackles complex emotions with courage and honesty. Her characters navigate guilt, self-discovery, and spiritual searching, inviting readers to reflect deeply on their own experiences. Erica discussed how the story emerged from personal insight and the desire to confront difficult truths through fiction.
Steven Joseph took attendees on a humorous rollercoaster with his Snoodles universe. From poodles in alien prisons to bizarre inventions like Cloakadoodle Swoodle Cars, Steven explained how he balances chaos and comedy with heartfelt themes, creating adventures that are as meaningful as they are entertaining.
Andy Case gave an inside look at his illustration process, showing how he transforms manuscripts into dynamic visual experiences. He shared how he balances his artistic voice with the author’s vision, ensuring that every image enhances the story while conveying emotion and energy.
The Power of Storytelling
All three creatives reflected on the central question of the panel: What lasting feeling or experience do you hope readers carry from the worlds you create? From emotional resonance to imaginative wonder, each guest highlighted the transformative power of storytelling.
Looking Ahead
The panel also offered glimpses into future projects. Erica teased potential expansions of Quick and Quinn’s journey, Steven hinted at new intergalactic adventures, and Andy shared excitement about upcoming illustration work that continues to bring stories to life.
Closing Thoughts
Lucia and Pat concluded the session by celebrating the creativity and dedication of today’s speakers, reminding audiences that whether through words or visuals, every story offers a chance to explore new worlds, spark imagination, and inspire readers everywhere.
For those who missed it, this discussion—and all the panelists—are featured in the December issue of The Relatable Voice Magazine, offering a deeper dive into the creative minds shaping our favorite fictional worlds.
Keep exploring, keep reading, and most of all—keep making worlds of your own.
Find out more at www.relatable-media.com/the-rv-book-fair
Erica: ericasherlock.com
Steven: www.stevenjosephauthor.com
Andy: www.andycaseillustration.com