Come to this exciting talk from the New York State Writers Institute featuring Tami Charles, bestselling author of children’s books, who will discuss her YA novel, Muted (2021), about a 17-year-old member of an R&B girl band — inspired in part by the author’s own experiences as a member of a girl band that opened for Boyz II Men.

The novel exposes exploitation in the music industry — and what it takes for a young person to fight back. The author recorded four original songs for the Audible version of Muted.

Her many prize-winning children’s books include We Are Here (2023) and All Because You Matter (2020). Her newest, Together, United (2025), presents an inspirational message of unity and courage for children in difficult times.

Free and open to the public

Earlier the same day, she will visit with students at elementary schools in Albany.

Major support and funding provided by the Carl E. Touhey Foundation.