As a child of immigrants, Rita Feutl didn’t learn English until she started school. That’s also where she discovered books and the wonder of stories. She wrote her first one when she was seven. Rita is available for in-person Taleblazers bookings and is open to travel.
Bethany is a storyteller who brings her background as an actor, French teacher and world traveler to her performances. Bethany is available for both in-person and online sessions and is open to travel.
Natasha Deen writes for kids, teens and adults and believes the world is changed one story at a time. As a Guyanese-Canadian whose family immigrated to Canada, she’s seen first-hand how stories have the power to shape the world. Natasha is an active member of YABS but not touring regularly. She is open to special requests on a case-by-case basis.
Storyteller, librarian and former teacher, Gail de Vos has been an active promoter of the oral tradition of literature in Alberta for over three decades. Gail is a non-touring member of YABS.
Lorna Bennett is an Edmonton-based artist who has worked as a designer, writer, illustrator, and animator. She is currently a non-touring member and is not available for bookings through YABS.
Edmonton-based Fred Curatolo is considered one of Alberta's foremost cartoonists. Fred is available for in-person sessions within 100km of Edmonton and for virtual sessions outside of that radius.
A vagabond of writing genres, Edmonton author Marty Chan has written for theatre, television, radio, and kids publishing. For 2025-26, Marty is offering both virtual and in-person sessions. Availability for in-person may be limited.
Calgary author Bill Bunn has published three YA novels, a picture book, and a collection of essays. Bill is offering in-person sessions.
Kate A. Boorman is an Edmonton-based author who was born in Nepal and raised in Rimbey, Alberta. Kate has participated as a guest and presenter at a variety of festivals and conferences in Western Canada, has been artist-in-residence within EPSB, and has been a member of YABS since 2015.
