Story Behind My Book

This book is about celebrating the incredible beauty found in every shade of humanity, even the rich and vibrant hues of black. I felt a deep calling to write this book because I believe every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. Growing up, I struggled to find characters who looked like me in the books I encountered when I was a kid. This lack of representation left me feeling unseen and undervalued. 

This book was born to fill a void, to provide a mirror for children of color to see themselves, and a window for all children to learn about and celebrate diversity. It's a tool, a powerful one, that aims to empower young readers to embrace their identities, cultivate self-love and self-acceptance, and appreciate the incredible beauty found in our differences. By sharing this book with the world, I hope to ignite conversations about representation, inclusion, and the vital role of diverse voices in children's literature.

My five children grew up in a predominantly white neighborhood and attended primarily white schools. I witnessed firsthand the impact of this environment on their psyche. Despite my constant reassurances of their beauty, all they could see was their difference. I yearned for them to see their color as beautiful, to see that their Black Is beautiful. I realized that how we perceive color influences our self-image and our relationships with others. Teaching children to love themselves in the skin they are in is teaching them how to love others. There is nothing wrong with observing differences; it is only wrong when we place value on those differences negatively. We are all unique, no matter the color. 

"Black Is..." was born from a desire to create a space where children of color could see themselves represented in the pages of a book. Inspired by my own experiences and fueled by a passion for inclusivity, I embarked on a journey to craft a story that celebrates the beauty of melanin-rich skin and the richness of diverse cultures.   "Black is..." invites young readers to explore the kaleidoscope of the color black in people, animals, and nature, which make up our world. It will inspire them to celebrate the beauty of being exactly who they are. 

Children will discover the power and importance of self-acceptance, as well as the richness that comes from embracing diversity. This book is not just about representation; it's about empowerment. It's about instilling confidence in children of color and teaching all children to appreciate the beauty in others. With vibrant illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, "Black Is..." is a testament to the strength and resilience found within every child, regardless of the color of their skin. 

"Black Is..." is a love letter to every child, reminding them of their inherent worth and the magic that comes from being true to themselves.