creative by: artfulsoul
Since ancient civilization, the black rose is a symbol of new beginnings, new birth from the past and the present, here the Black Authors for children's books
Together We Rise: 8 Black authors for Children's Books tell us why they write.
Together We Rise is an initiative which recognizes Black authors for children's books in their commitment to writing for children and young adults. These award winning Black authors use poems, songs, games, and stories to remember their cultural history and document their memories of childhood.
As we champion Black authors for children's books, the 2021 edition of Together We rise is dedicated to children from toddlers to tweens.
As one rises all of us rise. Together We Rise is the brainchild of Eleanor Wint.
Featuring 8 Award-winning Black authors for children's books, Amina Blackwood Meeks, Ekiuwa Aire, Ayana Francis, Juleus Ghunta, Marjuan Canady, Mary Cuffy, Ann G. Harris and Eleanor Wint.
Send us your comments by an email at contact@eawpublications.com
Giving thanks to all our author contributors.
We acknowledge the thoughtful contributions of our editor: Dreamright Editing Services & our banner designer: instagram.com/artfulsoulpk .
Author Bio & Interviews
As an annual initiative, we will record the thoughts, and considerations of Black authors for children's books The information will be shared as author interviews which showcase their childhood influences and motivators.
We look forward to your comments.
Amina Blackwood Meeks
Holds a PhD in Cultural Studies from The University of the West Indies, Mona. An award-winning Black author, actress and storyteller, she is the founder and artistic director of Ntukuma, The Storytelling Foundation of Jamaica, and of Ananse SoundSplash, an annual storytelling conference and festival. Amina successfully petitioned the Governor General to establish Jamaica Day, which is held on the last Friday in February, and National Storytelling Day, which is held on November 20 each year. She currently serves as College Orator at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts and is the author of the picture book That’s A Good Idea.
Contact Details
Website: aminablackwoodmeeks.com
Email: jamaicantukuma@gmail.com
Facebook: Amina Blackwood Meeks
Twitter: @ntukumaja
LinkedIn: Amina Blackwood Meeks
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Thats-Good-Idea-Aminas-Children/dp/9768266112/
Interview
What makes you write for this awesome audience?
I write for and work with children because of my deep conviction that children cannot become what they have not been taught. My writings are also intended for the children in all of us because too often, in the quest to be ‘grown up’ we often forget the joy of being amazed at all that is wonderful around us and to greet each experience with that delightful question every child asks: 'why?' I write to keep us connected to that joy so that we may encourage our children to be joyful. I write for children because as the world turns and unfolds, I am mindful that Frederick Douglas is correct: 'It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.'
As a storyteller for more than thirty years, children have always been my primary focus. As a trained Early Childhood Education specialist, I delight in experiencing the immediate impact of my work on children.
Did your life experiences influence in anyway the selection of this group?
This is perhaps influenced by my own childhood. My Godfather, who doted on me, was a teacher. He took me to school before I could walk and sat me on his desk as he taught. I was given ’ starring roles in all the concerts at Sunday School and was treated with love and patience during the rehearsals. We were all rewarded with picnics and trips to the beach, travelling in the cars of the Sunday School teachers after each show. My primary school teachers were of the “old-fashioned” type. The ones who would sit you on their laps, wipe your tears and express concern about your welfare outside of the book. I believe at some level these have all operated to influence my interactions with children.
Book Title: That’s A Good Idea
Johnny is never shy of asking questions or exploring his connections to the motherland, Africa. He finds the perfect answers in his Grandpa’s story of Great Spirit and Mongoose, and their quest to create the last animal on earth. Incorporating catchy rhymes, Jamaican folklore and that all-purpose Jamaican coffee, Johnny follows Grandpa and Mongoose along a journey of discovery. Great Spirit and Mongoose, Grandpa and Johnny are all content with the final creation that celebrates our heritage and moves Great Spirit to declare, “Black people pretty, sah!”
Ekiuwa Aire
Has an award-winning children's book by a black authors. She was born and raised in Benin City, Edo, Nigeria. She is passionate about sharing positive stories on African history with children. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Ontario, Canada.
Contact Details
Instagram: @our_ancestories
Facebook: @our.ancestoriess
Website: www.our-ancestories.com/
Visit www.our-ancestories.com for ideas on how to introduce African history to kids, and for free printables and comprehensive lesson plans.
Interview
What makes you write for this awesome audience?
I noticed the lack of diversity in the children’s book industry. Specifically regarding children’s books about African history. While there are a few books on black history, there was literally nothing on African history. This was where the idea for my book was born. My books are written with a goal to introduce all kids to African legends in a way that is easy to understand and educational yet entertaining. The books are also empowering and motivational to kids, encouraging them to either follow their dreams or to believe in themselves.
When did you begin to write for them and what was your motivation?
I began writing when I became a mother and could find the books I needed to teach my kids on their history. The idea of filling this gap and possibly helping other like-minded moms spurred me on. My motivation was to write culturally accurate books as well as books that will be accepted, understood, and enjoyed by other cultures and not just the African community
Did your life experiences influence in anyway the selection of this group?
Nothing that affected me personally. However, visibility of the biases present in North America got me to thinking that there may be room to raise kids to celebrate differences. I also believe that history provides kids with a sense of identity. Learning about history provides children with insight into their own culture and community and allows them to understand how our own society is shaped by history.
Book Title: Njinga of Ndongo and Matamba
Njinga of Ndongo and Matamba is the true story of a girl who had a difficult birth but went on to become the Queen of two ancient African kingdoms.
Revered for her wisdom, courage, and strength, Njinga became a dominant political figure in Angola in the 1600s. This richly illustrated children’s book tells her story and the challenges she faced from the day she was born. Njinga must overcome the jealousy of her brother, the loss of her father, and the encroachment of the Portuguese at the dawn of a time of great trial for the African continent.
Ann G. Harris
Resident in Raleigh, North Carolina, Ann Gales Harris holds an undergraduate degree in Multidisciplinary Studies (English and Religion), and a Master of Arts Degree in Religious Studies. Ann also pursued extensive coursework in writing and editing and writing for children and teenagers. She enjoys reading, research, writing and collecting vintage books. She is determined to publish an award-winning book by a black author.
Contact Details
Email: anngharris1@gmail.com
LinkedIn: Ann G. Harris
Website: http://www.personalwritingconsultants.com/
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Pinella-Sprucella.../dp/B08R26JRGT
Interview
How have your life experiences shaped your decision to write for children?
When I was a little girl, I enjoyed hot summer afternoons sitting with my grandmother on the front porch. It was my favorite pastime. Amid her potted plants, rose bushes, and beautiful antique chairs, we relished the quietness of those days. At that time, I did not understand that being still was an integral part of being a good writer. Thus, a quiet spirit is essential for concentration.
I never asked her what she was writing. She often had a Bible, a writing tablet, and many pencils beside her. I had paper and pencils as well. I cannot recall what I wrote. Sometimes I took notes from books and copied short stories. I remember feeling a sense of calm when the pencil glided across the paper.
My love of reading undergirds my passion for writing. A writer must enjoy reading the works of others. There was a library right around the corner from our house, and I spent many hours in that setting. It was a wonderful feeling to write, read, and enjoy words. With my sisters and brothers, and close friends, we visited the library at least three times a week. I was amazed at all of the creative ideas in children’s books. I read so many of them, and I remember reading one particular book at least ten times. I decided that one day I would be a writer of children’s books. Of course, it did not happen right away. I had to prepare myself for the task by education, awareness, and journaling. In this way, I always kept a writing regime in my life. Each time I had an idea, I jotted it down for future reference.
Interestingly, a writer of children’s books must have a unique imagination and see situations in a different light. I was always creative and envisioned scenarios with trees, animals, and vegetables. I had quite a portfolio of stories and did not do anything with them for a long time. One day, I saw a story on television with the same scenario as one of mine. I knew it was time to get busy and get my works published.
I hope my children’s stories will be enjoyable treasures to children worldwide.
Book Title: Pinella Sprucella: The little Christmas Tree
Christmas is near, and Pinella has an extraordinary wish.
She is the smallest tree in the group, and she is worried that she will spend Christmas alone.
She is too tiny, and a family will never choose her to spend Christmas with them. However, an unexpected surprise leads her to a holiday miracle and much more.
Juleus Ghunta
Juleus Ghunta is a Chevening Scholar, award-winning poet, and an advocate in the Caribbean’s adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) movement. His poems and essays on ACEs have appeared in 30+ journals across 15 countries. His picture book Tata and the Big Bad Bull was published by CaribbeanReads in 2018 and he is the co-editor of the December 2019 and March 2020 issues of Interviewing the Caribbean Journal, which are focused on children’s literature and ACEs in the Caribbean. His second book, Rohan Bullkin and the Shadows is forthcoming from CaribbeanReads in November 2021 as a potential award winning book by Black authors.
Contact Details
Email: juleusghunta@gmail.com
Twitter: @ghunta100
Instagram: @juleusghunta
Facebook: Juleus Ghunta
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Tata-Big-Bull-Juleus-Ghunta-ebook/dp/B07DFDNVXT
Interview
When did you begin writing, and why do you write for Children?
I started writing seriously about six years ago. First and foremost, I write to and for my childhood self; for the little boy in me who struggled to read and who at times felt lonely and afraid. I write to give him access to the books he wished he had, books about adversity and resilience, trauma and triumph. Writing helps me to reimagine his experiences and to create greater possibilities for my adult life. Writing has been an indispensable outlet for my grief – an act of survival, like breathing, the way I keep my head above the flood of traumatic memories and defy those who demand I bear my burdens alone.
My books are also for others, of course, but particularly for children who need to be reminded of the light in their struggle and the possibility of even brighter light at the end of it.
How have your life experiences shaped your decision to write for children?
I felt unseen for much of my childhood, which was shaped by years of abuse and neglect. When I finally learned to read at age twelve, I searched local libraries for stories that I could identify with, stories with protagonists who had encountered and overcome similar adversities. I failed to find such stories, so I vowed to write my own. I write to shield children from harm. If we constantly fail at this, what morality can we claim?
Book Title: Tata and the Big Bad Bull
Tata loves going to school, but the only way he can get there is through Pellken Pasture, which is fiercely guarded by the Big Bad Bull. Can Tata figure out how to get past the angry bull and make it to school on time? Told in rhyme, Tata and the Big Bad Bull is fun story about determination and overcoming fear with compassion.
Mary Cuffy
Mary Cuffy is an Early Childhood Curriculum Programme Facilitator and a Storyteller whose work focuses on literacy and music in early childhood. She is a champion of Black authors to support. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Care Education (ECCE), and a Masters of Education in Literacy Instructions from the University of the West Indies. Her portfolio of work includes creative writing using prose combined with illustrations to help children learn about their culture in a fun and enjoyable way. Her experience as a cultural worker is indisputable. In addition, as an excellent fiction writer, she incorporates cultural artefacts in her work.
Contact Details
Email: Edmary.cuffy@yahoo.com
Facebook: Mary Cuffy
Instagram: @marycuffy
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Dara-Ms-Mae-Oil-Down-ebook/dp/B08DZSZRF9
Interview
What makes you write for this awesome audience?
I have been writing all my life. Writing is a magical medium. It is a vehicle for communication, connection and creativity. It is an opportunity to learn and grow, have fun and sharpen yoursenses.
After completing my Masters, I promised myself to write stories more so, for children at the early childhood level. I noticed the absence of culturally relevant literature for children at the early childhood level. Providing children with culturally appropriate reading materials is a powerful way to engage and motivate children to read and contribute to overall reading growth and achievement. In fact, the research is clear: Students who read culturally relevant books read better and read more.
When did you begin to write for them and what was your motivation?
I want to inspire children to read, write, create, imagine and dream. This adds to my tag line 'We become experts by doing.'
There’s a writer in all of us because there’s language in each of us. Have we not all shared the same spark of joy in first learning to write our very own name? Writing is self-discovery and self-expression. We begin with a spark.
To inspire a child to write we must reignite that very first wonder and delight, and we must hold the spark steadfast with the intention of kindling a long-lasting love of language within the child.
Psychology tells us that to inspire another, we must first be inspired. Inspiration is contagious! When you discover the power and process of writing, of how words create language, communication, and stories across generations, then you can always tap into inspiration, and the ideas you pass along will be born from a place of wonder and delight.
Did your life experiences influence in anyway, the selection of this group?
I had a wonderful childhood, I grew up in a large family, and I was the last of eleven children. We lived on a large farm in Borough of Arima in Trinidad. This sparked my interest and love for animals and insects. As a child I spoke to every living thing on the farm (I think my dad wanted me to be veterinarian). One major thing that stood out for me in my childhood was the care my dad would give to his animals. He would walk through the farm each morning before leaving for work to ensure that the animals were in the best of health. He taught us to respect all living things. Music and animals are two of my loves so, putting the two elements together was the birth of my two books.
Book Title: Dara, Ms. Mae & The Oil Down
A Children’s Book about our Caribbean Culture: Dara, Ms. Mae & The Oil Down. Dara, Ms. Mae and the Oil Down is a treasure you don’t want your child to miss. Ages 7 – 12 yrs. old.
Like many other fruits and plants, the breadfruit tree was transplanted in Trinidad and Tobago a long time ago. Today, it is a treasured part of Caribbean cuisine. Dara, Ms. Mae and the Oil Down introduces children to the history of the breadfruit and one of the most delicious ways it is used in Caribbean cooking.
Join Dara and her siblings on a journey of discovery as they learn about how breadfruit came to Trinidad and how to cook it. Follow the recipe, sing the breadfruit song, and experience tradition in a delightful way. This story presents respectful interaction between the young and old, and shares a snippet of the beautiful language of Patois to those who may never have heard it.
Marjuan Canady
Marjuan Canady is an award-winning Black Caribbean-American author, artist, entrepreneur, educator, and literacy advocate. A native Washingtonian, her work spans theater, film, television, children’s media, and literature. Her original work has been seen at The John F. Kennedy Center, Sesame Street, The Smithsonian, The Lincoln Center for Performing Arts, Miami Book Fair, Ryan Seacrest Foundation, and the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute. She is the CEO/ Author and Creative Director of the children's media brand, Callaloo Kids. She is the Founder of her production company Sepia Works and non-profit, Canady Foundation for the Arts. She is a proud member of the Producers Guild of America.
Contact Details
Email: info@marjuancanady.com
Twitter: @marjuancanady
Instagram: @callalookidsofficial
Websites: www.marjuancanady.com & www.callalookids.com
Interview
What makes you write for this awesome audience?
I write for children and youth because I know firsthand the power of storytelling and the ability the arts have to change lives. Stories saved my life and gave me a sense of purpose as a young person, which is what continues to motivate me to write for young people. I tell stories that are authentic to the African Diaspora experience from a child’s perspective. When a child sees themselves in a story, their spiritual souls are deeply impacted, giving them greater self-confidence. I write stories with children of color, 1st, and 2nd generation immigrant youth, at the center of the narrative because for so long our stories have been deemed invisible and not celebrated. When a child can see it, it’s more likely that they believe they can be it.
When did you begin to write for them and what was your motivation?
I began writing for youth in 2012. I began writing plays for young audiences with my most popular play, 'Callaloo: A Jazz Folktale', premiering in Washington, DC at the Ellington Theatre. It was also workshopped at the Lincoln Theatre in New York City. In 2013, I adapted this play into a children’s book, which became very successful and it inspired me to develop it into an entire book series and media brand. What motivated me originally to create this work was that I wanted to share my own story as Trinidadian-American youth and my family connections to our food and folklore culture. What continues to motivate me to do this work are the children that feel connected, seen, and inspired by the characters and stories. When I see black and brown children, Caribbean and African-American youth excited to read and engage in my work, it reminds me of how impactful this work really is and that I must stay the course to keep telling my own stories.
Did your life experiences influence in anyway, the selection of this group?
My life influences my writing and creativity. I draw inspiration from my history, community, and experiences as a Caribbean-American woman. I am always creating from the personal, as I believe that is what drives any artist, the world that they know and how they see it. Every life experience and interaction is seen in my work.
Book Title: Callaloo Kids
Callaloo Kids written by Marjuan Canady is an education-based children’s media brand that promotes cultural literacy and social awareness through books, animation, live performance, digital content, and arts education tools. Callaloo Kids books spotlight African Diaspora folklore and food traditions of Trinidad and Tobago, Puerto Rico, and the South Carolina Gullahs.
Ayana Francis
Ayana Francis is a Trinidadian-born Canadian. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work, and enjoys exploring Toronto on her bike. She likes to travel and has visited three continents. She is the latest addition to books by Black authors 2021
Contact Details
Email: travellingfeetbooks@gmail.com
Instagram: @travellingfeetbooks
Interview
What makes you write for this awesome audience?
Six Years ago, after my nephew Idris was born, my entire life changed. As I watched Idris grow and discover the world around him, I learned just how important it is that Idris, a Black boy, sees himself in books. This is howABC Where are We? The West Indies! was born. This is my first attempt at writing for children who rarely see themselves in the stories they read.
I have always loved reading and writing therapeutic stories. At the beginning of the pandemic, I began to withdraw from the world and turned to books for therapy. Quarantine and isolation had been difficult, and I often found myself thinking about travelling again. That’s when it hit me –‘travelling starts with the mind’. I could easily help Idris, and others, see the world – all one has to do is use one’s imagination.
Oftentimes, children in marginalised communities do not explore beyond their environments . It is unfortunate that economic hardships, lack of educational opportunities and other systemic challenges get in the way of children exploring the world. My book provides an avenue for marginalised children to develop a desire to explore the world around them.
Did your life experiences influence in anyway, the selection of this group?
As a former community development worker, I know the importance of building healthy environments for our children and that literacy is an integral aspect of that. I want to do my part to support my communities now. When we support our communities, we support ourselves. It takes a village, and I’m following in the footsteps of the trailblazers who came before me.
Book Title: ABC Where are We? The West Indies!
ABC Where Are We? The West Indies uses the alphabet to guide young readers through Caribbean islands– from Jamaica to Bonaire, Monserrat to Trinidad and Tobago.
Dr. Eleanor Wint
Dr Eleanor Wint is a retired Professor of Social work, a social activist, a grandmother, and a recognized Black author of children's books. Her work has taken her across Canada, the USA, Africa and the Caribbean. She loves to share her knowledge about how to build and grow self-confidence in both children and parents. A recipient of the UNIA Award of Excellence in Education, her most recent book is the third edition of Marcus Teaches Us. The second edition received a recommendation and a Gold Seal Award from the US Review of Books. Her latest publication “Tweet Tweet & Friends” is a 5 part series on managing emotions, available on Amazon.
Contact Details
Twitter: @itskids31
Facebook: itsKids31
Email: contact@eawpublications.com
Website: www.eawpublications.com/
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1777561027
Interview
Why do you write for the children?
From my early days in academia I chose to focus on community and family, and within that complex, the child. My studies and research helped me to realise that children go through many developmental stages. I saw for myself what an important role stories, books and other stimulation materials played in that process. Even before they can read, we read books to them. And by doing this we also learn as adults.
When did you begin writing for children?
Recently. I started writing for parents and caregivers. I felt children were their responsibility. Only to realise that children want to speak their own words. Self-identity and self-esteem are the central tenets of all my writing. So, I began by talking about the black philosopher, Marcus Garvey, in a way they could understand. Now I have moved into the story-book world where children can express how they feel without apology. So, I am now writing with them. A new experience.
Do your life experiences influence in any way your selection of this group?
I have lived in the USA, the Caribbean, Africa and spent time in Europe. My children always traveled with me. This reality helped to define a major contact point in every culture i.e. families and children. As a child myself, my parents were unusual in that they allowed me and my siblings to do what we wanted to do. That’s how it seems to me looking back. I guess it was because there was no confusion as to what was right or wrong, Godly or ungodly. This made me find a balance between what is real in people's lives and what the theorists like to say.
I have learnt so much about children that I have to share. So from childhood I continue to read a lot, dream a lot and now I help other children to do the same.
Book Title: Family Fun Day
Family Fun Day makes it easy to overcome any feelings of anxiety and fear. Together with her friends, they swim, fly and have a great time as friends are forever in this Penguin World. As her self confidence grows she can say….Broken Wing Bye Bye!! I can Fly.
But she finds out that friends never die. They still swim, fly and have a great time. Friends are forever in this Penguin World, especially with the friends and family of Tweet Tweet. As her self confidence grows….
Shop My Books
Check out some of the books that Eleanor Wint has written.
