Jason Reynolds is the author of two critically acclaimed books. My Name Is Jason. Mine Too: Our Story. Our Way. (HarperCollins, 2009), an autobiographical collaboration co-written with his friend and artist, Jason Douglas Griffin, was published in 2009 and received two starred reviews. His debut novel, When I Was The Greatest, was published in early [ Read the full article… ]
28 Days
Day 3: Octavia Spencer
Thanks to Minny, the bold and loveable character played by Octavia Spencer in The Help, I’m now suspicious of all homemade chocolate pies! Many of us know Ms. Spencer as an amazing actress in movies stemming from A Time to Kill, to her unforgettable role in The Help. But many of you may not be [ Read the full article… ]
Day 2: Colin Bootman
His Journey When I graduated college in 1990, I thought I wanted to paint book covers and record jackets. I also thought that I might even create editorials. In truth, I was confused and didn’t really know what I wanted to do. What I did know was that I wanted to create art and make [ Read the full article… ]
DAY 1: Ilyasah Shabazz
“Experiencing my parents’ transitions has afforded me understanding of human mortality and purpose. I recognize and appreciate that each of our lives will end, and that the meaningful accomplishments during our lifetimes do not include acquiring power, land, or gold. But rather, the only achievements that will survive eternity and will honor our memories are humble [ Read the full article… ]
DAY28: JAIME REED
‘There’s no place like home’ could not be truer for author, Jaime Reed. After studying art at Virginia Commonwealth, and living three soul-searching years in New York City, Jaime returned to the place where she spent her childhood in Virginia, and rekindled her love for writing. Now, as the amazing author of the series, The [ Read the full article… ]
Day 27: Becky Birtha
Becky Birtha has written two picture books for children–two historical, culturally rich, family-inspired picture books that would be valuable additions to any classroom or personal library. As this year’s campaign approaches its end, we are happy to include the work of this talented picture book author. Presenting the captivating words of Day 27’s honoree, we [ Read the full article… ]
Day 26: Chudney Ross
Business Owner. TV Host. Model. Chudney Ross has many amazing accomplishments. But she reveals on Social Butterfly that her proudest one is getting her book deal. Chudney, the youngest daughter of Diana Ross, made her kidlit debut last year with middle-grade novel, Lone Bean. HarperCollins calls it: “. . . an entertaining read about spunky Bean Gibson [ Read the full article… ]
DAY 25: Willie Perdomo
Willie may have been in the right place at the right time, but without his brilliant talent to accompany his imaginative ideas, we wouldn’t have the pleasure of reading his work. We are proud to celebrate Willie Perdomo on Day 25! The Journey The path to publishing children’s lit was without a doubt a matter [ Read the full article… ]