Judy Allen Dodson has a highly-developed skill for research that serves as the historically rooted foundation for the stories she creates. As a griot of children’s literature in the Black diaspora, this joyful librarian, archivist, and writer holds a wealth of knowledge that she uses to weave stories for young readers. Join us to read Judy’s journey in her own words.
28 Days Year: 2024
2008 · 2009 · 2010 · 2011 · 2012 · 2013 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016 · 2017 · 2018 · 2019 · 2020 · 2021 · 2022 · 2023 · 2024
Day 5: Sharee Miller
Our Day 5 honoree is a both an illustrator and author, known for her fresh and cheerful characters. Sharee loves creating picture books, graphic novels, and illustrations that depict black joy. We are proud to feature Sharee Miller as part of this year’s 28 Days Later Celebration. SHAREE MILLER is the bestselling illustrator and author of [ Read the full article… ]
Day 4: Nikki Shannon Smith
Nikki Shannon Smith is an author, fourth grade teacher, and advocate for literacy, educational equity and social justice. She believes words wield power. She is the 28 Days Later Day 4 honoree. NIKKI SHANNON SMITH is an educator, presenter, and the award-winning author of 20 published and forthcoming books. She writes everything from board books [ Read the full article… ]
Day 3: Andrea J. Loney
Andrea J. Loney’s books celebrate diversity, joy, and kindness. Writing both fiction and nonfiction, Andrea’s books delight, empower, and comfort kids of all ages. We’re delighted that you will get to know more about our multitalented Day 3 honoree. ANDREA J. LONEY wrote the award-winning picture books DOUBLE BASS BLUES (Caldecott Honor), TAKE A PICTURE [ Read the full article… ]
Day 2: Lisa Stringfellow
Lisa Stringfellow seemed to burst onto the children’s literature scene with her debut middle grade novel, A COMB OF WISHES. As we honor Lisa on Day 2 of this year’s 28 Days Later Celebration, you’ll see that there is always hard work and a story…well, behind the story. LISA STRINGFELLOW writes middle grade fiction and has [ Read the full article… ]
Day 1: Tonya Duncan Ellis
If Tonya Duncan Ellis looks familiar to you, it may be that you’ve seen her on Instagram—interviewing other creatives, offering writing tips, and sharing her joy and positivity. If you’re not yet familiar with Tonya, you’ll enjoy getting to know her as our featured honoree for Day 1 of this year’s 28 Days Later Celebration. [ Read the full article… ]
Announcing the 17th Class of 28 Days Later Honorees
Happy 2024, Friends! We were on hiatus most of last year. Happy to be back celebrating outstanding Black children’s book creators. This time, we’re doing something new. We’re collaborating with our Amplify Black Stories fellows to salute their work and give you an update on the members of The Brown Bookshelf team. Not familiar with Amplify [ Read the full article… ]