Author: Don Tate

Two years ago on social networks, librarian Elizabeth Bird suggested that someone write a biography on Jerry Lawson—the self-taught engineer known as the “father of modern video gaming.” Back in the 70s, Lawson successfully lead the team of engineers who developed the first interchangeable video game cartridge (recently featured on Google). I hadn’t heard of [ Read the full article… ]

I live in Austin, Texas; my family is spread out all over the country. Due to Covid-19, it’s been two long years since we’ve been able to gather. I miss family reunion barbecues and soul food Sundays. I miss family Kwanzaa celebrations observed during the week following Christmas. And I miss the feasts my mother-in-law [ Read the full article… ]

Connections: Editors & BIPOC Creators Charlesbridge editors are offering free, 30-minute sessions to participants who self-identify as Black, Indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC) to discuss their manuscripts. During these sessions, the editor will offer specific constructive feedback on manuscripts, cover letters, and the submissions process, as well as guidance about the publishing industry if [ Read the full article… ]

Happy new year! On this first day of 2021, and the seventh and last day of Kwanzaa, we honor our faith (Imani)—a belief with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle. Faith has been the heartbeat of the African American community, our history. [ Read the full article… ]

Last year, I had the pleasure of serving on the jury for the Ezra Jack Keats Book Awards. Throughout the year, hundreds of books sent by publishers, piled on my doorsteps. Sometimes, I’d let the books build up in my studio and then take an afternoon just to savor new voices. Other times, I’d tear [ Read the full article… ]