Guest post for the Brown Bookshelf by syndicated cartoonist, author and illustrator, Jerry Craft I published my first book back in 1997. Since then I have written and / or illustrated more than a dozen others. I think the reason why I’ve dedicated my life to get kids to read is because I went through most of my [ Read the full article… ]
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The Back Story with Katheryn Russell-Brown
It’s not often that a debut picture book earns three starred reviews. But that’s just what Katheryn Russell-Brown won for her brand new release, Little Melba and Her Big Trombone (Lee & Low, 2014). A law professor by trade, Katheryn was called to write for kids after she became a mom. Here’s her inspiring story [ Read the full article… ]
Nominations Now Open for 28 Days Later!
Happy Labor Day! As today is the day our nation has set aside for celebrating the myriad social and economic contributions of our American labor force (which all too often tends to go unlauded the rest of the year), it is more than fitting that we’ve chosen today to open up nominations for 28 Days Later-2015! 28 Days [ Read the full article… ]
Our Mailbox
Fortunately, we receive books! The following are upcoming or recently published books written by African American authors, or authors of any background, but feature diverse main characters. If Kids Ran the World by Leo & Diane Dillon Scholastic, Blue Sky Press, 2014 From the publisher: Two-time Caldecott Medalists Leo and Diane Dillon show children playfully creating [ Read the full article… ]
Ballerina Girl
This year, two beautiful picture books about black ballerinas hope to dance their way into children’s hearts and hands. The latest is a gorgeous forthcoming debut by American Ballet Theater soloist Misty Copeland titled Firebird, the name of the classic role she was the first black woman to star in. Published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons and illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist [ Read the full article… ]
Making Our Own Market: DuEwa Frazier
We are honoured to welcome DuEwa Frazier to the Brown Bookshelf today. Poet, founder of Lit Noire Publishing, author of DEANNE IN THE MIDDLE, and much, much more — DuEwa is a true wonder woman. Grab your notebook and a glass of iced tea, lemonade, or just some cool, clear water…and prepare to be inspired. [ Read the full article… ]
Celebrating a Giant: Walter Dean Myers
I’m so grateful I had the chance to meet Walter Dean Myers, a giant in so many ways. Before seeing him face to face, I met the award-winning author through his words – Brown Angels, Blues Journey, Looking Like Me. His writing embraced me, affirmed me, gave me that I-am-you-you-are-me nod that brothers and sisters exchange around the world. “Why do [ Read the full article… ]
Walter Dean Myers–More Than an Outstanding Writer
By Wade Hudson I was stunned when I heard that Walter Dean Myers had made his transition. During the 25 plus years that my wife Cheryl and I have been involved in publishing, it seemed that Walter was always “there.” We started Just Us Books, Inc. in 1988 to publish more books for children [ Read the full article… ]