This heartwarming tale follows the journey of a young black boy who discovers the transformative power of a smile. Through various experiences in his life, he learns how a simple smile can bring joy and positivity to any situation. This story emphasizes the importance of spreading kindness and positivity and how our presence and demeanor can impact the people and environments we interact with.

To be aware is to be alive. Sucker Duckin by definition is when you disassociate yourself from any situation, relationship, or affiliation that limits the growth of life, self, and purpose.

The word S.U.C.K.E.R. is an acronym that stands for Someone Ultimately Conspiring to Kill Everything Righteous. You can't defend your well-being if you're unaware of the threat. The word D.U.C.K.I.N. stands for Demonstrating an Understanding of Critical Knowledge Immune to Nothingness.

You see many of us are smart and talented but the people we surround ourselves with do not always bring that out of us causing us to suppress our intelligence and ignore our gifts. The Art of Sucker Duckin teaches us to surround ourselves with those who bring out the best in us and DUCK those who bring out the worst in us.

Dreams and Nightmare (Life of a menace) is a book about a young woman's deep secrets, abuse, and the pain in life she encountered growing up as a teen. Rather it was sexual abuse, physical abuse, getting pregnant at a young age, or losing the love of her life, young Coretha strived to defeat, all odds in life. She had to fend for herself with no real positive guidance from family, just judgement. Despite the lifestyle she was living or her past, she was determined to come out on top.

Coffee: A Reflection of My Life's Relationships is a short collection of poetry. A different take on a memoir, Coffee highlights different points of life and the relationships along the way. From fond memories of childhood to the world we live in now, the book takes a dive into the world of James. Stemmed from an idea of first sharing his writing with others, James explores a wide range of emotions throughout his life thus far. Afraid of the way his words would impact others, James decided that these pieces would best highlight how his life has been shaped and how his journey may influence others.

Earl James Berry is the patriarch of the Berry family and lifelong friend of Elijah Edwards. As one of the first Black district attorneys in Hennepin County, his success rate in convictions took him to a seat on the bench. He has had a long and distinguished career in the field of law and justice, and the reputation of being a tough but fair judge. Family and being rooted in faith has always seen his family through, until a fateful Election Night in 2012… As his life hangs by a thread, we see his life and legacy through the lenses of his wife, six children, and a grandson, and wonder is a “gift” passed down through generations will help solve a mystery. The place: Minneapolis.

Never Give Up is a family saga, beginning in 2012 in Minneapolis. It tells the story of Earl James
Berry, patriarch of the Berry family and lifelong friend to Elijah Edwards. Like Eli, Earl is a man of
character, honor, and integrity, highly respected, well loved. Through his connections to the powerful
Edwards family, doors of opportunity opened for Earl. Although he did not come from old money, he
made a name for himself as well as becoming another role model and success story in the community.
As one of the first African-American district attorneys in Hennepin County, he racked up a
success rate in convictions that took him to a seat on the bench for criminal court cases. He has had a
long and distinguished career in the field of law and justice, and the reputation of being a tough but fair
judge. All of his children have married well and are successful in their own right. Family and being rooted
in faith have always seen them through, until a fateful day of what should have been a time of
celebration comes…
As his life hangs by a thread, we see his life and legacy through the eyes of his wife, his six
children and one of his grandchildren, and wonder if a “gift” passed down through the generations will
help to solve a mystery.

Follow little Ardelia as she explores her new city and notices the many roles of the Black women in the community. Ardelia begins to imagine herself in these roles, which leads to a family time of sharing stories and memories that affirm Ardelia and inspire her to reach for her dreams. This book illustrates to children and adults alike, the importance of representation, self-value, and identity. Perfect for ages 3 - 8.

Blend In or Fade out is a remarkable story of a young girl who is desperate to discover her true identity. A biracial baby adopted into a middle-class Black family, Colnese struggles to know where she belongs. Growing up in South Minneapolis during the 1970s, Colnese searches for her birth mother, and herself, while navigating Minnesota's racial and cultural divide. Abusive men, drugs and alcohol, and her own violence and vindictiveness plague her life. Heartbreaking and inspiring in more ways than one, Colnese eventually finds her path to healing--a lifelong journey.

An assortment of stories from the genre of speculative fiction. Stories include black science fiction, fantasy, and horror.

In today’s world, people must deal with fear of all kinds economic strain in a shortage of jobs, car students to dread what will happen after their education is complete parents worry when they’re adolescent children become unruly and ignore their advice. Fear crosses all boundaries and visits all groups throughout humanity.

With fear so much on our minds fear not God is in charge seeks to encourage us and help us face the Ferris wheel and counter, no matter what you’re afraid of God, your creator, and father, in heaven, will take care of it. Once you know that God is the alpha mega, the beginning in the end you can express inner peace and unspeakable joy. Fear can hinder your progress in life, but through his word, God will remind you not to be afraid Author, Florence Maina shares some of her experiences and struggles to show how God intervene in her life to display fear through his word. You too can overturn the difficulties your face by becoming open insincere. It’s writing everything to the Lord, the spiritual guide book services a reminder that God is there to comfort you and help you through your fears no matter what their source may be.

A simple book about God’s attributes in nature, through the eyes of a child. Using simple similes “The mountain is big, ancient, and immovable … Like God” children learn to look for God around them in the natural world.

"A Ballad for the Dawn" is a collection of poetry, prose and personal reflections from the mind and heart of an African American Pastor, Parent, Teacher, Community Advocate and POET. It is both uplifting and deeply moving.

This captivating book tells the story of Hasna, a young girl who courageously expresses her unique identity on her first day of school. With an admirable sense of creativity and style, Hasna matches her hijabs with her outfits, and this earns her the admiration of her classmates. Through Hasna's inspiring journey, children learn that wearing a hijab is not only a means of covering up but also a way of celebrating one's individuality and showcasing their unique beauty. Moreover, the book instills in children the confidence to embrace their differences and to cherish their unique qualities. With its powerful message of self-expression and acceptance, this book empowers children to be proud of their distinctiveness and encourages them to be confident in their own skin.

Dear Black Girl, You Can! is an inspirational career affirming book for all Black girls to chase their career dreams. In this beautifully illustrated rhyming book, your little reader will navigate through many careers with a powerful message from the author, Felicia Phillips. This book will activate Black Girl Magic, inspire and motivate, and affirm your little readers career. Illustrated by Fatima Azhar.

Val is excited because she wants everyone to communicate with their families positively. She introduces The Family Unity Roundtable and shares some of her favorite recipes. Find out what the little Purple Star means in Val's World. The Author, M. Ann Machen Pritchard is one of the 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading!

Black child run, a story of cultural lessons and behaviors to empower today's children with healthy family values. A book to be shared and experienced in the warmth of family and community.

“Black Girl, Black Girl, what do you see? I see a bright future ahead of me!” Black Girl, Black Girl brings the same powerful messages: Black girls can be surgeons, pilots, presidents . . . anything they want to be! Each page depicts a girl looking into the future, seeing her grown-up self, and admiring the greatness reflected back at her. This book was created to teach Black girls there are no barriers―if you can dream it, you can be it! This book is for Black girls to see themselves as the heroes of the story. This book is for Black girls learning to read, with helpful repetitive patterns. This book is for Black girls as their subconscious mantra.

A self-affirmation book that Stephanie Shider uses in her program Girls on a Mission. Celebrating EVERY girls worth and beauty to encourage each girl to Love themselves JUST the way they are, UNAPOLOGETICALLY!

Let’s Take a Sankofa Moment and celebrate Black Boy Joy with Masai as he takes pride in teaching about Black culture and practices through Kwanzaa! Masai uses historical and current social justice events to emphasize the brilliance and resilience of Black people. “7 Is My Favorite Number!” builds upon the foundation of Kwanzaa to affirm Black children and their culture. Historical and current achievements of Black people are embedded in this celebratory story of Kwanzaa and Black culture.

Soul Food Baby From A-Z is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that serves as a keepsake for some of our favorite Soul Food dishes. Join Soul Food Baby and her family as they take a rhythmic journey from dish to dish using Grandma Sankofa’s Soul Food list from A-Z. A creative way to teach the alphabet and teach children about the many dishes that have served Black communities and shaped cooking practices around the world for generations.

From the 1960s R&B scene in New York City to the Minneapolis Sound of the 1980s, Pepé Willie has been up close and personal with some of the most explosive American-grown music and musicians of the latter half of the twentieth century. The nephew of Clarence Collins of Little Anthony and the Imperials, Pepé Willie spent his Brooklyn youth surrounded by groundbreaking R&B and soul musicians. He worked as a valet for Little Anthony and the Imperials and the many legendary acts who shared the stage with them―from Ray Charles and Patti LaBelle to the Four Tops and the Supremes. Pepé rubbed elbows with the hottest stars of the day and got an up-close look at the inner workings of the music business.

In Bennie Brown’s new book ABCs of Life: Stories of Tamika children will be taught practical bible lessons through short stories involving a fictional character. Young Tamika comes alive in these stories as she encounters situations in her life at school, home and church. Lessons cover her world from A to Z, and as the stories are taught by parents and teachers, children will learn and remember each lesson. The main character is faced with everyday circumstances that are relatable to all children. When faced with different events, your children should be able to recall the story and apply the basic Christian principle in their own lives.

Teach each story individually or in small groups, read them aloud in a classroom setting or at bedtime.

Excerpt from the book, from the short story A is for Attitude:

Tamika was so happy to get off the bus at her stop, she missed a step and fell to the ground. As she reached her front door, her thoughts were, “Boy am I glad this day is over”.

In this enthralling sequel to The Unbanished, T. Aaron Cisco delivers another atmospheric Afro-fantasy epic, filled with mesmerizing suspense, astonishing action, and unexpected twists that will leave you breathless. Set adrift in the aftermath of the Grand Revolution, Marie "The One-Woman Plague" finds herself plagued by a growing sense of ennui. Her once celebrated profession has been deemed illegal, her unrivaled skills squandered on petty adversaries, and most disconcerting of all, she has developed a troubling aversion to the very violence that once defined her. But when an old friend tasks her with investigating a mysterious disappearance, Marie must confront forces more powerful than anything she's ever encountered. The stakes have never been higher, as Marie faces off against unimaginable forces of darkness that threaten to upend the fragile balance of the post-Revolution world. It's a pulse-pounding race against time as Marie must confront her own demons, rediscover her lethal instincts, and harness her unparalleled skills to vanquish the encroaching evil.
Every monsoon starts, with a single drop of rain...

Remind Me Again: Poems and Practices for Remembering Who We Are is a collection of 41 poems and practices to remind us who we are and what’s possible together. We Rise Higher is a collection dedicated to the next generation who are showing the world just how high we can rise together.
The poems in each book feature interactive content that invites creative responses and reflections for readers' everyday lives.

Former NFL player, speaker, and champion for youth, Steve Fitzhugh, shares life lessons from his childhood in this colorful and humorous collection of adventures. The Adventures of Lil' Stevie, Book 1: Canines, Campouts, and Cousins is the first in a series of books where Steve shows kids that life is exciting and they can rise above adversity by making good choices. Ideal for kids 7-14 years old.

Allan Beckley Christopher is a self-made, Black multimillionaire. Succeeding against the odds in the 1960s, he turned a fix-it shop in southside Chicago into a multimillion-dollar corporation. He’s “made his mark.” He is among the Who’s Who of Black America. His company is among the Fortune 500. He is a mover and shaker in the community, with all the connections. He faithfully attends church on Sundays. But has he made it? With the advent of his 60th birthday, his character, past, and beliefs come into focus, honor, and question as his story is told through the lenses of his family—including his four LGBT children—and with it his impact on their lives. The time: 1988. The place: Chicago.

The book begins after her death. She is dead and buried by the grace of God. She is allowed to see how her life affects others before entering heaven, she recalls in detail the events of her life which led to her amazing life, this bigger than slavery, and ends in freedom.

The main character is titled Mary Lu. She is from a highly religious Christian family, born into slavery. She experiences all the horrors of slavery yet retains her innocence. She handles her problems by prayer during a spring thunderstorm she has struck by lightning and given gifts. She is removed from her family and placed in the big house and trained as a domestic house live there she realizes her supernatural gifts and helps many people. Her gifts become widely known, and she becomes a threat to slavery and their way of life, she runs away in hopes of finding safety, and only discovers a demonic plot to kill her and everyone she has come into contact with.

During her journey to freedom and safety, as she marries, and is involved in an amazing love story, which produces a child in her journey to freedom, she encounters various dangers trials, demonic forces, and is alternately guided by the forces of good. Angels are sad from heaven and human form to guide, protect and insure the freedom and safety of her family.

The Reflective Accountability journal walks you through the stages of processing unfair, difficult, or adverse events or situations. Each journal page encourages the writer to summarize the situation, identify those involved, ponder alternative solutions, take ownership of their actions, and close out the reflection with gratitude and creativity.

Inspiring and motivating quotes on responsibility and accountability are placed throughout the pages of the journal as well.

Men, women, teens, and pre-teens can use these journals as a form of writing therapy to gradually ease feelings of emotional frustration or trauma. They can also be used to safely gather and articulate thoughts prior to verbally addressing conflicts.

Kevin L. A. Jenkins' story of victory over kidney disease will inspire and encourage everyone to live their best lives. More than that, Kevin shares the eight principles that he used as a guide on his journey in order to help others who are living with kidney disease.This book is to help those navigating the treatment process for kidney failure and needing guidance. I was once in your shoes and recognize the emotional roller coaster that is living with kidney disease. "I am here to let you know that by keeping a positive attitude about your situation you can navigate anything. Always remember to speak life over your situation and consider the eight principles I used as a guide on my journey.

NASA astrophysicist, Tony Smart tells his moment ago declassified story from 1995 to the Washington Post newspaper about his experience with the Supreme Hogon and the Dogon people of Mali, Africa.

The Supreme Hogon can see the universe without the aid of a telescope. Originally a skeptic, Tony marveled at this best kept secret, and even became very fond of him after the Dogon helped him rid himself from his cancer. Now he feels he owes the Supreme Hogon, whose proper name is Ambaro, his life. What depths will Tony go to repay his debt to Ambaro?

As a child, I remember my granny's stories and wanting to be able to relay a message and captivate an audience just a fraction of the way she could. One story, in particular, that I could never forget was when she spoke of how growing up in the segregated South caused her to hate the color of her skin. She was ostracized by darker-skinned children for being too ''white'' and by white children for not being ''white'' enough.
So many times black and brown children are made to feel inadequate because of our complexion and features. These feelings plant seeds that manifest into self-hatred and low self-esteem. I aim to help change that narrative by creating images and crafting content that tell a different story; a story of beauty, appreciation, and love.
''Carry confidence in your complexion because of the royalty in your reflection. Take a good look at what you see, and love yourself with no objection. Out of all the colors in the world, yours was chosen just for you. Nothing to hide--stand tall with pride. Your hue looks good on you!'

Alecia Mobley grew up in a military family and has lived all over the world from Panama, Central
America to Ft. Rucker, Alabama. Her love for writing and journaling started at an early age as
this was the primary method of staying in contact with others during transitions to new cities and
spaces. In her debut book, she explores the feelings, emotions, lessons, and stressors that
come along with finding both your purpose and destinations along the path of life.
An administrator in Special Education, Alecia is no stranger to advocacy and creating and
sustaining spaces where healing and access are imperative. She uses the aforementioned as
grounding tenets in her book.

Live to Grow: A Collection Of Poems for Growth- Original poetry to inspire growth, self-reflection, motivation and celebration of strength. Written by spoken word artist, Lady TCB over a span of 15+years.
Live to Grow: Breaking Cycles-We always think of breaking cycles to be for those deep dark moments that seep into our lives and sometimes overtake, some would say hijack, our choices and life’s experiences. In this book I speak on different cycles as a writer and a poet. Both from personal experience and by the truths shared with me by many, that I have also seen reflected in the stories of those that I do not know personally. How we are raised often affects our choices with how we view the world, how we choose to date, how we show up for ourselves and others and how we may develop relationships, goals and health. Breaking cycles can mean changes in thought process or actions. Breaking the cycle may mean breaking connections or changing them, decreasing or increasing the strength of them. Breaking cycles could mean changing how we respond to life, others and even ourselves. Breaking a cycle can be the breaking of a cycle that has the theoretical size equivalence of a dime or the impact of freeing someone once bound or imprisoned, be it mentally, spiritually or even varying degrees of physically.

Who is Delores Henderson? In this book, you will discover how a little girl with a love for reading and learning grew up to fight racism to become recognized as the first Black National Distinguished Principal for the State of Minnesota. Delores' life shows us what is possible if we believe. Readers will learn about her persistence and hard work and will be inspired by Delores' indomitable spirit.

Dear Black Boy, You Can! is a beautifully illustrated book written by Felicia Phillips and her son, Co author, Hayden. Hayden is a 7 year old imaginative young boy who dares to dream bring and believe he can be anything he wants to be in life. This book will take your little reader on an adventure of different careers while affirming him that he CAN!

The Spirit of Sixteen is based on a true story. This is a story of love, hate, ruthless betrayal, fear, faith, forgiveness and courage. A young woman, Gloria Ann Freely, has a difficult time trusting anyone and making her own decisions. She wants to learn how to overcome her fears. After going through many trials and tribulations in her life, including being held against her will and brutally beaten, Gloria Ann finds strength in faith and forgiveness. Things can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time in their life, but with faith in God, you can get through anything. The Author, M. Ann Machen Pritchard is one of the 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading.

5 Essential Principles identifies the conditions, political posture and psychological disposition necessary for black men to heal and raise healthy black boys. This book is a must read for anyone hoping to improve the lives of black boys, black men and restore the families and communities they live in.

Black Boy, Black Boy, what do you see? I see a bright future ahead of me! A melodic mantra with a powerful message: Black boys can be a doctor, a judge, the president . . . anything they want to be! Each page depicts a boy looking into the future, seeing his grown-up self, and admiring the greatness reflected back at him. This book is created to teach Black boys there are no barriers--if you can dream it, you can be it! This book is for Black boys so they see themselves as the heroes of the story. This book is for Black boys so the repetitive patterns help them learn to read.

I think I Like My Natural Hair is a declaration to all, women and men, that your beauty first starts from within. Knowing "who you are and whose you are," is a self-affirmation that helps you focus on what really matters. Through research and discussion with other young women and men with similar stories, Stephanie brings us along her journey and self-discovery as she unveils her struggle of finding her true beauty that transformed her understanding of self. Some important lessons she learned is that #1 Surface beauty is just one aspect to who you are and can eventually fade #2 God desires for us to focus on our character first; how we treat others and ourselves #3 Loving others first starts with loving ourselves and that love begins with first identifying that you are a child of God and should represent yourself in that way at all times; As a person of excellence because our God is Excellent. Therefore, come along on Stephanie's new journey of finding her beauty within as she discovered how to truly love Stephanie as, Stephanie.

Creative Crown Turn That Frown Upside Down! I Love My Natural Hair Is a story about a little girl who was teased at school about her natural hair. With a little help from her Grandma Sankofa, she is reminded how much she loves her natural hair. Her confidence increases with the turn of each page as she magically changes hairstyles and makes personal connections when she sees her reflection.

Black Girl Hair Affirmations: Is one of our Color Me Beautiful Activity and Coloring Books! Children get to use their creativity to celebrate and affirm the variety of beautiful natural hairstyles just for young Black girls along with beautiful images of them in African princess gowns. We designed this activity and coloring book for children to have fun using their creativity to color the images beautiful, enjoy the puzzles, games and word searches created to affirm young Black girls and their hairstyles.

I am on a journey of finding and accepting myself as I am, and as I was born to be. Have you ever admired something in another individual and thought maybe you could learn something from them? Many of us do, and then we later realize we are everything we have been searching for. All the things you admire about someone else may be manifesting inside of you. Then again, maybe what God has for you is just different. We all have our own walk, our own journey and we must find peace in our own journey. We were born with purpose and destiny, and we have to activate it at some point. I tapped into my power, I found "HER".

Stories are all around us. There are stories from now, and a thousand years ago. There are stories to be read quickly, and some that are better slow ago. There are stories that clash, and stories that vibe. Yes, there have been stories since the beginning of time. This collection of stories is a little bit odd. These are bedtime story poems, about faeries and robots and monsters and gods. They are about what once was, what could be, and might have been. And even the spooky ones will make you grin. Enjoy them all as you say goodnight, but before you read them, turn on the lights....

After Grant purchases, a box of his favorite cereal with a $5-dollar bill, he receives his change and a receipt. Upon leaving the grocery store, Grant is made aware by his Mom Ella that he received incorrect change from the cashier. This story shares Grant’s experience of counting basic money, overcoming fear and practicing his everyday manners at the grocery store to regain his correct change. This is simple story that could be a real-life scenario and used as a day time or bed time read for young children.

In "CHARGE: A Young Woman's Guide to Healthy Relationships", author Steve Fitzhugh writes a love letter to his granddaughter that provides instruction and wisdom for the kind of relationships young women should seek. The Fitzhugh Foundation is a proud sponsor of this effort to educate young women on the meaning of CHARGE. Cherish Me, Honor Me, Adore Me, Respect Me (for I am) God's Expression! Tragically, our high schools and in some cases even middle schools have far too many young ladies who because of poor friendship choices fine themselves with unnecessarily heartache. The culprit, young immature boys who have yet to discover the proper way to present themselves. Charge is every young man's challenge and every young woman's dream.

Our story begins in 2005 in Nassau, Bahamas.
For all intents and purposes, 18-year-old Allan Christopher Davis has everything going for him.
He is the son of international music legends Lissa and Michael Davis of the jazz ensemble Sunrise. His
grandfather is billionaire Allan Beckley Christopher, founder of the Fortune 100 company Christopher
Electronics. His cousin is Elijah Edwards, patriarch of the powerful Edwards branch of the Christopher
family, known in family circles for his “gift.” Elijah’s wife, Donna Gray Edwards, is the queen of Twin
Cities society, yet there is no place in the world she cannot reach to make things happen. He and his
twin brother, Michael Davis, Jr., live in a beautiful villa in the Bahamas, raised by loving parents.
The islands, however, are no longer what they seemed to be. Allan is openly gay, yet he is stifled
in a relationship with a closeted boyfriend and only tolerated in public, and he has reached his limits. In
strong family unity, the Davises leave the Bahamas and return to the United States, where roots are
reestablished and, hopefully, Allan will find the kind of love he wants so much.
But what awaits a child of celebrity in a country obsessed with celebrities, with heightened
media and internet scrutiny? What lies in store for Allan on his road to the man of his dreams, before
and after he finds him? How “normal” will normal be?

Embark on an extraordinary cosmic adventure with Sideena, a scientist and engineer, in "Adventures with Sideena ABCs In Space". Join her as she takes you on an alphabetical journey through outer space. From Astronauts to Zero Gravity, she guides young readers through rhymes and mesmerizing illustrations. She will ignite curiosity, inspire scientific thinking, and foster a love for space exploration with this captivating children's book.

Inside of the Kids Edition journal, you'll find a safe space for younger children to constructively express how they feel and identify what they need. There are also encouraging and fun activities placed throughout the journal pages, motivating the child to write freely. Afterward, children can share these pages and activities with parents and loved ones, ideally resulting in stronger relationship bonds.

Youth can use these journals as a form of writing therapy to gradually ease feelings of emotional frustration.

Jamal and Me Freedom Summer is a 2022 Jerry Pickney Children's Book Finalist. A magical tale of compassion and courage based on the true events of Mississippi Freedom Summer, 1964. Nine-year-old Jamal from Minnesota is a jelly-bean-counting whiz kid who wins the school Jelly Bean Counting Contest. His Grandma Lynn wishes Jamal had been around when her mother was alive in Mississippi in the sixties, a time of Black voter suppression. Ma Dear was never able to vote because she couldn’t pass the test of guessing the number of jelly beans in a jar. Jamal, too, wishes he could have helped his great grandmother. Jamal’s wish magically comes true with the help of a tiny, beautiful butterfly lady, Queen Azina.

Rising to accept a prestigious award, Jody Lulich wondered what to say.
Explain how he’d been attracted to veterinary medicine? Describe how
caring for helpless, voiceless animals in his own shame and pain provided
a lifeline, a chance to heal himself as well? Lulich tells his story in In the
Company of Grace, a memoir about finding courage in compassion and strength
in healing—and power in finally confronting the darkness of his youth.
Lulich’s white father and Black mother met at a civil rights rally, but love was no
defense against their personal demons. His mother’s suicide, in his presence when
he was nine years old, and his sometimes brutal father’s subsequent withdrawal
set Lulich on a course from the South Side of Chicago to the Tuskegee School
of Veterinary Medicine in Alabama to an endowed chair at the University of
Minnesota, forever searching for the approval and affection that success could not
deliver. Though shadowed by troubling secrets, his memoir also features scenes
of surprising light and promise—of the neighbors who take him in, a brother’s
unlikely effort to save Christmas, his mother’s memories of the family’s charmed
early days, bright moments (and many curious details) of veterinary practice. Most
consequentially, at Tuskegee Lulich rents a room in the home of a seventy-five-year old
Black woman named Grace, whose wholehearted adoption of him and her own
stories of the Jim Crow era finally gives him a sense of belonging and possibility.
Completing his book in the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, Lulich reflects on all
the ways that race has shaped his life. In the Company of Grace is a moving testament
to the power of compassion in the face of seemingly overwhelming circumstances.
Jody Lulich is professor of veterinary clinical services and internal medicine at the
University of Minnesota, where he holds the Osborne/Hills Chair in Nephrology/
Urology and is director of the Minnesota Urolith Center. He is a classical pianist
and lives in the Twin Cities with his husband.R

“The Echo in the Distance” written by Shayla Michelle, is a moving tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream shared from the Lincoln Memorial on August 28, 1963.
Millions watched as the civil rights leader delivered his hope for the future, his dream for what America could be.
Decades later, the iconic “I Have A Dream” speech has continued to transcend time. It turns 60 years old in 2023.
“Echo in the Distance” reflects on the speech, the history that followed and serves as a reminder that each individual can play a role in realizing the dream first shared in 1963.

My Daddy Tells Me… is a heartwarming children’s book
highlighting the life-changing power of a positive father-daughter bond. My
Daddy Tells Me… emphasizes the importance of fathers giving their daughters
verbal encouragement that will ultimately shape their self-image and how they
identify with their society and environments. Her daddy’s affirmations counter
pervasive and damaging cultural myths about gender, colorism, cultural
practices, and traditional family dynamics. Mai, in turn, is a bright spot in
his life as he navigates leaving Vietnam for a new life in the US. Their
father-daughter bond is infectious and representative of the sweet essence of
trust and understanding between a parent and child.

Inspired by a true story; written in the eyes of four siblings as they witness their mother’s valiant effort to become a schoolteacher. The journey from motherhood to career is one shared by women around the world. This book is about the determination, empowerment, and love modeled by a mother to her children as she fulfills her dream while remaining endlessly devoted to her children.

Otis wasn't scared of many things, but at the top of his list? Bees."When Grandpa was younger, he was afraid of bees too. That is, until he learned more about them. "Bees are amazing insects," Grandpa tells Otis. "They're pollinating powerhouses!"

Phil the Pill and Friends Making Positive Choices is a wonderful children's book with cartoon characters encouraging young children to make positive choices. It is sure to make you smile, or even sing, as five children's songs are included to brighten up your day! The Author, M. Ann Machen Pritchard is one of the 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading!

5 Essential Principles identifies the conditions, political posture and psychological disposition necessary to raise Black boys and to attend to the needs of Black men. The book is a must read for anyone invested in the success and personhood of Black boys, Black men, their families, and communities. A book filled with cultural wisdom, theoretical pedagogy and personal anecdotes sure to reach the hearts and minds of young and old, scholar and lay person.

When Nikki suffers the tremendous loss of her sister Lizzy, the Little Wanderers rally to help her navigate her painful journey through the stages of grief. Like Nikki, we will all experience loss and grief at some time in our lives. Her journey shows readers that even when the tears won’t stop flowing and it feels like happiness will never return, one day they will smile and laugh again. Time goes on and grief eventually fades, but we will always remember our loved ones and the special times together.

Meet Taji, an ordinary girl leading an everyday life until one fateful day changes everything. In a heart-pounding accident that should have taken an ordinary turn, Taji discovers that fate has something else in store for her.



What starts as a horrifying accident quickly transforms into something remarkable.



"Crown Comic Issue One" is a thrilling tale of resilience, transformation, and the incredible strength that lies within. It's a story that reminds us all that ordinary individuals can become extraordinary when they find the courage to rise above adversity.



Join Taji on a mesmerizing journey as she navigates her way through a world forever changed by straightening cream. It's a gripping narrative that explores the boundaries of human potential and celebrates the incredible beauty of embracing one's true self.



In a world where heroes come in all shapes and sizes, "Crown Comic Issue One" is a captivating tribute to the indomitable spirit that resides within us all. Get ready to witness Taji's epic transformation and discover the power of the human spirit in this thrilling and unforgettable comic book adventure.

They were a compilation of seven stories revolving around the Oromo people. The first story talks about how the leadership system of the Oromo is on the verge of extinction due to the encroachment of Christianity and foreigners seeking expansion. Abba Gadaa, their current leader tries to make a stand but is faced with a mysterious death. The second is about how Abba Gadaa Liban Doyo was forced to oversee an election against his wishes. We see how votes are being lobbied and the violence corruption brings.

Join Grandma Sankofa as she teaches Restorative Practices to kids in her community! She uses Restorative Practices principles to teach about values, friendship and respect for humanity. Grandma Sankofa says, “Be a good friend, Love and Listen until the end!” She uses traditional African practices like storytelling, call and response, song, dance, and games to make everyone feel welcomed and valued.

Black Girl, Black Girl What Do You See? I See A Black Princess Looking At Me! is a "Call and Response" book that affirms the variety of creative and beautiful natural hairstyles just for young Black girls. Each page has vibrant illustrations of young Black girls wearing their favorite natural hairstyles with confidence and pride. This book also celebrates the fact that Black girls are princesses too! Each girl is presented in a vibrant African printed princess gown. We hope to spark more conversation and inspiration for young Black girls to be proud of their natural beauty and the many creative ways in which they can style their hair and enjoy being beautiful Black princesses. Inside you will find tools to support and empower Black Girls: A letter from the authors to empower Black Girls, an affirmation poem from the authors to affirm Black Girls and references for other organizations that celebrate and affirm Black Girls and their natural beauty.