Deyssy

My name is Deyssy (she/her). When I wrote my books I was a student at the University of the District of Columbia. I am majoring in Social Work and expect to graduate in May 2023. When I am not writing or in classes, I am interning at So Others Might Eat (SOME), working at a local restaurant, or painting! Once I graduate from UDC, I would like to attend law school and enter a full-time job where I can keep helping vulnerable communities.  I want to let my readers know that no matter how hard or difficult times can be, there is always a light of hope encouraging you to not give up. As human beings, we are fighters.

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Josiah

My name is Josiah and I wrote “Zim and the Quest for the Cloak.” I live in Washington, DC and go to DC Prep. I like to have discussions with friends and also play video games. I’m interested in anime and documentaries. When I grow up I would like to be a United States Marine. People should read my story because it’s fantasy and it is very suspenseful.

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Kevin

My name is Kevin and I wrote “The Tale of Two Kobes.” In my free time, I like to watch basketball, read, and nap. I enjoyed participating in this project because I was able to experience what it was like to be an author. I want my audience to know that if they experience a loss, their idols can still be remembered in their accomplishments. When I am older I want to go to college and become a math teacher.

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Khalil

My name is Khalil and I wrote “Survivor.” I like to read and also play video games. I live in Washington, DC and go to Washington Leadership Academy Public Charter School. I’m interested in learning to cook for myself and reading harder books. When I grow up, I would like to be a voice actor. People should read my story because it has an important message. "Stop bullying, and remember that everyone’s life matters."

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Chase

My name is Chase and I wrote “Hoops and Hopes.” I live in Washington, DC and go to DC Prep. In my free time, I like to play basketball. I also really enjoy riding my bike, playing video games, and writing, although I am still getting used to doing it on a computer. (I have very nice handwriting.) When I grow up, I would like to be a civil engineer. People should read my story because I believe that during these times people should read more about young Black men. Also I believe that my story contains messages that are amusing, powerful, and useful.

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Samaria

I’m Samaria. I was 15 years old when I wrote my book. I like to draw and paint anything, especially people and landscapes. This is my first book with Reach and Shout Mouse. I wanted to write this book because I like to express myself with art, and now I get to do it with words! I hope that when kids read our book they learn that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

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ReachKathy Crutchershayla
Joseph C

My name is Joseph (he/him). I was a junior in high school when I wrote my first book with Shout Mouse Press and I was a senior when I wrote my story, “Democracy How?,” in What It Cost Us. At this moment in my life, I am trying to find a balance. I have not yet, but I will let you know when I do! In the future, I plan to go to grad school and study medicine in hopes of becoming a radiology oncologist. I want readers of this book to know that you are never alone. I want parents to know that it’s okay to listen to kids. And I want kids to know that their feelings matter, and it’s okay to speak up.

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Danya

I’m Danya. I was a 16-year-old 11th grader at Anacostia High School when I wrote my book. When there’s not a pandemic, I like to go to the mall with friends or go to parks with my family. I hope this book helps young readers learn about problem solving and good communication.

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ReachKathy Crutchershayla
Damarco

My name is Damarco and I was a 17-year-old senior at Luke C. Moore High School in Washington, DC when he wrote his book. I enjoy basketball and making clothing. I’ll be dropping a new clothing line soon, and I hope you’ll check it out! This is my first book. I hope that this story will provide all our readers some understanding of the impact of police violence.

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Emilie

I am Emilie, and I was 15 years old. when I wrote my book. I am a sophomore at Coolidge High School in Washington, DC. I like playing sports, writing, baking, and cooking. This is my first book. I wrote this book because in this world there is a lot of injustice against African Americans, and letting kids learn about this through story is a good way to spread the word and get them talking.

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Geralyn

My name is Geralyn, GiGi for short. I was a 16-year-old junior at Anacostia High School when I wrote my book. Outside of school, I enjoy hanging out with friends and shopping. I hope to build on my love of people through a career in psychology or sociology. I want young readers of our book to know that just because they’re little doesn’t mean they can’t make a difference in the world.

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Shatyia

My name is Shatyia, and I was a sophomore at H.D. Woodson High School when I wrote my book. My favorite activities are drawing, reading, and cooking. This is my first book. I hope that my young readers recognize that someone like you can have a huge impact on others, whether big or small. I hope this story inspires you to be a better person, and to always stand up for what you believe in.

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