Black Joy & Imagination Children’s Set
Black Joy & Imagination Children’s Set
In celebration of Black lives, we’ve created a set of children’s picture books that focus on Black joy and imagination. These books are written by the teen authors of Reach Incorporated and explore themes of love, community, and self-expression.
Books In This Set
by Trevon and Kahliya of Reach Incorporated
Where can you go to grill half-smokes, captain pirate ships, shoot hoops, feed ducks, and watch the sun set magnificently over the river? Welcome to historic Anacostia Park, in Southeast Washington, D.C. Join us on an adventure through this local landmark through the eyes of D.C.’s youngest residents, and feel the ordinary become extraordinary.
ISBN: 978-1-945434-94-5
Age: 2-4
Lexile: 500L
Page Count: 32
Published: Fall 2018
by Abreona, Kairon, and Cassandra of Reach Incorporated
Every year on the first day of school, Carla’s friends show up wearing the coolest new shoes. But not Carla -- her mom always buys her the Same Lame Boring Plain sneakers. And this year is no different. This time, though, Carla won’t settle for more of the same. With a little advice from her older cousin Josh, a few experiments, and a whole lot of creativity, Carla decides to take a chance and do her own thing. But what will her classmates think of her creation?
ISBN: 978-1945434068
Age: 4-9
Lexile: 550L
Page Count: 38
Published: Fall 2017
by Kyare, Za'Metria, and Litzi of Reach Incorporated
Story: Khalil is tired of hearing his parents fight. As they scream, he retreats to his closet and writes a letter to his future self, dreaming of escape. To his surprise, this future self – called Bruh – shows up to provide support. Together, they visit a fantastical place called Swagtown and learn how families can communicate better.
Story Behind the Story: These teen authors knew that kids need to see themselves and their own struggles represented in the stories they read in order to know they are not alone. They also like things that are outlandish and wacky! This story is a smart and fun combination of both.
ISBN: 978-0692300800
Age: 4-9
Lexile: 540L
Page Count: 42
Published: Fall 2014
by Brittany, Dartavius, and Don’Nayah of Reach Incorporated
Every day, Tiffany hears that her smile is so bright it lights up the room. But on the morning of her ballet recital, something goes very wrong: Tiffany's two front teeth fall out. Tiffany doesn't want anyone to laugh at her new crazy smile or make fun of her lisp. But how can she avoid attention on the day she’s on stage in the spotlight?
ISBN: 978-1-945434-97-6
Age: 2-4
Lexile: 500L
Page Count: 38
Published: Fall 2018
Recognition & Impact
A to Z The Real DC, Tyrell’s Big Move, Adventures in Ana Park, and Finding Mumbo are being used in curriculum by DC Public Schools Summer Learning Academy.