“In a world that continuously asks itself about our future, Stubborn Roots delivers the answer in a remarkable collection written by young adults that sets us on fire. Each personal essay and poem is vulnerable, bold, achingly honest, probing, and hopeful. This luminous collection doesn't ask; instead, it demands that readers not only witness each writer's story but also participate in building something new, something better, something collectively ours. A new world lined with poems made of pure gold.”

—Yesika Salgado, author of Corazón

“Poetry has long been the language of resistance and revolution, and Stubborn Roots is a testament to this truth: young poets have the power to liberate themselves, their communities, and ultimately, the world. This anthology is a gift not just to its readers, but to the future these young activists are actively building.” 

—Christine Platt, author of Less is Liberation

"The poems and essays in Stubborn Roots have changed me in ways I was unprepared for. The profundity of their observations of the world, and of themselves, left me in awe. This is a special book filled with special writers." —Clint Smith, author of How the Word is Passed

"When I founded DC SCORES in 1994, I never imagined the tremendous impact our organization would have. This anthology is a testament to thousands of dedicated DC SCORES coaches, staff, and poet-athletes and the incredible program they built in the District. These poems are a beautiful portrait of a city seen through the eyes of its young people and teach us that we can all create change by using the power of imagination, community, and collective voice. I'm inspired in my own daily life by the writing on these pages."

—Julie Kennedy, founder of DC SCORES

“Within these pages are voices and worlds that bristle with honey and remind us that beauty, like love, is everywhere and undeniable. I'm so grateful for how many of these voices have come together, they are an abundance that rivals the sky herself.”

—Julian Randall, author of Pilar Ramirez and the Escape from Zafa

“My closeted-gay inner child found healing here. The Light Looks Like Me is a masterful anthology of lyrical language about love in all its infinite forms. These brilliant and brave youth voices are a salve for any person in search of poetic stories that will inspire hope, joy, grace, and freedom. It is truly a bright and sparkling literary gem.”
—Tony Keith Jr., author of Knucklehead and How the Boogeyman Became a Poet

“This unflinching anthology pulls the truths about queerness, love, and the indelible power of healing. Every piece brings us a step closer to an all encompassing definition of love as an act of resistance. These young writers refuse to stay quiet in the face of silencing and censorship. The Light Looks Like Me is the soundtrack of resilience and an anthem for survival.”
—Roya Marsh, author of dayliGht and savings time

“In a time when heartlessness, greed, and hate are not just rampant, but elected, these words  are lanterns and fireworks in the dark. May reading this anthology not only wrap you in the sanctuary of queer love, but may it be a reminder of exactly what is at stake. Love will always defeat evil; these pieces are testimonies and psalms of that truth.”

—Danez Smith, author of Homie

"A symphony of voices compelling the reader to listen to the next generation." — Amina Luqman-Dawson, Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award Winning Author of Freewater

"Deeply uplifting, empowering, and poignant, Bright Before Us, Like a Flame is the book I wish I had as a teen. With excellent writing prompts and passionate stories of pain, resilience and hope, this book is a call to arms for marginalized youth everywhere to write what feels true to their heart, and will inspire teen writers for generations to come." — Ebony LaDelle, author of Love Radio

“Heart, truth, and light radiate throughout the pages of Bright Before Us, Like a Flame. The stories are honest and unapologetic, unafraid to be exactly what they need to be and say all they need to say. These stories are witnesses to the authors' truths, imaginations, and experiences, shining light on the many facets—both heart-wrenching and joy-filled—that make up their lives.” — Leah Henderson, author of The Courage of the Little Hummingbird

“A lovingly curated collection of art and writing to inspire even the weariest hearts.” —Wendy Shang, author of The Secret Battle of Evan Pao

“This collection is as unique and special as Shout Mouse Press itself, and a gorgeous celebration of a decade of storytelling excellence. In its pages you’ll find a showcase of poetry, comics, illustrations, essays, and stories written by young people—plus an insider look into the creative process, advice from seasoned experts, writing prompts, and more. An inspiring choice for young readers, and anyone searching for a creative spark to share their story.” — Hena Khan, Asian/Pacific American Award-winning author of Amina’s Song

"This book is a gift! Bright Before Us Like a Flame is a celebration of the autonomy of youth. The anthology serves as both an examination of young people’s interior lives and an invitation to readers interested in knowing the awe of self-expression." — #1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds