Shayla's Shutdown Solution








Shayla's Shutdown Solution
by Danya, Joseph, and Samaria of Reach Incorporated
Danya, Joseph, and Samaria were inspired by their experience of being in lockdown with family: both the joys and the challenges. Shayla loves to draw and be creative. But during the shutdown, she's having a hard time finding a place to do what she loves. Her big, multigenerational family seems to always be in the way. Mom and dad are video-chatting. Her brothers and sisters are doing schoolwork. And her little cousins are making messes all over the place. Frustrated, Shayla goes to her Aunties for help. Will she be able to figure out how to make space for herself in a very crowded house?
Want all four titles from this year’s amazing Reach Incorporated authors? Buy the set!
ISBN: 978-1-950807-13-0
Age: 4-9
Lexile: 580L
Page Count: 38
Published: Fall 2020
Meet the Authors
As reading tutors to elementary-aged students, the teens of Reach noticed that few children's books reflected their lived experience as youth of color. So they decided to take action and write their own. Now these D.C. teens are diversifying children's literature, one smart-fun-real-brave-bold story at a time.
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.
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.
Recognition & Impact
The authors of Breonna Marches Through Time, Diarou’s Not So Different, And Justice For Who? and Shayla’s Shutdown Solution were featured on NBC4.
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