The Gloomy Light
The Gloomy Light
by Joshua, Za'Metria, Dana, and Kyare of Reach Incorporated
Ernie and Sal are best friends. Ernie is a multi-lingual llama, and Sal, a color-changing frog. When aliens kidnap Ernie to help them fly their spaceship–they need a translator!–what will Sal do? Join teen authors Joshua, Za’Metria, Dana, and Kyare on this fantastical voyage. Though the characters are animals, human themes of friendship shine through.
ISBN: 9780996927482
Age: 4-9
Lexile: 590L
Page Count: 42
Published: Fall 2013
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.
Kyare attended Eastern Senior High School in Washington, DC when he authored his books. He has been working with Reach since 2011 and is currently a Junior Staff. He enjoys running track and playing baseball.
Dana attended Perry Street Prep High School in Washington, DC when she authored her book. She likes to do hair and hang out. She also likes to play and work with little kids. When she grows up, she wants to be a hairstylist.
Joshua is from Washington, DC. He likes to draw, sleep, watch TV, and go outside. He might want to be an artist. He went to Perry Street Prep when he authored his book.
Recognition & Impact
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By the young writers of Shout Mouse Press
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Foreword by Camonghne Felix, author of Let the Poets Govern.
ISBN: 9781950807901
Age: 12+
Page Count: 220
Coming Fall 2026
Authors: Diana, Aniyah, Tamara
lllustrator: Romeo Montero
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ISBN: 978-1-950807-87-1
Format: Board Book
Page Count: 24
Published March 2026
Authors: Katie, Celeste, Abby
Illustrator: Shurjo Mukhi
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ISBN: 978-1-950807-89-5
Format: Board Book
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Authors: Andrea, Gracie, Raylin
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ISBN: 978-1-950807-88-8
Format: Board Book
Page Count: 24
Published March 2026
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Bright Before Us, Like a Flame
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Educational Curriculum Available:
Discussion Guide created by nelle mills
Zine Workbook created by nelle mills
ISBN: 9781950807833
Age: 12+
Page Count: 192
Published: 2025
Za'Metria attended Perry Street Prep in Washington, DC when she authored her books. She is a Junior Staff at Reach. Za'Metria likes to make people laugh, and she is a very outgoing person.