Why Didn't Anyone Teach Me This?
New Children's Books Share Essential Black History Every Child Should Know
Today is the day! Both books are out now. Order your copies of “I Am the Spirit of Justice” and “Stories of the Spirit of Justice”.
I remember learning history as a child in grade school.
We traced our hands to make turkeys for Thanksgiving.
We memorized that rhyme—“In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue,”
We learned one phrase from the Declaration of Independence—“All men are created equal…”
The story of America that I learned as a child was simple: a nation that started with great ideas just kept getting better.
Sure there were “little hiccups” like decimating the Native American population and enslaving millions of people for generations, but somehow the good people of the United States found a way to make progress.
But as I got older, I started to notice gaps.
Stories were missing. People were left out.
Now, as a parent or someone who loves the children in your life, you might be noticing these omissions, too.
Are your kids learning the whole story?
Do they know Black people had a history in Africa before slavery? Or that injustices like segregation did not just “go away”, and people struggle to make change happen? Do they know the names and stories of these change-makers?
Whatever the young people in your life maybe learning in the classroom, it’s ultimately up to us, the people who love them, to teach them a more racially inclusive history.
That’s exactly why I wrote I Am the Spirit of Justice and Stories of the Spirit of Justice.
These books are designed to fill the gaps, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire the next generation of change-makers.
"I Am the Spirit of Justice" (Picture book for ages 4-7)
Raises Kids with a Justice Mindset: This book introduces even the youngest children to the core concepts of fairness and equality, helping them grow up with a lifelong commitment to justice.
Inspires Empathy and Kindness: It helps little ones understand the experiences of others, stirring a sense of compassion and a desire to make the world a better place.
Starts Important Conversations Early: The books provides a gentle and engaging way to begin discussions about race and justice with young children, ensuring they grow up with a strong sense of identity and justice.
"Stories of the Spirit of Justice" (For kids ages 8-12)
Empowers Tweens to be Changemakers: Dives deeper into Black history, inspiring young people to become active participants in creating a more just and equitable world.
Develops Critical Thinking Skills: Encourages middle schoolers to analyze historical events and consider true historical scenarios, equipping them to navigate complex issues.
Provides Role Models of Courage and Resilience: Showcases inspiring individuals in short 3-page profiles who embody the "Spirit of Justice," demonstrating that ordinary people can make a difference.
I Am the Spirit of Justice and Stories of the Spirit of Justice are more than books—they’re a call to inspire, teach, and empower kids to live out justice every day.
These books are tools to help us ensure our children don’t grow up with the same unanswered questions we had.
Together, we can fill in the missing pieces, teaching kids not only the history they need to know but also the values of justice, empathy, and courage that will shape a better future.
Let’s give them the full story—starting today.
Who are you getting these books for? Let us know in the comments!
I don’t know if it’s appropriate in this space, but here goes. I am an old white woman who volunteers with an after school program for middle schoolers, the majority of whom are black. I would like to gift each young person (there are 19) with a copy of “Stories of Justice”. Sadly, I just can’t afford the $400+ to do this. Is there, perhaps, a bulk rate that would make the purchase affordable for me? I have read both “Color of Compromise” and “Spirit of Justice”, and I thank you for writing them. Every young person ought to be able to benefit from your scholarship, so I hope we can find a way where there is no way.
Received my copy today and I cannot wait to read it to my 19 kindergartners tomorrow! Thank you for fighting the good fight and giving the rest of us tools to use ♥️