Black Boy Joy, Books, and Boldness

First, I want to state my inspirations for this blog:

1. Kiyonna Anthony, a young man who was accepted into Harvard at the age of 16! 
2. Caleb Green, a four-year old boy who read 100 books and his parents live streamed him reading these books in one day!
3. Trevor Noah interviewing Jason Reynolds!!!Yes!! If you do not know Jason Reynolds, look him and his books up!
4. Last but not least, Black Panther!! #WakandaForever  

Black Boy Joy was in full effect! 

Now, I am sure you could go on and on about some experiences that deserve the hashtag #blackboyjoy. It is a breath of fresh air to read a hashtag as such. There are times when black boys and black men are not given the credit of being great. So many times the media has shut them down and call them THUGS, a delinquent or an embarrassment to society. But they're so much more!!! You're a poet, an artist, a scientist, a professor, you can be it all! There is a song by Esperanza Spalding called Black Gold. The lyrics that stand out are

"Now maybe no one else has told you so

But you're golden, baby

Black Gold with a diamond soul

Think of all the strength you have in you

From the blood you carry within you

Ancient men, powerful men

Built us a civilization...." 

  That song has been on my playlist for a long time and I listen to it often. The lyrics are very powerful and have so much meaning. When I see the words black boy joy, I think of those words written by Spalding. I think of little boys and girls building a great civilization. So feed their minds with as many books as you can, build their library, and tell them that they are Black Gold!
These books are apart of Miss T's Black Boy Joy Collection and some of them you probably have seen a couple of times on my blog, some you haven't . Some of them are about historical figures, athletes, but most of them are just about a little black boy living in a world all his own. I like to see black boys embrace the simplicity of boyhood. Truthfully, I like seeing any boy experience that type of independence.

Be Bold and Build! The world is waiting!

Read it! Write it! Create it!

Review of Clever Carmel by Henrietta Nwagwu-Rochford and Author Interview

"Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going."-Rita Mae Brown

I  first want to tell the Author Henrietta Nwagwu-Rochford and her husband Carl Rochford thank you for giving me the opportunity to review Clever Carmel. This is my first time reviewing a book and interviewing an author outside of the United States, I am honored. When I first saw the cover of Clever Carmel, I was captivated by the little girl on the cover standing in the front of her parents. It shows Carmel embracing her identity and her love for football (soccer). One thing that Miss T’s Book Room tries to accomplish is to help children read books that show characters loving and accepting themselves. In the story and in real-life, Carmel's father is English and her mother is Nigerian. She has the clever idea of bringing both cultures together for a school assignment. As a teacher, I am impressed how Carmel uses this assignment to teach her classmates about her appreciation for her culture. Another plus is that her parents and family help her embrace the idea of making her own style for the World Cup school project!

Whether it be your children or your students, anyone can help a child embrace their identity, it is important for growth. One thing we need to realize is that we all come from different backgrounds, but that is what makes us unique. Diversity is a beautiful thing!

Lastly, I want to Thank Henrietta Nwagwu-Rochford for answering questions for Miss T’s Book Room. Please check out her answers below and check out the promotional video below for Clever Carmel!   

Tell us a little about yourself perhaps something not many people know?

My dream job would be to have my own chat show for TV and be the next Oprah Winfrey, interviewing interesting, inspirational, empowering and motivational people from around the world.

What made you want to write books for children? 

I initially wrote my book as a children’s cartoon series as I felt there was a lack of representation for biracial children and children of colour on TV. I then decided to turn it into a book as a thought the same problem exists within children’s literature.

What was your favorite book or books as a child? 

As a child, we read lots of the Biff and Chip Series in school which I enjoyed in primary school. My favorite book as a teenager was ‘Things Fall Apart’ by Chinua Achebe because it reminds me of growing up in a Nigerian household in the UK and outside influences threatening traditional Nigerian values. I found the book very relatable.

How did you get your ideas for this book? How did you prepare? 

The idea for ‘Clever Carmel’ came about when I and my husband were talking about who we would be supporting for the World Cup. I instantly said I was supporting Nigeria and my husband was supporting England, which left Carmel a bit confused, and she asked ‘so who should I support, mummy and daddy’ to which we replied that she could support both countries. I wanted the book to teach children to embrace all cultures from their heritage, which in our household is Nigerian culture and English culture including the food and music etc.

What do you plan on doing next in terms of children's literature? 

The book will be part of a series which will feature all of my four children and be based on topics which relate to our family life just ‘Clever Carmel’ was created. I hope my books will help children feel represented in children’s literature and feel more included as well as helping them embrace their cultural identity as well as other peoples.

What advice do you have for young people who want to be writers? 

Write as much as possible to develop your style. Remember no one can tell your story like you and go for it. Be determined and never give up.

Where can people buy your book? 

My book is available on most online stores including Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

What was one of the most surprising thing you learned in creating this book? 

How much hard work goes into creating a book and getting it to market and particularly marketing a book.

What were some of the challenges that you faced writing this book?

My biggest challenges writing the book were balancing all my responsibilities as a mum of four children, working as a nurse and presenting a radio show. It has been worth it and hopefully, I am inspiring my children to be hardworking and successful in achieving their dreams.

Girls on the Go! Review of Mystery of the Golden Temple (Pack-n-Go Girls)

Mystery of the Golden Temple is a part of the Pack-n-Go Girls Adventure Series, it embraces the idea of the “global girl” and the power of celebrating differences.  While reading and researching the Pack-n-Go Girls series, I am reminded of Nancy Drew, the Ramona books by Beverly Cleary, and The Babysitters Club books wrapped into one.  There is a sense of empowerment when girls are getting the job done! I am one of those girls that felt empowered when I read books similar to this one and the ones listed.


Mystery of the Golden Temple starts with Jess Johnson and her family at the airport. Unsure of the new venture, Jess is about to experience an exciting feat in a place called Thailand. Jess makes an everlasting friendship and learns so many new things. While reading this book, I discovered that Thailand is shaped like an elephant’s head and the elephant plays an important role in their history. I also learned about food from Thailand and popular dishes (check out the recipe in the book matter). I enjoyed reading the preview of Jess and Nong May’s next adventure after finishing Mystery of the Golden Temple. I am really anticipating the next journey from these two fun and smart girls! Thank you, Janelle Diller, Lisa Travis, and illustrator Adam Turner for helping young readers understand that culture and learning about different places is important and cool!

Websites for Pack-n-Go Girls http://www.janellediller.com/the-pack-n-go-girls-series/  and http://packngogirls.com/

These websites are great resources for the classroom and book clubs. It is awesome to learn about Geography, historical facts, and beautiful landmarks in a fun and exciting way. These books help girls to dream about the endless possibilities of traveling and friendship. Are you Ready for an Adventure?

Girls Run the World!

Christmas Book List For 2017, Self-Published Authors

While you're ordering those awesome toys, make sure you check out these great self-publish authors and their books! I have done a review for most of these books, so yes they're Miss T approved! Just click the pictures below to learn more!

http://www.decoreyhale.com/

Onyx McFly Saves the Day!-Book Review and Author Interview

Onyx McFly Saves Day! is not your ordinary “cute girl” story. The story is centered around the fact that there is a superhero in all of us. Onyx McFly is an eight-year-old with a hip personality and a hip boom box as her sidekick named Boom. Onyx McFly is visiting with a family member when suddenly there is an emergency and her quick thinking saves the day. Not to mention, I am loving the black girl magic! I can’t wait until this super girl has her own cartoon series (; Author Crystal Judkins not only demonstrates black girl magic, but she educates us on real-life superheroes in her book. In the last section of Onyx McFly Saves the Day, she honors some great women in history. She even educated me on some great women.

I am so glad the author of Onyx McFly Saves the Day, could sit down and answer a few questions. I can’t wait to give this book away as a giveaway and introduce little girls to Onyx McFly and her sidekick Boom!

Meet Author Crystal Judkins

Tell us a little about yourself perhaps something not many people know? 

My name is Crystal Judkins and I'm a self-published author and para educator from Alexandria, Virginia. I'm a poet, songwriter, an overall creative but I'm not as outgoing as people assume. I'm really more laid back and introverted. That's when I'm at my best creatively. 

What made you want to write books for children?

While being in education, I noticed the lack of diversity in children's literature and it always bothered me. After years of reading stories that my babies couldn't relate to, I decided that something needed to change. I wanted our children to be able to look at these pages and see themselves.

What was your favorite book or books as a child?

My favorite book was "Miss Nelson is Missing." I would read that over and over. It was just such a great concept. I also enjoyed the "Anasi the Spider" series. I was always a fan of fables/folktales and stories with great lessons. 

How did you get your ideas for this book. How did you prepare?

Honestly, her name was the first thing that came to mind.  I wanted something  hip and catchy but cute. Once I figured out her name, I thought about what I really wanted Onyx McFly to stand for. I decided she should be an unconventional superhero and just rolled with it. 

It was a very step by step process. I literally came up with Onyx's entire life before I even started writing. Character analysis if you will. Once I did that, the story pretty much flowed. I had an amazing time creating Onyx!

What do you plan on doing next in terms of children's literature?

I would love to keep releasing Onyx McFly books. I would also like to create other books for a variety of children's ages. My ultimate goal is to turn the Onyx McFly series into a cartoon. 

What advice do you have for young people who want to be writers?

Stay focused,  be creative and keep writing. It will happen! 

Where can people buy your book?

Right now it can be found on Amazon. I am currently working on a website so it will soon be available there also. 

What was one of the most surprising thing you learned in creating this book?

I was really shocked that I could write a very insightful and yet exciting children's book. I work with children but the majority of my writing is geared towards a more adult audience. I truly surprised myself. 

What were some of the challenges that you faced writing this book?

Trying to find the perfect illustrations to really fit the images I envisioned was probably the most difficult thing I had to face. Everything else pretty much fell into place.

Don't forget your Purple Cape!

Books that Speak the Truth: S.D. Nelson

"Laughter itself is a holy gift."-S.D. Nelson

Do you know S.D. Nelson? He is an Illustrator/Author and he lives in Flagstaff, Arizona. His splendid artwork of watercolors caught my attention after I saw his book Red Cloud on a blogger's page. Nelson's book Red Cloud: A Lakota Story of War and Surrender is about the great Lakota Chief Red Cloud. He was a controversial leader and deeply opposed white Expansion into Native American territory. However, this is not Nelson's first book about the great Lakota/Sioux leaders and warriors. His first book in this series was Sitting Bull: Lakota Warrior and Defender of his People. Sitting Bull was one of the greatest Lakota/Sioux warriors and chiefs. Sitting Bull directed his people against the U.S. Army and he was also in the forefront of battles like Killdeer Mountain and Little Bighorn. Another book in this series is Black Elk's Vision: A Lakota's Story, Black Elk was an Oglala-Lakota medicine man. At an early age, Black Elk was warned to beware of the "Wha-shi-choo" or white people. Black Elk held on to this vision to help his people.

The Star People: A Lakota Story, Greet the Dawn: The Lakota Way, Gift Horse: A Lakota Story, and Coyote Christmas: A Lakota Story,  are a few of the great books written and illustrated by S.D. Nelson that pay homage to the Lakota people. Moreover, I wanted to understand what would motivate S.D. Nelson to write great books and create awesome artwork about the Lakota people. S.D. Nelson is a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in the Dakotas. His people are known as the Sioux or Lakota. Nelson brings the history of these astounding people to life. I am impressed that S.D. Nelson is able to bring these important points of history to life.
Listen to learn more about S.D. Nelson below and check out my favorites by him!

Who do I Love? Book Review and Author Interview with Minister Sabrina Davidson

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 NIV

I learned about Minister Sabrina Davidson through Facebook. She was announcing her book signing for her first book Who do I Love?, in Opelika, Alabama. I have followed her journey as a minister, motivational speaker, teacher, and author. 

Minister Davidson wears many hats, but through it all, she still finds time to exhibit the love of God to others. The love of God is shown not only through her book, but her lifestyle. I am impressed by her community outreach programs, her inspirational speaking engagements, and letting God lead her purpose. 

Who do I Love? Shows children that someone will always love you. No matter how many times the world puts you down, what the world needs is love. A lot of children are returning to school for the new school year and making new friendships.  Let's teach love and show love so that we can help others live for a greater purpose. 

1 Corinthians 13:13 states, And now these three remain : faith, hope and love. BUT the greatest of these is love. 

I am so thankful that  Minister Sabrina Davidson took time out of her schedule to answer a few questions for Miss T's Book Room! 

Let's get to know the author of Who do I Love? Minister Sabrina Davidson 

Tell us a little about yourself perhaps something not many people know?  

I’m a simple girl who doesn’t shop a lot at all. I keep clothes for years.  There is no telling what blast from the past you may find in my closet. (LOL)

What made you want to write books for children? 

I taught grades 1st-3rd grade. I worked with a lot of students who were struggling readers. Even though it was a challenged and sometimes the parents, child, and I would feel overwhelmed, the end result would be so rewarding. Each year I would look forward to that feeling of joy I would get from seeing those who struggled pick up a book and read it with confidence.

How did you get your ideas for this book? How did you prepare? 

I was unable to continue teaching due to an illness.  I was ok with leaving because I knew I was unable to be the best teacher that I knew I could be, but when I got home it hit me hard that I was leaving something I dreamed of doing as a child.  I had a really bad day and couldn't sleep, I woke up at 3am, went to my kitchen table, and wrote the book with drawing and all in 30 minutes. The ideas came from God and I wrote it down.  I always ran and still run to my mom when I feel blue.  My daughters run to me the same way.  My daughters think their father can fix anything broken. Great teachers love their students regardless of their behavior.  Family and church members show love and support.  Most of All God loves us.  This message of love is painted throughout the book.  Later after the book was published, God shared with me that the message he wanted me to share during the readings and book signings was no matter the mistakes you make or how far away from home you stray, you can always come home where someone loves you.  The prodigal son Luke 15:11-32 is the scripture reference.

What do you plan on doing next in terms of children's literature? 

I have had so many things speak to me, and I have receive them, but I'm only going forth if God downloads it to me. God has given me activity lessons and several songs to add to the book. Who Do I Love? will be in homes and schools across the world. 

What advice do you have for young people who want to be writers? 

Let Christ guide your pen and trust His timing. Put your faith in Him and use your platform for His glory. DON’T Give Up!  

Where can people buy your book? 

www.sabrinadavidson.com and Facebook Sabrina Davidson’s Author Page.

What were some of the challenges that you faced writing this book? 

Writing the book was the easy part, but finding an illustrator who could capture the vision was a challenge. 

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating this book? 

Children beyond 2^nd grade are excited during the reading. Adults get teary eyed and say Ahhh. They say it gives off a warm feeling of joy and love.

Love More!!!