I
created The Shenanigans Series™ as a result of not being able to
find 'relevant,' challenging and thought provoking books for my two
children to read when they became of reading age. I also had a
difficult time finding books that featured African Americans in a
positive manner. All of the stories that I write are inspired by true
events, and although the stories are told with humor, they’re also
grounded in moral lessons. All of the stories that I write are
inspired by true events, and although the stories are told with humor,
they also grounded in a moral lessons.
Big
areas of concern of mine were statistics that revealed how Black
children are most affected by discouragingly low reading scores,
(compared to other ethnic groups). My son was a late reader and once he
became interested in reading it was difficult to find books that peaked
and kept him engaged. Ironically the ages of 9-11 are when many Black
boys loose interest in reading. I believe that my series will keep them
curious and motivated. It has been proven that children are often
attracted to books when the images on the cover reflect their own.
Each
book includes a spelling guide and questions for thought and discussion,
or for written responses, a tool that educators appreciate. –I hope
that you will explore and enjoy the series. -Jil