Reading is important because it makes your brain stronger and allows you to look at multiple
perspectives.

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Chloe - 5th grader

Reading is the key fundamental to achieving whatever your heart desires. I’m a witness to
how the books you’ve shared with me have put a twinkle in my grandson’s eyes.

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Dionne - Grandparent

It is imperative for students to have access to Black literature because representation
matters. Thanks to Arin’s book drive donation, I was able to expose my students to stories, problems
and characters that they could culturally identify with. Exposure to black literature fosters engagement
that makes black youth passionate about reading and confident in themselves.

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Olivia Smitherman - Educator

Having access to black literature is so important for my students. It enhances their experiences as early readers through the power of representation. It builds a stronger sense of confidence when they relate and make connections to the characters and storylines. It’s beautiful to hear statements like, “she looks like me,” and “I want to be like him,” when their eyes are met with culturally diverse visuals. If we want our children to read more, we must flood them with the books they’ll love.

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Akili Barnes - Educator