Books

AUTHOR Tara Demps Soyinka

"I knew from a young age that writing would figure largely into my personal and professional lives," says Tara Soyinka. Growing up in St. Petersburg, Florida, young Tara spent much of her time reading, writing and participating in oratorical contests. So it was no surprise when she selected English as her major at Florida A & M University. As a Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate fellow, she conducted a study on the self-concept of first-grade African-American children. As a Kindergarten teacher, and first-time published children's author, today, Tara is in a unique position to help shape children's self-images—inside the classroom and beyond. A mother of two, she says, "I am inspired by my children and all children of African descent to write enjoyable and quality literature that offers a positive reflection of themselves." Tara lives with her husband and young children in Atlanta, Georgia.

ALSO: Ms. Soyinka is available for school visits and book signings. E-mail her at [email protected]

...

NEATE Series
A Test For Tayesha

- A Conversation With Marimba Books Author Margo Sorenson
This month, Marimba Books releases Aloha for Carol Ann, a picture book about an eight-year-old who moves to Hawaii and struggles to feel at home in this new place until she discovers the true meaning of aloha, a Hawaiian term that means "hello," "welcome"...

- Author Mari Evans
A major figure in African American literature and the Black Arts Movement, Mari Evans is an educator, musician and writer who writes extensively about issues concerning the Black family and community. Her published work for children includes I...

- Author Wade Hudson
WADE HUDSON is the president and CEO of Just Us Books, Inc. an independent publishing company he founded with his wife, Cheryl Willis Hudson. His career as a writer spans more than three decades. After his involvement in the civil rights movement...

- Author Kelly Starling Lyons
The mission of Pittsburgh native Kelly Starling Lyons is to transform moments, memories and history into stories of discovery. She is the author of NEATE: Eddie’s Ordeal, a novel for middle readers, and CCBC Choices-honored picture book, One...

- What Are You Doing To Make A Difference?
With the upcoming presidential election, media attention, including the CNN special "Black in America," and numerous town hall meetings about the state of Black America etc., there is a lot of open discussion about the challenges we're facing in the...

Books