Powerful Book: “The Light She Feels Inside” by Gwendolyn Wallace
We are thrilled to introduce and support the remarkable new picture book, The Light She Feels Inside, authored by the talented Gwendolyn Wallace. Set to be released in October 2023, this radical and empowering work encourages children to embrace their most immense feelings and draws inspiration from the legacy of Black female changemakers of the past.
A Sanctuary in Words: Celebrating the Library and Black Writers
Amidst a time when libraries need our support more than ever, “The Light She Feels Inside” illuminates the library as a sanctuary, and the Black writers found within, as beacons of hope for every child who aspires to make the world a better place.
In 2020, Gwendolyn Wallace found solace in reading essays and books by Black women changemakers as she navigated her own emotions. She reflects, “One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my life is that often, love and anger come from the same place. And that’s what leads to social change.”
Guided by History, Embracing Change
“The Light She Feels Inside” introduces readers to Maya, a perceptive Black girl who grapples with her feelings about the world. Through the guidance of a kind librarian, Maya discovers the powerful impact of revolutionary Black women throughout history who harnessed their love and anger to enact change in their communities. These courageous activists inspire Maya to rally her family and friends, and together, they devise plans to uplift their neighborhood. How will Maya light up the world? By honoring her glowing feelings, just like the courageous Black women who preceded her!
Maya experiences a warm glow when she picks strawberries in the community garden, hears music in her neighborhood, or spends cherished moments with her loved ones. Yet, she also feels a different kind of glow when she faces adversity – witnessing injustices, family concerns, and societal struggles – leaving her burdened by emotions that seem overwhelming.
A Journey of Empowerment and Inspiration
However, Maya learns that she is not alone in experiencing these glowing emotions. Drawing inspiration from Black women such as Ida B. Wells, Nina Simone, June Jordan, and her own ancestors, she discovers a path towards positive change. The glowing light inside Maya becomes a vital part of her identity, and she embraces it as she endeavors to create a brighter world.
“The Light She Feels Inside” is a book that:
- Empowers Black girls to recognize themselves as part of a lineage of strong women in history and their own ancestry!
- Highlights the achievements of inspirational Black women, contributing to Black, Women’s, and LGBTQ histories, making it an ideal resource for educators, librarians, and parents alike!
- Is part of the Sourcebooks initiative, launched in the summer of 2020, to invite diverse voices to submit directly to editors, fostering inclusivity within the industry and promoting a richer diversity of stories.
Prepare to be captivated by the luminous journey of Maya and her transformative realization of the power within. “The Light She Feels Inside” promises to be a beacon of inspiration for readers of all ages, celebrating the extraordinary legacy of Black women and their indomitable spirit of change. Stay tuned for its release in October 2023!
About the Author Gwendolyn Wallace
Gwendolyn Wallace was born and raised in Connecticut and graduated in 2021 from Yale University. Her first picture book, Joy Takes Root, came out in June 2023. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public history from University College London. She can usually be found gardening, exploring used bookstores, or listening to the radical impulses of young children.
About the Illustrator Olivia Duchess
Olivia Duchess studied Graphic Communication and Design at the University of Leeds and now illustrates books for children. She was a Shortlisted Illustrator for the 2020 World Illustration Awards, and was shortlisted and an honorable mention for the FAB Prize 2017-2020. She lives in London.
The Light She Feels Inside
Publication Date: October 3, 2023
Author: Gwendolyn Wallace
Illustrator: Olivia Duchess
ISBN: HC: 9781728239798
Price: HC: $18.99
Tweet
About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
Related Posts
LaVon Lewis: Inspiring Healing and Growth with “You’ve Been Betrayed, So What Now?” →
Empowering Women in “The Middle East” Through Music – “HUNNA” Initiative | MDLBEAST →
B.O.S.S. Vault’s All-Female Panel Shatters Stereotypes and Promotes Collaboration →
