Autumn’s Winter Book News
"Hope is a discipline" -Mariame Kaba
Dear friends,
As days become months of the horrific siege on Gaza, it is difficult not to succumb to despair due to feelings of helplessness and guilt. I have been reminded that if I value life and want freedom, safety and joy for others, I should take advantage of every moment of safety and peace that I have. And so, somehow, we continue our work, while speaking up daily against injustice. Here are some of the recent events that helped me stay hopeful and grateful and reminded me that our work has meaning.
The Public Library
Seeing my own book in the public library, all wrapped in protective plastic, labeled, stamped and ready for borrowing! The only thing nicer than seeing my book in the library is seeing when it’s unavailable because it’s been checked out.
Muslim Storytellers’ Fellowship Crash Course in Children’s Publishing, Highlights Foundation
As lead instructor, I gave over 40 Muslim storytellers an introduction to children’s publishing, sharing the information and experience I’ve gained as a critic, writer and editor. Having participated in the first cohort of Muslim Fellows at Highlights, I know how vital this community is and feel honored to play a role in nurturing another group of up and coming creatives.
Kweli pre-conference event at Ballet Hispanico, NYC, October 21
Laura Pegram, visionary leader of Kweli, organized a beautiful multimedia event celebrating my debut novel, All You Have to Do, and Jacqueline Woodson’s latest, Remember Us, with Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz moderating and dancer Mia Bermudez interpreting the stories in dance segments choreographed by Rodney Hamilton. It was truly a night to remember.
Highlights Whole Novel Workshop, Highlights Foundation, PA
I signed up for the Whole Novel Workshop mainly to impose a deadline on myself for my full manuscript draft, but I gained so much more. Author Janae Marks read my draft and gave valuable feedback. And taking a week off to focus on writing and rest always nurtures the creative spirit.
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and ALAN, Columbus OH
At NCTE, I spoke on panels with fellow authors I admire, made new friends, had important conversations, signed books, spent time in community, and attended some workshops to inspire my own teaching. Meeting teachers who are eager to bring our stories to their students gave me hope, and hearing other writers speak about their purpose was inspiring.
Institute for Racial Equity in Literacy, Boston MA
Last week, I was honored to be included on a panel at the amazing IREL, a conference led by the esteemed educators Dr. Sonja Cherry-Paul and Tricia Ebarvia. With the brilliant Dr. Kim Parker of DisruptTexts moderating, we talked about inspiration, identity, purpose, resistance, and freedom, and it was lovely.
Closing out 2023
The end of the year can be difficult for writers. With “best-of” book lists circulating and book awards announced, it is easy to feel disappointed every time your book is not chosen. I am grateful for the recognition All You Have to Do has received.
Texas TAYSHAS Reading List for 2024, which aims to motivate young adults to become lifelong readers.
#2 bestselling book of 2023 at Frugal Bookstore, our local, Black-owned bookstore in Roxbury, MA.
Awards season isn’t over, but I’m not holding my breath. As long as people continue to read my work and it opens minds and hearts, I’ve achieved my goal.
Stay informed of my upcoming events on my newly designed website, and please check out these books from my debut authors group!
The Order of Things, a novel in verse by Kaija Langley
Tagging Freedom, by Rhonda Roumani
Control Freaks, by JE Thomas
Fatima Tate Takes the Cake, by Khadijah VanBrakle
I will continue praying for peace and demanding justice, and I hope you will join me in holding our leaders accountable for their role in facilitating safety and freedom for all. Let’s stay determined and hopeful.
Wishing you and our world all good things in 2024.
In peace and solidarity,
Autumn
“To practice any art, no matter how well or how badly, is a way to make your soul grow. So do it.” - Kurt Vonnegut