Diverse Stories Matter: Bring This Children's Book To Life
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I am beyond grateful for so many things, but one of my proudest accomplishments is the impact of my bestselling first children's book, I SEE ME. This book has touched lives worldwide—from Africa to Europe, Australia, Asia, and North America—selling thousands of copies and teaching children the importance of self-love, representation, and embracing their authentic selves. It’s heartwarming to see children light up when they find characters who look like them and share their experiences. Representation in children's books is vital because when kids see themselves reflected in the stories they read, they know they belong, that their dreams matter, and that they can conquer the world.
Unfortunately, the statistics tell a sobering story. A recent study found that over 40% of children's books feature white characters, while only 12% include Black protagonists, 9% feature Asian characters, and a mere 6% include Latinx representation. Even fewer books highlight children of mixed heritage or Indigenous backgrounds. To make matters worse, animals appear as main characters more often than kids of color. This glaring lack of diversity means millions of children grow up without seeing themselves in the stories they read, missing out on the validation and empowerment they deserve.
Therefore, the journey can’t stop here. I’m thrilled to announce my next project: There Is a Monster in the Sink—a vibrant, imaginative, and empowering new children's picture book that tackles the themes of overcoming fear and pursuing your dreams. The story delivers a simple yet powerful message: fear is natural, but with bravery, curiosity, and determination, you can overcome it and move toward your dreams. This lesson is designed to inspire children to face their challenges, big or small, and see the world not as a place of limitations but of endless possibilities.
What sets There Is a Monster in the Sink apart is its focus on representation. Featuring diverse characters and a story that reflects the fears and triumphs of children from all backgrounds, it is a celebration of inclusion and empowerment. Hilarious rhymes and vivid illustrations bring the story to life, creating a magical and educational experience that kids will treasure and lessons they will carry with them forever.
However, creating a high-quality children's book is costly. From hiring professional illustrators to editing, printing, and marketing, the expenses to produce a book that truly shines can easily reach several thousand dollars. By contributing to this campaign, you’re not just helping bring There Is a Monster in the Sink to life—you’re joining a movement to create diverse, inclusive stories that empower children around the globe to dream big, feel seen, and face their fears.
Let’s work together to create a world where every child feels represented and valued. Your support—no matter the size—will help bring this vision to life. Together, we can inspire the next generation to live boldly, overcome their fears, and believe in themselves. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Let’s make a difference, one story at a time.
Donate today and help bring this magical, empowering story to life!
Organizer
Justin Ford
Organizer
Phoenix, AZ