Jewel’s Curls: Being Me follows a four-year-old girl who notices the differences in appearance between herself and her parents. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

My inspiration was my childhood friendships of different races helped me to value others, and the importance of children of mixed race to value their inner beauty as much and accept their natural self-image to be unique and special.

The art in this book is fantastic, bringing Jewel’s emotions and struggles to life. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator K. Stone?

Each illustration I described to the illustratrator to bring to life relatable characters’ style, emotions, environment, and multicultural connection within families and societies in a fun social environment.

What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?

For parents to help their children to value themselves and self-image and to be okay with being different from other children.

Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Jewel and the direction of the second book?

My Jewel books are an emerging series of fun heartfelt relatable stories that will help children see themselves in the world as unique worthy and of great value and to show other children and people the same respect, as they continue to grow in their adventures in life to be their best selves in their own skin.

Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon