Summer Author Visit at the Carpenter Art Garden

 The Carpenter Garden  is an outdoor creative space in the neighborhood of Binghamton in Memphis, TN. The location used to be known for drug and prostitution houses, but now it's literally been transformed to a place where children gather to create art, experience performances, and build relationships. All provided free for the children due to the generous donations of individuals and organizations.

Look at all these beautiful treasures surrounding me!

This summer, I had the privilege of being a guest author at the Carpenter Art Garden Summer Book Club. I was invited to read my book, “Keep Moving Forward, Henry!” and had the best time!

​I shared with the kids how my love for writing began and how we all have stories about our families, upbringing, culture, and experiences that we can write about.

In today's diverse and inclusive society, representation matters more than ever. For black children, meeting black authors can be an incredibly empowering and transformative experience. 

After I left the Carpenter's Garden, I was privileged, through my book, to allow the children to see themselves reflected in literature, validate their identities, and provide a platform for shared experiences and cultural understanding.  
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I came to the Garden to encourage the kids with the themes found in "Keep Moving Forward, Henry." Themes of perseverance, a positive mindset, and overcoming obstacles. What I didn't know or expect was how empowered I would feel by their love and acceptance. I came to encourage and in return, they encouraged and inspired me in my journey as a writer. 

We had an equal exchange, and it was beautiful.

Click here to learn more about how to get involved with the Carpenter Garden.