Black Educator with 22 Years of Service Launches Diversity Book Fair for Children of Color

[Valerie J Lewis Coleman]

Dayton, OH – June 29, 2024 – Valerie J. Lewis Coleman, a passionate advocate for diversity in children’s literature and a former educator of more than twenty years, hosts the highly anticipated When I See Me™ BIPOC Children’s Book Fair on Saturday, July 27, from 11 AM to 4 PM at the West Branch Library, 300 Abbey Avenue, Dayton, OH 45417. This vibrant event promises to be a delightful and enriching experience for children, parents, teachers, and child advocates.

Discover Diverse Stories and Authors

Featuring eighteen talented authors, the When I See Me™ BIPOC Children’s Book Fair will showcase books that highlight Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) characters, providing a mirror for children to see themselves in the stories they read. Our goal is to help children avoid the summer slide and foster a lifelong love for reading.

Exciting Activities and Giveaways

Thanks to our generous sponsors, children will enjoy a variety of exciting giveaways including Chick-Fil-A gift cards, drawstring bags, writing journals, sweet treats, and more! The book fair also offers interactive activities designed to engage and inspire young minds. A complete list of sponsors is available at Bit.ly/2024WISM.

A Book in Every Bag

We are thrilled to announce that donations to our A Book in Every Bag initiative have exceeded $3,300! This incredible support ensures that every child who attends the fair will leave with a book of their choice from one of our featured authors. Bit.ly/WhenISeeMe

Inspiring Panel Discussions

Aspiring children’s book authors won’t want to miss our engaging panel discussions! Learn from experts as they share insights, tips, and their personal journeys in writing and publishing children’s books. It’s a golden opportunity to get inspired and gain valuable knowledge from experienced professionals.

Join Us for a Day of Fun and Learning

The When I See Me™ BIPOC Children’s Book Fair is not just an event—it's a celebration of culture, diversity, and the joy of reading. Bring your family, friends, and students for a day filled with fun, learning, and community spirit.

For More Information

Visit our website: When I See Me. Support A Book in Every Bag: Donate Here

Follow us on Facebook.com/groups/WhenISeeMe for updates and sneak peeks of what’s in store!

About the Organizer

Valerie J. Lewis Coleman is a passionate advocate for diversity in children’s literature. As the author of the bestselling, award-winning children’s book Oh, The Things I Can Be When I See Me, she is committed to creating spaces where BIPOC voices are amplified and celebrated.

About When I See Me™ BIPOC Children’s Book Fair

The When I See Me™ BIPOC Children’s Book Fair aims to celebrate and promote diversity in children’s literature by showcasing the work of BIPOC authors and providing a platform for meaningful engagement with young readers and aspiring writers. Through author signings, interactive activities, and panel discussions, the event seeks to inspire a love for reading and writing while fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among BIPOC children and their communities. WhenISeeMe.com 

 

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