Book Birthday Blog with Tara Michener

 

Welcome to SCBWI-MI's Book Birthday Blog!

Where we celebrate new books from Michigan's authors, illustrators and translators.

 

Congratulations to Tara Michener on the release of I Am Not My Meltdown

 

 

How did you come up with the idea for your book?

I am constantly talking to kids and adults about meltdowns in my everyday life. As a mental health therapist that seeks to bring healing and understanding to the lives of families it is important to normalize that sometimes we may have issues with behavior. I find that telling stories is the best way to communicate and educate while entertaining this is how I came up the idea behind I Am Not My Meltdown.

What inspires you to write? 

My surroundings inspire me to write. I see children that seek both representation and validation. I see teachers and librarians looking for resources that will serve their communities and I understand that it is important to write what you know in order to make a difference. 

What is something you hope your readers will take away from your book? 

I hope that my readers will see themselves in this book and find hope and understanding. My goal is to create opportunities to build both empathy and emotional regulation while being entertained and soothed.

What was the most difficult part of writing the book? 

I did not see any difficulty in creating this narrative. I am constantly asked how to help young people with their emotions and this was the perfect way to answer and uplift so in some ways the difficulty lies in it being overdue. 

What's next for you and where can we find your book? 

I am working on more literary works and programs that create pathways for children to understand their feelings and to gain healthy information in regards to coping. My book is available wherever books are sold.

More about the book . . .

Melt-downs are common but solutions are too. This book serves as a pathway to educate and entertain. Kids sometimes feel like they are a problem because they are having a problem...in I Am Not My Meltdown feelings are normalized and solutions for regulation are introduced to kids so at the earliest level they can understand how to cope.

Publisher: Author House

More about the author . . . 

Tara Michener is the author of 8 children's books that are focused on social-emotional development. Her time is divided between writing and operating her counseling private practice which also serves as a hub for wellness, yoga and outreach programs for schools and organizations. She loves junk journaling, educating on mental health and Twizzlers and Diet Coke. Her favorite people are her hubistrator, Jason Michener and her son Cannon. She lives in Michigan where the apples are delicious and the winters are cold.

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tara.michener?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taramichener/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tara.michener/

 

 

On the Shelf by Tara Michener: Sierra Blue by Suzanne Morgan Williams and Kindness Is by Kaitlin Johnstone

Two reviews today!

Sierra Blue is enthralling, captivating and very well written. Suzanne Morgan Williams penned an incredible novel for the young adult reader this fall. 

When you think of magic what do you think about? I can tell you that thanks to this book I think of a strong and courageous character that does her best as she navigates being different from everyone around her. 

Tara holding Sierra Blue

My On the Shelf series embraces mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors, and the main character, Magic, gives us all of these avenues wrapped in one heroine. Magic simply does not fit in...for many reasons...oddly colored hair, being from a different town but also...she sees things that other people cannot see. Her gift is both a blessing and a curse for her because in order for her to use her talent she has to expose it, and this draws attention that does not always land in her favor. Her struggles include many of the typical things that young people face...being bullied, wanting to be kissed and coping with uncertainty about friendships. She also has the added dilemma of keeping her special abilities under wraps in order to protect herself from ridicule and judgement. This is not an easy balance and her love for animals and a special horse invites her to wrestle with what is best...being silent or being secure enough to speak up for the most vulnerable amongst us. 

The lessons in this book are endless, and I enjoyed reading it with my family and talking about what we would do in different scenarios. I invite you to read it and I am curious to know after you read it what you think. I am sure that Suzanne Morgan Williams is curious as well...so please be sure to review on Amazon and Goodreads.  

I met Kaitlin Johnstone through Instagram about a year ago and I have been enamored by her ability to connect readers to authors. She makes sure that she gives focus to those of us who showcase windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors. Kaitlin owns a small business dedicated to putting books into the hands of children and she has accomplished this through a business that has soft and beautiful t-shirts and apparel. Her merchandise has slogans, affirmations, and calls to action that remind us to be kind but to be vigilant. This fall Kaitlin became an author herself. 

I was very happy to be amongst the first to read...

  Kindness Is... 

This adorable picture book reminds and educates readers on the beauty of being kind. The pages are filled with opportunities for readers to witness a young girl who is finding her own way and understanding what it means to be inclusive and welcoming. I love that the book allows us to see the dynamic of parent and child in regards to the topic of kindness. Kaitlin has continued her legacy of lifting up amazing authors and now it is our time to lift her up as she enters this world of writing and gives us 1000 more reasons to be kind. This is a great book for the young reader and should be in every class, library, and counseling office. 

On the Shelf is a regular feature by Tara Michener, highlighting books and authors that allow readers to both learn about cultures and people different than them but also to embrace the importance of representation and for each reader to have the opportunity to see themselves showcased in books as well.

Tara Michener is the author of seven children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity, and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist, and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the former Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon, and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

Book Birthday Blog with Tara Michener

 

Welcome to SCBWI-MI's Book Birthday Blog!

Where we celebrate new books from Michigan's authors, illustrators and translators.

 

Congratulations to Tara Michener on the release of My Good Grief Guide: 100 Ways to Cope With Grief When You're Not a Grown-up

 

How did you come up with the idea for your book?

Grief is something that is universal to us all. As a Licensed Professional Counselor I meet so many families that have a hard time navigating solutions to the stages and needed coping skills that kids face when they embark upon loss. I can connect with this topic both personally and professionally.

What is something you hope your readers will take away from your book? 

I hope that this book is helpful on the family bookshelf but also in therapists' offices, school libraries and in the classroom. I hope this book feels like a trusted source to aid them through the many emotions that loss brings.

What inspires you to write?

I am inspired by the kids that I see each day both at my own home but also in the schools. I want to make sure that my readers know that they are inspiring and motivating and I create books that I feel can relate to them.

You keep a busy schedule with your business and providing leadership to various organizations. How do you find the time to write and how do you stay organized?

I say no to what I need to say no to (even when it is hard) I say yes to what I need to say yes to (even when it is hard) I really give a lot of thought to my actions, needs and responsibilities.

What are your marketing plans for the book and where can we find it?

This book can be located anywhere that books are sold! I don't typically give away my marketing strategy but I am grateful for those who help to promote it on their socials, podcasts, etc.

More about the book . . .

Grief is hard especially when you are not a grownup! This book is a guide to help young people heal, navigate and connect with the grief journey in a way that focuses on healthy coping skills and engagement.  

Publisher: AuthorHouse

More about the author . . .

Tara Michener is a mental health therapist, author and global speaker. Her work and projects have been featured in Publisher's Weekly, Prevention Magazine, FREEP, Essence Magazine and more.

Join Me On LinkedIn

Watch Me at TEDx 

Instagram 

Twitter: @TaraMichener

Facebook: Michener Associates Counseling Center

 

Meeting Derrick Barnes by Tara Michener

 

I had the amazing opportunity to be a featured author at the same event series as Award-Winning Author, Derrick Barnes. Derrick was the keynote speaker for the opening Gala and when he met the podium he met the audience where they were at and then helped them to meet him where he had been.

Derrick gave the room so many important life lessons from his own experience as a father, author and spouse. He talked about his journey and how his own son inspired him to write what he knows and how this was the turning point for him. I watched my own son who was in attendance enamored by his reading of I Am Every Good Thing. His face expressive and empowered as he looked to the man who is now one of his favorite authors.

Derrick Barnes and Tara Michener

Once the room was able to disperse and meet and greet, Derrick had a line of people eager to find out more and to have their books signed, not only because a signed book is awesome, but also as a way to preserve the message that he shared that night. I smiled because my son does not run up to every author...he does not share personal stories with every speaker and at nine years old he has now decided to take his time warming up a bit more than he used to. This was different. He had met someone who he felt understood him. It was obvious that Derrick had this effect on many people in the room that night. His energy was magnetic and people of all ages flocked to him with the same excitement that my child did.

I always talk about Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's framework of mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors and this was a moment where I got to witness this concept leap off of the pages of the books, onto the stage and back to his table where he kindly joked and talked to me and so many other authors and guests.

That night my son read all of the books that he received from the Gala. The next morning was filled with his thoughts about what he read the night before when he should have been sleeping. 

The author event continued the next day at a Book Festival. Guests purchased written stories of the authors present at the festival as they connected over verbal stories they heard while getting their books signed. I was able to add one more book from Derrick to my collection to gift to a young neighbor. I also got to gain more insight about Derrick’s journey as an author. He was gracious enough to allow me to feature him for this segment and also interview him.

Readers, the conversation was filled with so many nuggets that can help people in many stages of life. I am including some that stood out but I promise you there are many more insights to gain from this talented and inspiring author. Derrick shared that once Crown: Ode to the Fresh Cut was published that his career changed in an incredible way. He wrote for many years but this particular book that showcased his authenticity, his activism and his love for his target audience resonated in a way that opened up the door to a larger stage and more award recognition, opportunities and honors. I enjoyed listening to Derrick talking about the importance of speaking his truth as an author and being free to write what is real, what resonates for his intended audience and what brings about perspective sharing in a way that both educates and acknowledges topics that need to be highlighted. He talked about the need to reach Black people and how his books bring people together.

I asked Derrick:  

What advice would you give to writers who feel underappreciated?

He said that pinpointing your target audience and focusing on them is the way to go. He mentioned that these are the people who will lift you up no matter what. He went on to say that the writing should speak directly to them because they are the ones purchasing your books. He discussed the need for writers to figure out if they want to write books or have a career as a writer and how those things are not exactly the same. He spoke about the need for writers to work on their craft.

I was especially impressed when I asked Derrick about his remedies for writer’s block and he shared that he never has writer’s block. He went on to say that it all comes back to focus. He said he never goes a day without writing and if he has time to write-he writes.

When we talked about legacy he mentioned that he may want to teach as an English Professor. His focus is getting people to think outside of the box and leave behind books that move the needle. He wants people to recognize that he is not like anybody else as they consider his legacy. He wants to continue to put more books into the world that covers social issues and give the readers an opportunity to enjoy more realistic fiction from him. He understands that he will be judged on his catalog and he wants to be remembered as one of the best children’s book authors of his time.

He wants to inspire others to do the same.

This led me to asking him who he is inspired by.

He shared that some of the writers and poets that inspire him include Renee Watson, Erin Entrada Kelly, Jerry Craft, Clint Smith, and Jessica Care Moore.  Please visit Derrick Barnes website at https://derrickdbarnes.com/books/ to learn more about his awards, his books and his upcoming events and titles. I promise that you will be inspired.

 

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

 

 

 

 

 

On the Shelf by Tara Michener: Super Cities: Detroit! by Daralynn Walker

If you have ever had questions, wonderings, or any curiosity about Detroit...Daralynn Walker has granted you your wish. In her book, Super Cities: Detroit! she unearths so many details about the city that garner the reader's attention and cures their curiosity. My 9-year-old son actually grabbed the book before I could read it for review because it was that interesting. 

The concept of mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors is how I decide if a book is good for the On The Shelf segment. This book provides all of these. A mirror (especially for those who live in Michigan), there is something truly special for a child to learn specifics about their favorite pizza, car parades, and culture. It is also a window, because even if a detail is familiar in this book, you may easily learn an unknown fact about Detroit that you never knew even if you grew up in the area. This book is a fantastic sliding glass door, allowing all who read it to enter the magic of Detroit as a Super City. 

This book is positive, educational, and fun. I think that it is perfect for all libraries, especially school media centers, and I plan on getting my media specialist her own copy as a treat. Daralynn has truly given us a gem in this book and I hope that you see it this way too. 

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

On the Shelf by Tara Michener: Property of the Rebel Librarian by Allison Varnes

What makes a good kid a good kid? 

In Property of the Rebel Librarian, June Harper is considered a good kid by many parents, educators, and most adults because of her propensity for obedience and having a clean record, never getting into any type of trouble. This all changes when her parents discover that she has a book in her possession that they consider too scary. When her parents find out the book came from her middle school the plot thickens and fast forwards into many layers that many people can relate to today. 

This book brings up the aforementioned question of what makes a good kid good? Does it mean that they are quiet? Does it mean that they are compliant? Does it mean that they don't speak up even when they want to be heard and create dialogue? 

June was faced with so many opinions, and all of this impacted her ability to participate in her favorite hobby...reading books. 

A love of literacy can teach us to think critically, to discern our own convictions, and to question. In this phenomenal book by Dr. Allison Varnes, we see the presenting problem begin with the "scary" book, but it does not end there. What can I tell you, Reader, without spoiling the plot? I can tell you that this is a must read. It describes the powerlessness that many young people feel when they cannot voice their concerns and choose their own books due to factors that may be arbitrary. 

This book creates the opportunity for discussion on who should decide what a child reads. I think it is timely, especially during Banned Book Week.      

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

Banned Books Week 2022 by Tara Michener

Books are works of art that teach, entertain, train, and enlighten. I always think about the significance of the books that encouraged as a young person. I especially appreciated learning about the relevance of culture for myself and for people who are different than me.

I recently was able to share the signed collection of Jerry Craft's New Kid and Class Act with my son. We read them together as a family. I was able to talk with Jerry last year and get them signed so I had been holding off on giving my son these books until his birthday. He loved seeing the special illustrations and the thoughtfulness that Jerry used in writing his special autographed inscription with my son's name on it. Jerry drew a graphic of one of his characters and the first thing that my son said when he saw it was...

"It is me!"  

When kids see themselves mirrored in books (especially kids that do not see themselves as main characters and heroes as much), it makes their experience more than special. It adds validation, it reminds them of possibility, and it clarifies that they are worthy of being highlighted. 

When I found out that these books were banned by some school districts, I scratched my head and sighed. I wondered why someone would try and take away the opportunity to read about these amazing characters. 

Banning books stops readers from having the opportunity to partake in stories that might enlighten them and it gives too much power to those who arbitrarily decide that they know best for all readers. None of us are exactly the same...this means that it is okay if we have different taste in books. 

Banned Books Week 2022 is September 18 – 24.

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

On the Shelf by Tara Michener: Little Cat Feels Left Out by Dori Durbin

Have you ever had a friend...find another friend...and then you wonder if you are still your friend's friend? Dori Durbin recognizes that many children encounter this scenario. Friendship can be viewed as one of the most special bonds that humans get to experience but the heart break of uncertainty when a child feels like that friendship is in jeopardy is a lot for a kid to bear. In Little Cat Feels Left Out this topic gives young people a mirror to see their own insecurities about losing a friend, measuring up, and figuring out how to resolve frustrations related to the dynamics of being friends. 

So many of us know what it is like to be the last one chosen to be on a team or to not be chosen at all, and this book gives a nice lesson on coping but also identifying with concepts like jealousy, insecurity, and more. I talked to Dori and she is dedicated to making sure that her books provide a way for kids to get reassured but also soothed by seeing examples that they may go through on a daily basis. Let's face it...kids are told to go and make friends but they are not always told how to make friends. They also are not always told how to keep a friend if something goes wrong. Dori Durbin writes books that help young people to understand social skills and the struggles that can come with playground squabbles and misunderstandings. I enjoyed reading this book with my son and talking through how friendships can shift when a friend finds another friend. I would suggest this as a classroom read, a bedtime story, and it has found a nice home on my own shelf. This is a very timely text for back to school and teacher gifts.  

Dori Durbin and Tara Michener
holding each other's books

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

Webinar this Sunday

 Sharing an important and affordable webinar by Tara Michener this Sunday, Aug. 14, at 3:00 PM!

This Community-Wide Webinar focuses on the benefits of Multicultural author visits, the opportunities for authors, illustrators, and educators, and the student community at large. Tara Michener will talk about the concept of windows and mirrors from the scope of representation and social-emotional learning. This featured program is designed to help the participants think outside the box and create inclusive and meaningful ways to engage readers and creators.

 Join Us for SCBWI MI's School Visit Webinar with Tara Michener
Register today for How To Make Your School Visits More Multicultural

Bio: Tara is the author of six books from early readers to young adult that emphasize social-emotional learning, diversity, and self-esteem. Tara is a TEDx Speaker, Lecturer and has created curriculum, presentations, and content for various organizations, including Library of Michigan, Princeton Prize in Race Relations, and more. Tara is a board-certified licensed professional counselor and is licensed in Michigan, New Jersey, and Wisconsin. She has been awarded Diversity Champion by CORP! Magazine twice and has been deemed Young Alumni of the Year from Oakland University and Madonna University.

On the Shelf by Tara Michener: With You Wherever You Go by Martine Foreman

With You Wherever You Go by Martine Foreman
illustrated by QBN Studios (One Nine Press)

When I was a kid I used to pretend that I had my own school. I took this very seriously...I had my own chalkboard and everything, and my stuffed animals were my dedicated students. I did not want school to be a place that was filled with drudgery and pain...I wanted kids to be able to feel free. I made up a concept called feelings class. This was a place where kids could express themselves and know that they would be heard and valued. 

With You Wherever You Go is a book written by Martine Foreman that recognizes the emotions that children feel, and she strives to help them connect to faith as an answer to some of the harder questions.

When we look at "On the Shelf" it is so vital to see that every child should be able to see a book that resonates and helps, and in this book the need for comfort and safety is addressed as well as the reminder that they are not alone. This book addresses the tough times that many of us face and it also reassures and gives guidance that is centered in a higher power. It is important to note that the themes are clearly aligned with religion as a source of coping and compassion. The book features characters of a variety of skin tones and races and includes colorful imagery. I am pretty sure that a younger Tara would have been eager to read this to herself and her stuffed animals for feelings class.    

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

On the Shelf by Tara Michener: Say It Out Loud by Allison Varnes

Speak up. Use your words. Express yourself. 

These suggestions might sound easier than they are. This is especially true if you are a middle school student who has been bullied because the bullies believe that you told on them. This might be even harder if you try your best not to use your words very often because you stutter. 

Allison Varnes does a delightful job of taking us on a journey of a young girl, giving readers an inside look at what it is like when speech does not come easy. 

When we talk about the concept of windows and mirrors, we don’t always talk about talk. Talking is sometimes a privilege that is assumed. This book gives a really good glimpse of the pressure that a student can face when they are caught off guard and expected to speak or the shame that can threaten when there is a need for a teacher to assist. 

Say It Out Loud (Random House, 2021) covers the value in speaking up for others as well as understanding that we don’t all speak the same, but our words make the biggest difference. I implore you to not only get it for a person who loves middle grade lit but also for an educator who works with children. 

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

Juneteenth by Tara Michener

Imagine a life of being enslaved, brutalized, pained and oppressed. 

Did you take a moment to do that? If you did not...I ask you to take a moment-really-right now. 

What images did you see? What did you feel? How would you describe this to someone who could not understand? 

Now, I want you to imagine finding out that you are considered free...you are informed that actually you were free two years ago but "technical difficulties" prevented you from learning this. 

What you might learn as you imagine this is that the pain of the last two years did not have to happen but it did. You know that it is June 19th because the person who read the words to you that proclaimed freedom also proclaimed the date of your independence. You now get to imagine what freedom looks like. You get to imagine it...upon hearing that it is yours.  

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom of Black Americans that were the last to be notified in Galveston, Texas that they no longer were enslaved. 

What books would you read to tell the story of this milestone and historical event? 

Let me ask you this...what book would you write? As you imagined yourself in that situation what imagery do you feel like would stand out in a children's book? What would those pages do to inspire triumph? 

It is very vital to tell history as history happened. Children can be educated by books, yet it is important that they are not misled about true history. Juneteenth is not new in any way, yet there are not a plethora of books about it. 

I am hoping that with the addition of the federal holiday there are more opportunities for kids to be engaged by kid lit that reflects many compelling stories both fiction and non-fiction. These stories need to be shared...if you cannot be the one that writes them, be the one who finds the books about this important day and donate them. The people of Galveston had their future withheld for an additional two years. Let's make sure that the stories of their history are no longer delayed. 

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

On the Shelf by Tara Michener: How It Happens by Jean Alicia Elster

Jean Alicia Elster invites the reader into her own historical journey that is profound, educational, and inspirational. Jean has the ability to give the page turner the opportunity to get to know several characters and the many challenges they faced up close and personally.

 I am touched by the dialogue, because for me this story is both a window and a mirror. I recognized some familiar mentions when it came to Michigan landmarks and institutions and found a mirror in some of the background that I could relate to but I also found a window in understanding more about customs and traditions that I was not privy to even in my own state of origin. I found this read an honor to be able to review as the details are passed down with care like that of a special wedding dress or heirloom. 

Jean Alicia Elster

This book gives us the privilege of being able to follow a narrative beginning with Addie Jackson and ending with a promise that the story continues as I write these words. We are in Women's History Month. We are in March is Reading Month. This is a fantastic book to celebrate both. The content is YA so not for the younger ones but perfect for anyone else. 

On the Shelf is a monthly feature by E&I Chair, Tara Michener, highlighting books and authors that allow readers to both learn about cultures and people different than them but also to embrace the importance of representation and for each reader to have the opportunity to see themselves showcased in books as well.

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

Black History: A Celebration of Americans by Tara Michener

February is Black History Month! This tradition began in 1926 in America it was started as Negro History Week and was founded by Carter G. Woodson. The week developed into a month long recognition and in 1976 it was reinvented as Black History Month. This is a time to focus on the contributions, inventions, and efforts that have been lead by people of African-American Descent. Black Americans have contributed in great ways to our world but unfortunately because of historical and traumatic obstacles like slavery, Jim Crow, and other oppressive measures, many people have not been acknowledged for their work or they have had others take credit for it. As authors and illustrators, how can we make a difference in 2022? We can collectively make a difference by reading books by Black writers and illustrators and buying them for educators, students, and families. We can donate these works to local libraries and organizations to make sure that they get more eyes on them to be seen and more ears on them to be heard. It is a great idea to think of Black authors and illustrators when seeking out author visit rosters and making sure that paid events are offered to those that are highlighting diversity in kid lit. Take a survey of your personal library...do you have children's books that have Black people as main characters? If so...add to those or review them...if not get started diversifying your collections. What creative ways can you make sure that this segment of Americans is highlighted and featured in your daily life? What more would you like to learn? What more would you like to do? Share it with us! We can inspire each other as we continue to be inspired by Black Americans from our past, present and those who we write and draw for...the future. 

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener. 

The Dream Had Intention

By Tara Michener

Around our globe, the world is looking at our incredible leader... Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I have been thinking very intentionally about Dr. King's work, his life, and his legacy as of late. I have been following his daughter, Bernice King, who leads the King Center and does amazing work on Twitter. Her efforts to uphold and preserve who her dad was and his vision is inspiring. One of the reoccurring themes that Bernice reminds often of in her tweets is that those who invoke King's name should do it respectfully. She is clear that he would not be pleased with watered-down perspectives of his message, his heart towards change and equity, and the fact that he was killed because of his work. When we talk to young people and use children's books to paint a picture of who Dr. King was, it is important not to take away from the fact that his legacy is still in need of protection but also the fact that we all can make a change in small or larger ways towards the footprint that was left for us by Dr. King. As creators, we can ask ourselves if we help with equity and inclusion in our own ways. Do we take opportunities to stand up for others? Do we look at how our work can leave a legacy for our readers? Do we think about how our words and images have an impact on readers who may not look like us and try to see things from their lens? We all have work to do and an incredible dreamer and leader set the stage for us to grow...let's do it together. This day is not just for a day off, a sale, or a vacation. It is for us to remember that a caring man died for freedom and that freedom has not yet been realized for all just yet. We have work to do. 

A New Year can be known for bringing forth new goals and challenges. As the E&I Chair, I am inspired to highlight books and authors that are allowing readers to both learn about cultures and people different than them but also to embrace the importance of representation and for each reader to have the opportunity to see themselves showcased in books as well. As leaders in kid lit we get to have a lasting impact on kids' impressions of themselves and others. I want to begin a new corner where we highlight and embrace what is on my bookshelf. I am calling this feature “On the Shelf.” If you want your book highlighted please let us know! Please be sure to look out for reviews and also for ideas that can allow you and your network to embrace and encourage the beauty of children’s books. The writers and illustrators creating bridges to empathy, understanding and equity are worthy of being acknowledged but they do not always get the author visits, the reviews or the positive feedback…I plan on using my 2022 to help to make that a goal.

 

Read Something Great!

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener.  

NaNoWriMo 2021 by Tara Michener

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What has 50,000 words, is in November and is bound to make you a better writer? NaNoWriMo!

NaNoWriMo is National November Novel Writing Month and is quickly approaching. Why do I love it? I participated in NaNoWriMo in 2011 and the benefits were many. I had to really hone in on my discipline…this meant that my favorite shows and social media surfing had to take a back seat and my free time was scheduled for my manuscript ideas and word count. It made me a better writer but also it helped me with my confidence. I had never written a book with so many words before and this experience taught me that I could do it and actually appreciate the content that I developed and that others would too. My NaNoWriMo book is NO LONGER BESTIES AND OTHER ASSORTED TEENAGE DRAMA. I just got to do a presentation on it this month and I like to inspire people by sharing with them that without NaNoWriMo it may not have happened. So…do you have 50,000 words in you? You may never know until you start. Join me this November 1^stand let’s encourage each other by using the hashtag #nanowrimo on Twitter. The weather will be colder but hopefully you are getting warmer when it comes to your next book. 

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener.  

We're pleased to announce the 2022 SCBWI-MI mentorships will be for novels. The mentors are Patrick Flores-Scott and Kelly J. Baptist. All SCBWI members who live in MI for at least part of the year are eligible to apply. The submission window opens on April 25, 2022. See the website for more information.