We took a quick detour from our Africa travels to wish all the mothers out there a HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!!!
I wanted to share some books to get you in the mood to celebrate all that moms do for their families while also featuring books with black and brown faces. Without further ado, here we go!
First up…
What better way to show our appreciation then by calling out all the ‘hero moms’ who regularly sacrifice and give of themselves with little to no thanks? Add to that a life of service and we’re right up your alley. The book, Hero Mom, by Melinda Hardin celebrates the unsung heroes of the armed forces who are not only women and mothers but warriors too!
Ever been told, “You can’t do it all”? Well, in the book Me and Momma and Big John by Mara Rockliff, you’d think that Momma really could! You see, she’s a stonecutter and is helping to construct the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine in New York City. Tired and sore from a long day’s work but left with the feeling of accomplishment from being a part of something bigger is what many mothers can relate to from this story as well. Read more and hear the inspiring (and true) story of one woman’s work.
A single mother, looking to expand her family’s horizons with a new job opportunity, a supportive grandmother ready to help and a whole neighborhood looking out for each other is what can enhance the traditional family. What’s even better is you get to see it played out in the book, Where’s Jamela by Niki Daly! As an added bonus, the author snuck in some of his South African heritage within the pages of this book. It’ll leave you wanting to find out where’s Jamela too!
There are many this Sunday who will celebrate the mothers in their lives who have been more than that but a grandmother too. My Nana and Me by Irene Smalls is a sweet message of the special bond between a child and her nana. If this is your story as well as you own recollection of the special ‘mother’ in your life, allow it to wrap you in its arms and warm your heart.
And last but certainly not least…
Carrying on your family’s traditions to the next generation are the mark of leaving a true legacy. Mimi’s Tutu, by Tynia Thomassie, showcases how the multi-generational family can impact and inspire it’s youngest members. Celebrate all the mothers in your family this Mother’s Day no matter if she wears the title of Auntie, Gramma, or Mama! Oh, and did I mention this one celebrates the story of a fictitious family from Guinea by the way! Looks like we went to Africa on this one after all! lol 😉
However you choose to celebrate Mother’s Day or if your heart is tender from loss, I pray you are able to cherish the moments you have with those you love most!
Happy Mother’s Day!!
Blessings,
Courtney
