Educate! Inspire! Entertain!

Christmas Without Santa: The Reason for the Season by Deborah Cornin is the story of one little boys curiosity about the true meaning of Christmas. Is it all about Santa Claus or Jesus Christ? The author, a dollmaker, has illustrated this book with her incredible Playscale one of a kind dolls in scenes that depict African-American life during the holidays. The story is inspiring. Recommended Ages: 4-8

Streets by Mel King is an extraordinary book of poetry. Mel King describes himself as being “interested in Life and all that it means... (with a commitment) to working for peace, justice and development everywhere.” Those words ring true on every page of this beautifully illustrated work. I can assure you that you will never look at any street the same way again.

Her Best Friend's Lover by Cee Brooks is the very first book released under the Sensastion's Publishing banner. In this steamy and compelling novel, best friend's Lela Crow and Violet Hoerst will force you to re-examine your definition of unconditional love and true friendship. Can these two women, who have been like sisters since elementary school, survive the ultimate betrayal? There is so much going on in this book that you won't be able to put it down! Cee Brooks has knocked the ball out of the park on her first at bat.

This is the first book in the Sweetie's Place series by Dyahnne Alston. The series helps children to cope with difficult situations. In this one, Sweetie has to move away from everything and everybody she knows, creating an emotional rollercoaster for her. With the help of loving and creative parents, friends, and extended family, the sting of the move is alleviated. Recommended Age: 6-10

The second book in the Sweetie's Place series, All About Aisha by Dyahnne Alston explores the world of Sweetie's best friend, Aisha, a foster child. The purpose of this book is to give a voice to foster children and to help other children to gain some understanding of the foster care system. This story is very emotional and heart-warming. Recommended Age: 6-10

Brown Little Babies by Evelyn Gresham is a beautiful picture/poetry book for quiet times with your infant or toddler. Filled with pictures of beautiful African-American babies and soft, soothing, inspirational poetry, this book is sure to delight everyone from 1 to 100. By the way, there is a beautiful doll that is available as a companion to the book.

The Last Night I Dreamt series by Nadine Johnson includes Last Night I Dreamt I Was a Doctor, Last Night I Dreamt I Was a Teacher, and Last Night I Dreamt I Was a Musician. These books are beautifully written and illustratted to encourage children to think about what they might want to be when they grow up. In addition to the uplifting text, each book concludes with additional activities and resources to learn more about famous African-Americans who excelled at that profession. These books should be a part of the library of every parent of a small child. Suggested Ages: 2-6