Embracing Chosen Family

I'm so excited to share with you my most recent children's book project, Mama's Home! It's a picture book written by Shay Youngblood and illustrated by me.

It was such an honor to work on this book, which is a powerful love letter to chosen families and the village that raises us. In the story, a young girl basks in the love of her community–which includes not only her mother but the many different women who make up her world.

Working on this book helped me develop my style and add more detail to the works I created. My editors pushed me to dig deeper and immerse myself in the settings, food and character interactions throughout the book. As a result, the colorful cast of characters are lightly influenced by the various women in my life who have poured into me growing up.

I'm grateful to the editors at Make Me a World at Random House for believing in me and allowing me to contribute my perspective to what feels like a familiar experience for many. Mama's Home is now available for purchase online and in book stores!