“What’s Your Story?” is a guest post feature on BCBA’s blog. Indie/Self-Published authors are invited to write about their books, writing journey, creative process, inspiration, rewards and challenges of publishing, etc. They can go in whatever direction they choose. We are excited and grateful for their willingness to share, and we hope you enjoy Shalia Seibles’ story. Go here for more WYS? posts.
I am a mother, author, and counselor. I was raised in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, where I graduated from Old Mill High School. I later received my Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and am currently pursuing my Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am a counselor in Baltimore, Maryland, and a psychiatric rehabilitation coordinator for children and adolescents. I am the mother to one daughter, Layla, who is eight years old.
When Layla started first grade at a new school in Severna Park, Maryland, she was the only African American kid in her entire class. This culture change brought on a lot of questions along with undesired feelings for her about the color of her skin and the texture of her hair. After endless mommy-daughter talks with Layla about how beautiful her melanin skin was and the importance of embracing her thick kinky hair, I realized Layla also lacked the confidence to dream big. These conversations with Layla made me realize my daughter may not be the only little Black girl feeling this way. On December 17, 2020, I published her first children’s book titled Reach for the Stars Little Black Girl. My goal for this book was to capture how diverse African American girls are and empower them to go into the world bold and brave despite the color of their skin, the texture of their hair, or the disability they may have. I wanted to encourage girls to embrace their beautiful Black skin and wear it proudly.
So, dream big and reach for the stars, little Black girl.
Reach for the Stars Little Black Girl (Independently Published, LaVana Colebrooke, December 12, 2020, PB, 36 Pages) Available Now!
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