At the store, Shakur is ready to walk around instead of riding in the cart. He explores aisles filled with colorful choices. Dad reminds him that he can only pick one treat. Will it be strawberries or cookies? When it is time to check out, Shakur is a good helper and places the groceries on the belt. His trip to the store captures the excitement and pride of growing up.

About the Shakur Series:
The Shakur Series features Black deaf characters who use American Sign Language, offering a unique and inclusive reading experience for children. The vibrant illustrations showcase a signing family and will captivate young minds, while the engaging text reinforces learning. These charming board books contain positive messages and practical lessons, support early childhood development, and encourage children to explore the world with Shakur. This series honors and celebrates Black deaf experiences through everyday adventures that will resonate with young children and their families.

Published in partnership with The Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center.

From brushing his teeth to picking out his clothes, Shakur guides young readers through a cheerful and instructive morning routine. As Shakur remembers to do his morning activities, he engages in important decision-making. His mom helps him consider the weather to choose the perfect outfit and presents him with healthy breakfast options. This board book not only mirrors the familiar activities of a child’s morning but also reinforces the importance of having a routine and making good choices.

About the Shakur Series:
The Shakur Series features Black deaf characters who use American Sign Language, offering a unique and inclusive reading experience for children. The vibrant illustrations showcase a signing family and will captivate young minds, while the engaging text reinforces learning. These charming board books contain positive messages and practical lessons, support early childhood development, and encourage children to explore the world with Shakur. This series honors and celebrates Black deaf experiences through everyday adventures that will resonate with young children and their families.

Published in partnership with The Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center.

This cozy bedtime story is filled with hugs and kisses, bathtime fun, and gentle encouragements towards establishing a nighttime routine. Shakur begins by saying good night to his family. Then Dad prepares a bubble bath where Shakur enjoys some playful moments. Afterward, Shakur puts on his pajamas and brushes his teeth. They finish with a story — but Shakur isn’t quite ready to sleep. He tries all sorts of things to stay awake, but Dad emphasizes the importance of bedtime. Finally, with his favorite stuffed animal beside him, Shakur drifts off to sleep.

About the Shakur Series:
The Shakur Series features Black deaf characters who use American Sign Language, offering a unique and inclusive reading experience for children. The vibrant illustrations showcase a signing family and will captivate young minds, while the engaging text reinforces learning. These charming board books contain positive messages and practical lessons, support early childhood development, and encourage children to explore the world with Shakur. This series honors and celebrates Black deaf experiences through everyday adventures that will resonate with young children and their families.

Published in partnership with The Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center.

After papá’s arrest in 1980, Daniel’s family fled to the United States. Now Daniel has a new life, playing guitar in a rock band and dating Courtney, a minister’s daughter. He hopes to become a US citizen as soon as he turns eighteen.

When Daniel’s father is released and rejoins his family, they see what five years of prison and torture have done to him. Marcelo is partially paralyzed, haunted by nightmares, and bitter about being exiled to “Gringolandia.” Daniel worries that Courtney’s scheme to start a bilingual human rights newspaper will rake up papá’s past and drive him further into alcohol abuse and self-destruction. Daniel dreams of a real father-son relationship, but he may have to give up everything simply to save his papá’s life.

This powerful coming-of-age story portrays an immigrant teen’s struggle to reach his tortured father and find his place in the world.