Dr. Carlotta Penn was inspired to start writing books when she noticed the lack of diversity in young literature after she had her daughter.
Her first title is called "Dream a Rainbow". Dream A Rainbow teaches children the colors of the rainbow and inspires them to believe in their dreams. On a stormy morning, Hana sees a rainbow and dreams of where it might take her. She slides into a fantastical adventure to Ethiopia, where she plays with friends and beautiful animals. When she returns home to bed, she is sure — dreams really do come true!
Her second title, "The Turtle With an Afro" (title inspired by her father) is a fun, beautifully illustrated story of a Turtle who loves her Afro, and is for all who know that curly Afros are beautiful! The Turtle with an Afro is frustrated because her springy head of curls will not stay in place. But Turtle soon sees the light, and learns that her curls are DYNAMITE! Children will love to read along with this celebration of curly, kinky, coily hair in all its forms, and learn a lesson on self-love and acceptance along the way! The Turtle with an Afro features an anthropomorphic character with an African-American likeness, which includes thick, curly hair. However, Turtle’s struggle with styling her hair is an experience that girls and women are likely to identify with, regardless of cultural background. The plot centers on her emotional journey from frustration to excitement as she styles her “fantastic, frolicking, feisty” hair. This poetic, alliterative children's book makes for an engaging read aloud with young kids at home and at school. Its playful tone and fast pace hold the attention and delight of readers. Ultimately, this is a story of self-love that acknowledges how we as humans grapple with our bodies, our image, and our desire to present our best selves to the world. Children will leave this story with confidence in the mantra: Rock your crown!
From Carlotta's LinkedIn page:
"My work in education, creative, and community settings is fueled by my interest in helping to build a world where we thrive independently and as social groups within a diverse global society. I specialize in Program Development, Training and Research, Community Outreach, Event Management, and Curriculum Development. I am a diversity and equity advocate with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) focused in Multicultural Education from The Ohio State University."
Owner and Author at Daydreamers Press, publisher of multicultural children's literature and curricula.
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