Why Representation Matters: Finding Diverse Books for Your Child

Are you looking for ways to empower your children through literature and representation? Join Jae and special guest Valerie J. Lewis Cohen as they discuss the transformative power of diverse children's books and the mission behind the When I See Me Children's Book Fair.

In this episode of the Homeschool Your Kids podcast, Valerie shares her journey from publishing relationship advice to becoming a champion for children's literacy. She highlights the startling reality that less than 27 percent of children's books feature characters of color and explains why it is vital for black and brown children to see themselves as the heroes of their own stories.

Valerie also dives deep into the importance of parental advocacy within the school system, sharing personal stories of fighting for her son's academic success and fair treatment. From discussing the school to prison pipeline to the nuances of self-publishing and the power of positive illustrations, this conversation is a must watch for any parent or educator committed to raising confident, literate, and inspired children.

You will learn about the upcoming book fair in Dayton, Ohio, and how providing free books to children can change their entire trajectory.

https://penofthewriter.com/https://wheniseeme.com/https://queenvpublishing.com/

Valerie J. Lewis Coleman is a best-selling author, award-winning publisher, and publishing expert who transforms stories into legacies. With more than twenty years in the industry, she has published over 180 authors—70% of whom became bestsellers—and guided thousands of writers to avoid costly mistakes, publish with excellence, and profit from their books.

As founder of Pen of the Writer, Valerie equips professional speakers, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to magnify their message, grow their platforms, and monetize their expertise through publishing. She also leads the groundbreaking When I See Me™ Children’s Book Fair, an initiative that places diverse, empowering stories into the hands of young readers so every child can see themselves as the hero.

A sought-after speaker and mentor, Valerie blends practical industry knowledge with passion for literacy, representation, and empowerment. Her dynamic presentations make publishing simple, profitable, and impactful—helping authors not only write books, but also change lives.

Learn more at PenOfTheWriter.com, QueenVPublishing.com, and WhenISeeMe.com.

Valerie J. Lewis Coleman, serving professional speakers and experts to magnify and monetize their message by publishing quality books!Click here to launch your writing career!When I See Me™ Children's Book Fair is Saturday, July 25, 2026 in Dayton, OH. Join us for a day of literary fun, giveaways, and more. WhenISeeMe.com Donate to A Book in Every Bag Oh, The Things I Can Be When I See Me - Samara and Lyric are cousins who love to visit their grandmother, MeMe.

The girls talk about all the wonderful things they want to be. Their self-esteem and confidence grow as they learn about women who have done what they hope to do. Filled with historical pioneers and modern-day trailblazers, this picture book empowers girls of color by providing examples of successful women who look like them. Click here to get your autographed copy of the Feathered Quill Bronze Award winner! Creative Child Kids Picture Book of the Year!

Readers Favorite Honorable Mention for Children's Educational Books!The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box - Relationship advice that your father didn't tell you and your mother didn't know. Click here to get your autographed copy of this Amazon bestseller. For Kindle, click here; for Audible, click here; for Nook and other formats, click here.

Visit the website mentioned in the video to learn more about the When I See Me Children's Book Fair and how you can support this vital mission. Be sure to like this video, subscribe to the channel for more empowering content, and share your thoughts in the comments below.