A Door Made for Me

By: Tyler Merritt, Lonnie Ollivierre

Narrated by: Tyler Merritt

This emotional and honest book explores a racist encounter from the perspective of a young Black boy, while offering a message of unconditional love and acceptance to soothe the pain of blind prejudice.

In this story based on the author's childhood, a young Black boy confronts his first experience of overt racism. In recounting the events to his grandfather, the young narrator asks: “How can she hate me when she doesn’t know me?” Grandpa offers wisdom and encouragement to the child, reminding him that another person’s hate does not change the fact that he is loved and that he matters. While offering an unflinching look at the emotional impact of the encounter, Tyler Merritt presents a message of love and acceptance that will resonate with young readers and offer a starting point for conversations about racial equality between parent or caregiver and child.

Critic reviews

"A tender tribute to the power of family in bolstering children making their way in an often unkind world."—Kirkus Reviews

Not just for children

Tyler’s story serves to remind us that behind every door is an opportunity to change the world! The lessons discussed are applicable to all ages, reminding us that we should always open doors for others.
Listen with all the children in your life, share the message that we are all worthy of walking through any door! Thank you for sharing your heart Tyler!!

Precious!

This book is not just for children. I loved it so much. Listen all the way until the end!!

The content! The words! The feeling!

These inspiring words are for children with brown, or mahogany skin that shine bright in the sunshine, moonlight and in the face of racism. Thank you💜

A Door Made for EVERYONE!

I read this book to my 9 year old daughter and we talked extensively on what this means to her after overhearing that kids were calling her, “weird”. Here is a quote from her:

“It means that we need to keep our emotional doors open because sometimes someone may need a little boost. I liked the audiobook because it was from his heart and it was very loving and affectionate.”

This book needs to be read in tandem with the audiobook, (spoiler alert: except you have to skip over the dedication and read that at the end!). I always thought I was decent at reading aloud, but Tyler Merritt, as he does, always takes things to Level 11 and knocks it out of the ballpark!

It’s a wonderful book for social emotional learning and a great choice to be adopted in school programs as well. I’m actively trying to have it be considered for our school’s social emotional program!

Do not hesitate to buy this in tandem with his other book, “I Take My Coffee Black”, which is a life changing memoir for a more mature audience!

Buy a copy for every child.

Just downloaded this little book and listen to it on audible because I had heard such sweet things about it. What a story…. One that will resonate with so many children. I was the jack in the story when I was a child. I was invited in when my friend was not. By this, listen to this, and then, open the doors wide for everyone! Beautifully written, Tyler merit!!

Another Wonderful Book

Listen… Read… Gift… Keep for your kids and grandkids.
This incredible writer is multifaceted, he writes to adults and children. His transparency is quite inspiring. This book is a true keeper!!

So special!

I bought this on audible a few months ago, but didn’t play it for my kids until now since I wasn’t sure if it would be as good without the pictures. I was WRONG! What a gift to have Tyler read it himself! I’m so thankful to have this story in my children’s lives!

Great story , must read and listen.

This is a true story told to you by the incredible Tyler Merritt. This story has heart ,compassion and most importantly it's not just for the kids. The life lessons Tyler shares are profound. Both of my kids loved the book. Thanks for this amazing experience 😍

Love

Purchased this book for my son to start to understand the impact of his words and actions. We have the hard copy and audible. Thank you Tyler!

Powerful.

What a powerful and heartfelt message. This was a message full of hope and resilience, showing that life can be uncomfortable at times, change is coming & love conquers all!