What's Happening?
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, a Black Muslim picture book author and veteran educator, is committed to centering Black and Muslim characters in her stories. Her works include 'Mommy’s Khimar,' 'Your Name Is a Song,' and upcoming titles 'Together We Are Sunshine' and 'Ramadan Rain.' Thompkins-Bigelow began her career as a classroom teacher, focusing on anti-racist curricula and encouraging students from marginalized backgrounds to express themselves through writing. Her passion for writing children's books was reignited after reading picture books to her own children, leading her to create stories that reflect diverse experiences. Her first book, 'Mommy’s Khimar,' was published by Simon & Schuster’s Salaam Reads imprint, which focuses on Muslim children's books.
Why It's Important?
Thompkins-Bigelow's work is significant in promoting diversity and inclusion in children's literature, providing representation for Black and Muslim children who often lack visibility in mainstream media. Her stories aim to foster acceptance and joy among readers, encouraging them to embrace their identities. By mentoring other Black and Muslim authors, Thompkins-Bigelow is helping to diversify the voices and perspectives available in children's literature, ensuring that more children see themselves reflected in the stories they read. This representation can have a profound impact on young readers, contributing to their sense of belonging and self-worth.
What's Next?
Thompkins-Bigelow continues to write and publish books that celebrate Black and Muslim identities, with 'Together We Are Sunshine' and 'Ramadan Rain' set to release soon. She remains active in mentoring programs, such as the Highlights Foundation’s Muslim Storytellers Program and We Need Diverse Books, supporting aspiring authors from marginalized communities. Her efforts are likely to inspire more diverse storytelling in children's literature, potentially influencing publishers to seek out and promote works by authors from underrepresented backgrounds.
Beyond the Headlines
Thompkins-Bigelow's dedication to diversity in literature highlights broader cultural shifts towards inclusivity and representation. Her work challenges traditional narratives and encourages readers to question who is being excluded from stories. By focusing on joy and acceptance, her books offer a counter-narrative to the often negative portrayals of marginalized communities, contributing to a more positive and nuanced understanding of diverse identities.
