SATA
ENTRY TYPE:
WORK TITLE: YOUR VOICE, YOUR VOTE
WORK NOTES:
PSEUDONYM(S):
BIRTHDATE:
WEBSITE: http://www.leahhendersonbooks.com/
CITY: Washington
STATE:
COUNTRY: United States
NATIONALITY: American
LAST VOLUME: SATA 386
RESEARCHER NOTES:
PERSONAL EDUCATION:
Attended Tufts University; Spalding University, M.F.A. (writing), 2011. Attended Callaloo Writing Workshop at Oxford University.
ADDRESS
CAREER
Author. Faculty member in Spalding University’s MFA program; faculty member at the Highlights Foundation. Holds writing workshops.
AVOCATIONS:Travel.
AWARDS:Bank Street Best Book, 2017, and Children’s Africana Book Award notable, 2018, both for One Shadow on the Wall.
WRITINGS
Also contributor to Black Enough: Stories of Being Young & Black in America, edited by Ibi Zoboi, Balzer + Bray (New York, NY), 2019.
SIDELIGHTS
Leah Henderson is the author of the critically acclaimed middle-grade novels One Shadow on the Wall and The Magic in Changing Your Stars, as well as picture books, including Mamie on the Mound: A Woman in Baseball’s Negro Leagues and Daddy Speaks Love. Her stories showcase diverse characters who overcome the obstacles they face. In an interview with Agatha Rodi on Rodi’s eponymous website, Henderson said: “We live in a diverse world, and for children not to see that represented in books, movies, TV, and in so many other things gives a false sense of the communities we live in or that are around us. Learning about other cultures and people not only fosters empathy, it also expands a child’s worldview, helping to make them more compassionate and fully rounded people.”
Henderson’s debut middle-grade novel, One Shadow on the Wall, features an eleven-year-old Senegalese boy, Mor Fall. After Mor’s parents pass away, he continues to hear his father’s voice and see his mother’s body. Though these manifestations of his grief are initially painful, Mor begins to find solace and strength in them. With his parents gone, it is now Mor’s responsibility to take care of his younger sisters, Amina and Fatima. When a gang of bullies, the Danka Boys from Dakar, threaten their safety, Mor is faced with a decision. In an effort to protect his siblings, he considers joining the gang when he finds out a former friend, Cheikh, is a member. Mor must decide how to keep his family safe while also abiding by his moral code. Describing what she called a “stirring tale,” School Library Journal critic Caitlin Augusta declared that “Henderson creates a multifaceted portrayal of Senegalese village life.” A Kirkus Reviews critic praised One Shadow on the Wall as “a book that rewards” readers and stated: “The author’s experience, research, and sensitivity shine, making this distinctive novel a valuable addition to the literature.”
In The Magic in Changing Your Stars, Henderson’s follow-up middle-grade novel, eleven-year-old Ailey loves to dance. When he auditions for a school performance of the Wiz, however, he forgets his dance moves and his lines. Let down by what he considers a personal failure, Ailey learns that his grandfather experienced a similar situation as a young man in 1930s Harlem. The famous Bojangles gave Grampa, a talented tap dancer, a special pair of shoes and offered him a chance at an audition. Grampa’s tap-dancing dreams came to an end when his own fear of failure prevented him from auditioning. Ailey finds Grampa’s special pair of shoes, puts them on, and is transported back to Harlem, where he has an opportunity to change his life and alter his grandfather’s fateful decision. Kristin Brynsvold, in School Library Journal, noted that, despite the elements of fantasy, the well-researched book has the feel of historical fiction. Brynsvold considered the work a “fast-paced story about family, bravery, and the arts.” A Publishers Weekly reviewer noted the same themes, stating: “The value of family, perseverance, and believing in oneself takes center stage in this bighearted multigenerational story tinged with enchantment.” “Black excellence, black fantastic, and black family combine for a transformational story of passion and persistence,” affirmed a Kirkus Reviews critic.
Along with middle-grade novels, Henderson also writes picture books geared towards a younger audience. Mamie on the Mound is a biography of Mamie “Peanut” Johnson, the first female pitcher to play professional baseball in the Negro Leagues. As a young girl, Mamie faced scrutiny in the sport for her small size and gender. Her talent for pitching proved her skeptics wrong, however, and she joined the Long Branch Police Athletic League as a preteen. The all-white and all-male team initially underestimated Mamie, but with her help, they won two championships. Mamie’s struggles continued when she was denied a spot on the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League due to her race. A former Negro League player advocated for Mamie, and at age nineteen, she had the opportunity to play baseball for the Indianapolis Clowns. In her three-season stint with the team, she obtained a 33-8 pitching record. Lauding Mamie on the Mound, a Kirkus Reviews writer dubbed it “an incredible tribute to an African American woman who dismantled racial and gender obstacles amid the civil rights movement.” School Library Journal critic Abby Bussen predicted that “readers who are unfamiliar with Johnson will walk away from Henderson’s thoughtfully written picture book biography as fans.”
Illustrated by Floyd Cooper, A Day for Rememberin’: Inspired by the True Events of the First Memorial Day is Henderson’s 2021 story of the establishment of the American holiday Memorial Day. Set in 1865 and told through the eyes of young Eli, the son of a freed slave, the story begins as Eli longs to go to work with his father. Eli’s desire is rebuked because his parents want him to prioritize school—a privilege they themselves never had access to. Eli knows that his father is working on a special project at the Charleston race course, but he is not let in on the secret. The race course was originally used as a prison to house Union soldiers during the war. Now, the men, Eli’s father among them, work tirelessly digging and building in preparation for something. One day, Eli is allowed to follow his dad to work and he finally understands what his father was working on all this time. Known at the time as Decoration Day, Eli witnesses a parade, sermon, songs, and the laying of flowers on the fallen Union soldiers’ graves in honor of those who gave their lives to preserve the Union. Decoration Day eventually becomes an annual, nationally recognized holiday, though the name is changed to Memorial Day. Writing in Publishers Weekly, a critic stated, “Henderson commemorates the way Eli’s Black community remembers a painful piece of history—while honoring the people who experienced it.” “Henderson’s choice to show the development of this day of remembrance from the perspective of a child … gives the story weight and meaning,” wrote a contributor to Kirkus Reviews.
In Daddy Speaks Love, Henderson and illustrator E.B. Lewis encapsulate the love between a father and child. Inspired by the words of six-year-old Gianna Floyd after the murder of her father, George Floyd, at the hands of police officers, the story is told by an unnamed child who uses the refrain “Daddy speaks” to catalog the innumerable influences a father has in the life of a child. Joy, comfort, truth, love, and learning, among others, showcase the values of a father. A child is shown laying a teddy bear at the foot of a mural of George Floyd as the child seeks lasting change. The artwork in the book was described by a Publishers Weekly contributor as “evocative,” while Sarah Simpson concluded in her School Library Journal assessment of Daddy Speaks Love that “this impressive title ponders and celebrates the many facets and complexities of fatherhood.”
BIOCRIT
PERIODICALS
Kirkus Reviews, May 15, 2017, review of One Shadow on the Wall; December 1, 2019, review of Mamie on the Mound: A Woman in Baseball’s Negro Leagues; March 15, 2020, review of The Magic in Changing Your Stars; December 15, 2020, review of Together We March; April 15, 2021, review of A Day for Rememberin’: Inspired by the True Events of the First Memorial Day.
Publishers Weekly, November 18, 2019, review of Mamie on the Mound, p. 77; April 20, 2020, review of The Magic in Changing Your Stars, p. 76; November 8, 2021, review of Daddy Speaks Love, p. 66; March 29, 2021, review of A Day for Rememberin’, p. 94.
School Library Journal, June, 2017, Caitlin Augusta, review of One Shadow on the Wall, p. 91; January, 2020, Abby Bussen, review of Mamie on the Mound, p. 90; April, 2020, Kristin Brynsvold, review of The Magic in Changing Your Stars, p. 128; December, 2021, Sarah Simpson, review of Daddy Speaks Love, p. 77.
ONLINE
Agatha Rodi Books, https://agatharodi.wordpress.com/ (February 28, 2017), Agatha Rodi, author interview.
Book Q&As with Deborah Kalb, http://deborahkalbbooks.blogspot.com/ (March 6, 2019), Deborah Kalb, author interview.
GROG, https://groggorg.blogspot.com/ (May 22, 2017), Kathy Halsey, author interview.
Highlights Foundation website, https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/ (January 15, 2018), author interview.
Leah Henderson website, http://www.leahhendersonbooks.com (May 25, 2022).
Live, Love, Read, https://livelovereadya.wordpress.com/ (June 22, 2017), “Musings of Leah Henderson.”
Spalding University website, https://spalding.edu/ (January 22, 2019), Katy Yocom, “Middle-Grade and Picture Book Author Leah Henderson Joins Spalding MFA in Writing Faculty.”
Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators website, https://www.scbwi.org/ (May 25, 2022), author profile.*
Leah Henderson is the author of many critically-acclaimed books for young readers, which have been included on a number of Best Books lists including the New York Public Library, Bank Street College, and the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature. Her titles include The Magic in Changing Your Stars, Together We March andThe Courage of the Little Hummingbird. She has written for the New York Times Book Review and been a contributing author for the Insights column in The National Council of Teachers of English journal Voices From the Middle. Leah has true wanderlust and when she is not creating stories, she is out in the world in search of them. Leah holds an MFA in Writing and is on faculty at Spalding University’s graduate writing program.
Raised in Andover, Massachusetts, Leah has fond memories of getting up to all kinds of shenanigans that often made for great tall tales told late into the night. Growing up in a family of curious travelers, she has always known where there is adventure, there is story. When she was young (and still today), it took nothing for her family to jump in a car, hop on a plane, climb on a camel, huddle in a rickshaw, or step aboard a dhow in search of adventure to learn, explore, and discovery.
Because many of the books she read as a child did not resemble the world she saw, her earliest stories came from a need to finish the tales and follow the real-life achievements and journeys of people and places she saw and learned about on her travels that were often overlooked. Through seeing the world, Leah has witnessed the richness that can be found within everyone’s individual story. That is why writing the world she sees is so vitally important to her.
Leah has mentored for many years and her volunteer work has always centered around young people being able to see their possibilities in the world. She earned her MFA in Writing and is on faculty at Spalding University’s School of Creative and Professional Writing.
These days, when she’s not off exploring, you can find her in Washington D. C. writing, laughing, or planning her next trip to get lost, then found out in the world.
Shorter Bio:
Leah Henderson is the author of many critically-acclaimed books for young readers including The Courage of the Little Hummingbird, Your Voice, Your Vote, The Magic in Changing Your Stars, A Day for Rememberin’, and Together We March. She holds an MFA in Writing and is on faculty in Spalding University’s graduate writing program. Because she has serious wanderlust, when she isn’t creating stories, she’s off someplace in the world getting lost, then found, discovering new ones.
You can find her on Instagram @Leahs_Mark or at her website: leahhendersonbooks.com.
Detailed Short Bio:
Leah Henderson is a writer, mentor, and teacher. Her critically acclaimed books for young readers appear on numerous Best Books lists including the Kirkus Review, New York Public Library, Bank Street College, and the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature. They have been American Library Association Notables, Junior Library Guild Selections, and SCBWI Golden Kite Award Finalists among other awards.
As an avid travel who has explored over 65 countries, her writing speaks to the world she experiences and the one she hopes to see. Her books include The Courage of the Little Hummingbird, Your Voice, Your Vote, The Magic in Changing Your Stars, A Day for Rememberin’, and Together We March. She has written for the New York Times Book Review and been a contributing author for the Insights column in The National Council of Teachers of English journal Voices From the Middle. She attended Callaloo Writing Workshop at Oxford University, and has served on committees for We Need Diverse Books, Highlight’s Foundation and Kweli Journal’s The Color of Children’s Literature Conference. Leah holds an MFA in Writing and is on faculty in Spalding University’s graduate writing program and a visiting faculty member at Hollins University MFA Writing program.
Born in Richmond, Virginia, Leah grew up in Andover, Massachusetts and now calls Washington, D.C. home.
You can find her on Twitter @LeahsMark or at her website: leahhendersonbooks.com.
You ask, I answer . . .
-FAQs-
Do you have a favorite book?
It’s hard to use the word “favorite” to describe how I feel about things. Favorites with an ‘s’ is probably a better question to ask. 🙂 There are so many books I love, and run to depending on my mood. But there are definitely some that have stuck with me.
When I was young, COURDEROY definitely left an impression. It featured someone that looked like my mom and me! More recently I have loved AMAZING GRACE, for similar reasons. But I also really enjoyed FISH IN A TREE, STRICTLY NO ELEPHANTS, A STORY ABOUT AFIYA, NINA, AMARI AND THE NIGHT BROTHERS, and BOYS IN THE BOAT. But I come back to SULA, CHARLOTTE’S WEB, and THE PEOPLE COULD FLY again and again.
Do you have a favorite movie?
Again, I need the ‘s’. Favorite is too limiting. Some I never get tired of watching are: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (either the animated or new version), NOTTING HILL, FINDING FORRESTER, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, and WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING just to name a few.
What are a few things about you people may or may not know?
I’m an All-NewEngland soccer player, I’m a National Champion rower, and I have a sever case of wanderlust (I start to fidget if I can’t explore).
As an avid traveler, where is your happy place? Where were your most unforgettable adventures?
Amalfi Coast in Italy is definitely my happy place! It is also the place of one of my most unforgettable adventures, which involves the rain, an angel, a dog and a dark, dark night. Timbuktu and Oman come in a close second and third though.
Travel seems to be very important to you, where have you been?
I’ve been to 49 states (still trying to get to Alaska) and more than 60 countries. They all opened my eyes to something new and often unexpected. Some of the most memorable trips include: Malaysia, Singapore, Senegal, Seychelles, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, China, India, Croatia, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, England, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Mali, Haiti, the United Arab Emirates, and Lebonan . . . and of course each has a story.
What are some quotes you love?
“Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” ~Roald Dahl
“Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” ~Anton Chekhov
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” ~Maya Angelou
What made you set ONE SHADOW ON THE WALL in Senegal?
I was on a trip to Senegal and saw a boy on a beach wall that truly captivated me. He became the inspiration for my main character, Mor. So the story and setting found me.
What’s something you love to do that is a silly way to pass the time?
Online personality quizzes. “What’s Your Secret Power?”, “Which City You Belong In?”, “Which Country Should Be Your Second Home?”, “What Would You Be In A Fantasy World?” etc. I love these! Even when the results are iffy, there is always a kernel of me in there somewhere.
-Flash Questions-
Hamburger or pizza?
Pizza. Probably always pizza.
Ice cream or chips?
Does gelato count? Mint chip or stracciatella gelato any day, any time and you’ll see me smile.
Water or Woods?
Both. I love water—lakes, ponds, rivers, oceans, and seas. But I’m also up for a walk in the woods with my dog and a can of bug spray. Mosquitoes think I’m their best friend . . . trust me, I don’t want to be!
Greatest fear?
Letting someone down and never knowing that I have.
What can’t you believe?
That I get to make stuff up for a living . . . though there are definitely unicorns, mermaids, and spirits out there somewhere, don’t you think?
What’s happiness to you?
My mom’s laugh, a child’s giggle, or my dad saying: :”hot dog!”
Fun fact?
I love, love, loved playing soccer with my dog at midnight.
Leah Henderson (she/her)
“When I write, and when I speak to audiences, I want people to understand each and every one of us can find a world of possibilities within the pages of a book and beyond. I want people to see how being open to experience can hold a special kind of magic.”
Biography
Raised in Andover, Massachusetts, Leah has fond memories of getting up to all kinds of shenanigans that often made for great tall tales told late into the night. Growing up in a family of curious travelers, she has always known: where there is adventure, there is story. When she was young (and still today), it took nothing for her family to jump in a car, hop on a plane, climb on a camel, huddle in a rickshaw, or step aboard a dhow in search of adventure to learn, explore, and discover.
Because many of the books she read as a child did not resemble the world she saw, her earliest stories came from a need to finish the tales and follow the real-life achievements and journeys of people and places she saw and learned about on her travels. Leah frequently writes about and highlights experiences often overlooked. Through seeing the world, she has witnessed the richness that can be found within everyone’s individual story. That’s why writing the world she sees is so vitally important to her.
Leah has mentored for many years and her volunteer work has roots in Mali, West Africa. She holds an MFA in Writing and is on faculty in Spalding University’s graduate writing program.
These days, when she’s not off exploring, you can find her writing, laughing, or playing soccer at midnight in Washington, D.C.
THE COURAGE OF THE LITTLE HUMMINGBIRD: Interview with Author Leah Henderson
Sara Holly Ackerman April 20, 2023
When my students saw The Courage of the Little Hummingbird: A Tale Told Around the World on display in the classroom, they demanded an immediate read aloud. I’m not surprised. When I came across the cover for the first time, I was immediately pulled in too, first by the lush art, and then by the title. What did the Hummingbird do? Why was she courageous? But because of pesky things like time constraints and carefully crafted lesson plans, the children had to survive a brief wait to hear the story and I got to enjoy their loudly expressed opinions about this wait.
Well, the wait is over, and The Courage of the Little Hummingbird was a hit! In this fable retelling, written by Leah Henderson and illustrated by Magaly Morales, a fire tears through the Great Forest. After the animals flee, a little hummingbird decides she will try to extinguish the flames one tiny beakful of water at a time. At first the other animals think she’s foolish and resign themselves to the fire’s destruction, but the little hummingbird eventually inspires her fellow creatures to join together to save the forest. My students loved the abundance of animals (there are so many the odds are good a kid will spot their favorite), the engaging art, and the hopeful ending. I loved how the message connects to the way we frame caring for the environment, especially leading up to our Earth Day celebrations. To paraphrase the little Hummingbird, we do all we can. Messages run the risk of talking down to children, but this one lifts them up.
We are lucky to have author Leah Henderson on Picture Book Builders today to talk about her beautiful new book.
SARA: Welcome to Picture Book Builders!
LEAH: Thanks so much for having me and for sharing a little bit of my work.
SARA: We’re so glad you’re here! You mention in your author’s note that you first heard this fable as a child. Did you always know that you wanted to retell this story?
LEAH: I never really thought of writing a retelling before this. A few years ago, it was honestly the words of the little hummingbird that I needed to hear and remember. You know how that goes sometimes. A picture book can be an awesome place to find the answers we need. But I know you all know that.
It was a time where I doubted if what I was doing could really make a difference. But that little hummingbird got me to pull out a napkin and write (I was on a plane at the time). I attempted my own version of her story.
So, this is a project I truly wrote for me. To help me keep going when I thought my efforts might not be enough.
SARA: How did the process of writing a retelling differ from your experience writing other types of picture books? How did you balance honoring traditional versions of the tale with sharing your unique vision?
LEAH: Since I was pulling from my memories, I started there. The first draft had no influences. I just wrote what I remembered. And it has basically stayed the same since those early drafts. Once I had something down, I did go in search of the origin story, as well as more retellings. One thing I noticed was that the retellings I found often centered where the storyteller was from in terms of the animals who were represented. In one version, the star of the show so to speak wasn’t even a hummingbird, but a parrot. What was important to me above all else, was that I showcased animals from all over the world. I wanted my Great Forest to be truly great, a place where penguins met with lions, sloths, and foxes. Like in life, so many things will require a global effort.
SARA: As a teacher, I found your explanation of the Great Forest in the author’s note and the section of back matter clarifying where each of these species really lives to be very helpful. And as someone who used to live in Congo, I was thrilled to see an okapi featured. What advice do you have for authors interested in retelling old tales?
LEAH: With older tales, there was always a message woven in, so I think it is important to think about how much or how little you want to lean into the message. In my case, it was central, but in another retelling it may not be. The people, or the situations they find themselves in maybe the most important. It is also very important to credit the origins of the retelling, whether you stray from it or not. There is always a place, community and reason these early tales were told—honor them. Then have fun with it, and explore all the possibilities that particular retelling might hold, don’t be constrained by it, use it as your way into and through your story.
SARA: What do you hope children will take away from The Courage of the Little Hummingbird?
LEAH: The same thing I needed to be reminded of—that no matter how insignificant we believe our efforts will be, we should always do all we can. Otherwise we will never know how great or small the outcome. But whatever it is, it is almost always better than doing nothing. And may just be the effort that is needed.
SARA: It’s an empowering message for children, especially as it’s the smallest creature in the forest who inspires action. What’s next for you as an author? Do you have any forthcoming books we can be on the lookout for?
LEAH: Who really knows what’s next for me. That’s part of the magic in what we do. There are discoveries to be made around every corner.
But I do have a few forthcoming books, not all of them are announced yet, but I am excited about a picture book I have coming out next year in time for election season. It’s called YOUR VOICE, YOUR VOTE (HarperCollins), illustrated by Keisha Morris. I can’t wait for readers to meet Quetta Little, her mom, and grandma, and join them on Quetta’s journey to learning all about the importance of voting and its history.
SARA: I can’t wait to meet Quetta as well! Thank you, Leah, for taking the time to share your journey with us.
LEAH: Thanks so much for letting me stop by!
A Café Chat with Author Leah Henderson, by Rona Shirdan
Posted on March 6, 2023 by EasternPennPoints
Author Leah Henderson will be joining our SCBWI chapter at the Pocono Remix 2023 retreat this April at the Highlights Foundation. Leah will run a workshop titled Learn Character, Learn Voice, provide critiques for those who have signed up, give the Saturday keynote speech, and participate in the industry swap discussions. In preparation for this event, Rona Shirdan had a virtual chat with Leah for EasternPennPoints. Here’s what they had to say.
A Café Chat with Author Leah Henderson, by Rona Shirdan
Rona: Hi Leah! Let’s grab a booth by the window here in the EasternPennPoints Café. I’m going to have the avocado toast and a cup of green tea. Can I get you something?
Leah: I’d love a cup of roasted matcha tea with a drop of agave. Thanks!
Rona: It’s wonderful to catch up with you again. I know you’ve been busy!
You’ve been writing for quite a while now and have received great recognition for your work. Congratulations! When did you first realize that you wanted to write for children?
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Leah: First off, it’s always great getting to catch up with you. And thank you, this journey has definitely been an interesting one so far!
I come from a family that absolutely loves to tell stories, and hear stories. So I have always been surrounded by story and storytellers, but I didn’t truly turn to writing for children until graduate school. There, one of the writing for children professors encouraged me to consider her class. At the time, I wasn’t sure what she saw in my work (I was writing for adults), or why she was encouraging me to take the leap to children’s, but I’m so glad she did. I quickly became enamored with kidlit and the kidlit community, starting with my classmates. They were truly wonderful people, excited about every aspect of children’s books. Their excitement and love for them was definitely contagious in the most wonderful ways.
Rona: You’ve written middle grade novels, a few young adult anthologies, as well as picture books. Which genre do you prefer writing? Which book was the most difficult to write?
Leah: I think my brain naturally gravitates towards middle grade. It is such an amazing time in a young person’s life when so many discoveries are being made about ourselves and the world around us. It’s a fruitful period to dive in and explore again.
As far as difficult to write goes…um, aren’t they all? Ha!
But, One Shadow on the Wall presented unique challenges for me, for so many reasons, mainly because I had no clue what I was doing. It was my first attempt at a middle grade. Plus, I was writing about an experience outside of my own, and I was very fearful that my words could do harm in some way. Stepping into someone else’s shoes is never easy, and should always be done with sensitivity, listening ears, and watchful eyes. I was always extremely mindful of trying to tell an authentic story. While I was constantly making missteps and mistakes, I was also trying to research, observe, and ask every question to try and correct them. It was a long and uncertain process. But I learned so much about myself and the craft of writing from it. Whereas, Together We March was difficult in a completely different way. While I love research and history, it was hard to read over and over again about the injustices that spurred so many to march. Some of that history, and those truths of humanity are just brutal. But they were moments I wanted to understand.
Rona: Do you have a regular writing routine and a special place to write?
Leah: I wish I could say I have a regular writing routine, but I won’t start fibbing. When I do tuck in to write, it is usually first thing in the morning, before I truly let the world in. I will have my cup of tea, candles lit, and even in the summer a cozy throw over my legs. As far as a special place goes, I love to travel, so I will try and make a special little corner wherever I am in the world.
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Rona: When you’re not writing, do you find time to read? What’s on your list of books to read right now?
Leah: Reading for pleasure, what’s that? I read all the time, but reading for pleasure is something I don’t do often enough! There are so many wonderful books on my to-read pile.
I’m about to crack open Zetta Elliott’s latest in the Dragons in a Bag series, The Enchanted Bridge, Frank Morrison’s Kick Push, and Standing in the Need of Prayer written by the amazing Carole Boston Weatherford.
Rona: I know you enjoy traveling and that you’ve traveled extensively. What has been your favorite place to visit so far?
Leah: Oh my goodness, that is a question I will NEVER be able to answer. I’ve gone to over 65 countries and each experience imprinted on me in some way. But I will say strolling and imagining on the dirt and cobbled roads of Timbuktu – where Black intellectuals shared their knowledge with the world – was truly life-changing and magical. As a fish, nothing quite tops unexpectedly swimming with dolphins in Oman and scuba diving with sea turtles (anywhere). But meeting an angel along the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast has definitely stayed with me too. I’m telling you, each place has a story!
Rona: How has your love for adventure come through in your characters and their stories?
Leah: You’ll get a piece of me in every book I write. Growing up, seeing and exploring our possibilities was a HUGE thing in my family – and still is. So my characters and the nonfiction projects I gravitate towards are all about seeing and experiencing those possibilities and adventures, with the hope that young readers will come to understand through my characters and my words that there are possibilities out in the world for them too.
Rona: I’m very excited that you plan to join us at our Pocono Remix retreat in April. What can we look forward to learning about in your upcoming presentation on “Character and Voice”?
Leah: I look forward to being with you all as well. As a character-driven writer, I love talking about all things voice and character. For me, they truly go hand in hand, so we will look at how that relationship comes together to help strengthen stories, creating truly unique, and hopefully unforgettable characters readers will remember long after the book is closed. That’s one of the best parts of all this – bringing characters to life. Through questions, exercises and shifts in perspective, we will explore how to enliven our characters for each and every story we write.
Rona: Do you have any advice for writers who are just getting started?
Leah: The first thing I always say, and that I still need to hear, is be kind to yourself. This business is a true rollercoaster ride filled with so many twists and turns, and ups and downs. Make sure you are giving yourself what you need to maintain a healthy balance with the work and the business.
Find your community within the kidlit community. Especially people of like minds, with similar paths/interests on this journey. They are the ones who will understand exactly where you are coming from at different moments on the ride. They help lift you up when you need it, and cheer on your successes – both large and small – because they truly get it.
When reviewing your own work, remember the power and magic of revision. You will get there. You just need to keep putting in the effort (but stepping away to replenish your creative well when needed is also important), so don’t get too hard on yourself if you are not there yet! Keep swimming!
Rona: How would you like your work to impact the children who read your books?
Leah: Overall, I would love for kids to find a friend in my stories. But I also want them to recognize that there are possibilities out in the world for them. Most importantly, I want them to know from my work that their experiences and emotions are seen and that they matter.
Rona: Thank you so much for taking time to chat with me today. I’m looking forward to seeing you at the retreat!
Leah: Thank you so much for having me. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone at the retreat as well!
You can learn more about Leah Henderson and her upcoming workshops and events by visiting her website (http://www.leahhendersonbooks.com/)
Leah Henderson is the author of several critically acclaimed books for young readers including The Magic in Changing Your Stars (an SCBWI Golden Kite Award finalist), One Shadow on the Wall, Daddy Speaks Love, A Day for Rememberin’, and Together We March (an SCBWI Golden Kite Award finalist). Leah holds an MFA in Writing and is on faculty in Spalding University’s graduate writing program.
#20Questions with Author Leah Henderson
Updated: Feb 4, 2022
Author Leah Henderson shares about her childhood sports barrier-breaking and her kidlit nonfiction inspirations in this first #20questions blog post!
Throughout 2020, we posted a #20questions interview with the author and/or illustrator of each #DiverseKidlitNF book. We thought it would be fun and fascinating to hear the diverse answers from our diverse creators, about our books’ diverse topics, using the same #20questions for each author and illustrator.
By the end of 2020, our blog will host a fabulous resource for educators, librarians, and conference organizers about creating high-quality, diverse nonfiction picture books, and what makes our #DiverseKidlitNF books and creators special.
Now, enjoy learning more about MAMIE ON THE MOUND and Leah Henderson!
1. Leah, what inspired you to write this book?
When I was a kid I was a very competitive athlete, so much so that when the boys traveling soccer coach in my area told me girls couldn’t play on his team—even though I had never really kicked a soccer ball at that point—I was determined to play. And after a lot of practice and help from my older brother (who had played on the team), I became one of the first two girls on that once all-boys team. So, when it came to Mamie, I understood her determination and focus and her want to play.
2. How did you approach the research for this book?
For this particular project, I was fortunate that there were a series of video interviews with Mamie Johnson that I could watch. She was quite a personality. It was wonderful to be able to hear from her firsthand how she viewed the game, her opportunities, and her challenges. As well as to watch her mannerisms. After that I dove into articles and books about her, her teammates, the history of America at the time, and the Negro Leagues.
3. What’s something that surprised you while researching this book?
It’s not so much that any one thing surprised me, but I always find it interesting to read people’s interpretation of someone else’s life and to see what they include and omit, especially in the pages of a book. Then to hear what the actual person valued or how they recount the same experiences. It is always fascinating to see how things line up (or don’t) and how memory and feeling meld.
4. What was your favorite part about writing this book?
Learning more about Mamie, and surrounding myself with the wonder and awesomeness of the Negro Leagues and its players and fans.
5. What was the hardest part about writing this book?
Figuring out what not to include.
6. Who is this book’s ideal reader, in your eyes?
Anyone interested in learning about a little-known figure in history. Sports fans (especially those of baseball and the Negro Leagues). Anyone who is always ready to root for the underdog, and anyone interested in learning about the determination of someone in pursuit of their dream.
7. What do you want kids to know about this book?
Mamie was like anyone who has had a love of something, whether that be a sport, an artistic pursuit, or some other activity someone could not imagine not being a part of their life. What sets her apart from so many is the fact that she never gave up on hoping, dreaming and working towards what she wanted, even though she had two strikes against her from the very start—being Black, and being a girl. I want her story to be a reminder to young readers that just because the world maybe saying no, that doesn’t mean you have to say no to your dream as well if you are willing to work for it.
8. What do you want educators and librarians to know about this book?
At its core, this is a story about determination and will, but it can be the springboard for so many different types of conversations and additional readings on multiple topics including segregation, gender, equality etc.
9. Who is the publisher for this book?
Capstone
10. When is the official release date for this book?
January 1, 2020
11. What do you like most about writing children’s nonfiction books?
Being able to bring little-known stories to light.
12. What’s the biggest challenge in writing children’s nonfiction books?
Not wanting to do harm or misrepresent an experience. Knowing when I have gone deep enough to uncover the facts.
13. How did you get into writing children’s nonfiction books?
I’ve always been fascinated by lives and stories that have often been overshadowed, because those are usually the stories of everyday people standing up, speaking out, or challenging themselves in heroic ways. I think those are the stories that can remind each of us that we are all capable of more. And those are the stories I have always been interested in exploring and telling.
14. Which other children’s nonfiction books inspire you?
There are so many nonfiction books that hold importance for me for a multitude of reasons, but when I was first dipping my toes in the children’s book world, two nonfiction titles that left a firm impression of how wonderful a nonfiction book could be were: MOSES: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom by Carole Boston Weatherford, and THE NOISY PAINT BOX: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky’s Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock.
15. Do you have other jobs besides writing children’s books? (If so, what?)
Along with writing children’s books, I do a lot of volunteer work, and also teach in a graduate school writing program.
16. What’s something that surprised you about being a children’s book author?
The welcoming community of authors and illustrators that I am now fortunate to be a part of.
17. What’s something about you that would surprise kids to know?
Hmmm, there are probably a couple things, but one thing that informs a lot of my life is travel. So kids might be surprised to know that I have visited over 55 countries and am excited for what destinations I might have the honor and pleasure to explore in 2020.
18. What do you think makes a great nonfiction writer?
Someone who is not only willing to question the facts before them, but who is ready to do the work of looking beyond the facts given to find various angles to the same story, to figure out where they all meet.
19. Do you have any advice for kids who want to write children’s books?
Read widely and read a lot! Then just sit down and write—knowing the true magic of your work often won’t reveal itself to you until revision. So, don’t get discouraged early on if what you first put down on paper does not match the brilliance twirling around in your head. :) It will come with rewriting (i.e. practice)!
20. Where can people find you online?
You can always find me at www.leahhendersonbooks.com but I also pop onto twitter (@leahsmark) and Instagram (@leahs_mark) occasionally.
Henderson, Leah THE COURAGE OF THE LITTLE HUMMINGBIRD Abrams (Children's None) $18.99 4, 11 ISBN: 9781419754555
A retelling of a fable with a lesson for all.
"In villages, in towns, in cities, and classrooms. In whispers, in shouts, and in many different languages, the story of the little hummingbird of the Great Forest is told." This version of the story, told around the world and likely originating among the Quechua people, imagines a setting in which animals from all over the globe live together in a forest until they're forced to flee a fire. While they rest and recover, the eponymous hummingbird asks for help fighting the blaze, but they all refuse. Undaunted, the brave bird begins bringing water droplets from the river to the forest. The art and the careful placement of text guide the eye through the necessarily chaotic scenes, allowing readers to locate animals named by accompanying text. The animals are shocked, thinking the bird's actions foolhardy and futile. "What do you think you're doing?" asks the lion. "I'm doing all I can," is the succinct, inspirational reply. This call to action is for the animals and for anyone who fears the insignificance of their efforts. It's a powerful message, made accessible and engaging through both Henderson's writing and Morales' vibrant, vividly textured illustrations. Outstanding backmatter loaded with hummingbird facts and acknowledgement of the places the animals depicted here live in the real world rounds out this truly special offering. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
Brave the crowds to get this one, wherever you are. (Picture book. 3-8)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2023 Kirkus Media LLC
http://www.kirkusreviews.com/
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"Henderson, Leah: THE COURAGE OF THE LITTLE HUMMINGBIRD." Kirkus Reviews, 15 Feb. 2023, p. NA. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A736806114/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=7228f855. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.
Henderson, Leah YOUR VOICE, YOUR VOTE Harper/HarperCollins (Children's None) $19.99 12, 19 ISBN: 9780062986115
A Black family makes an important journey on Election Day.
Young Quetta and her mother and grandmother take a long ride on two different buses (standing room only). Once they arrive at their polling place, they see a long line of community members, and they settle in to wait and wait and wait. It's a big day--Grandma has even donned her Sunday hat, though it's Tuesday. If it's such an important day, though, why does Quetta's mother still have to go to work? the girl wonders. And as it begins to rain, Quetta suggests going home. That opens up a conversation between Quetta and Grandma, whose parents and grandparents fought for the right to vote and who explains just how crucial it is to exercise this right. As they reach the front of the line, everyone is told that they must have their IDs in order to vote. Grandma is initially unable to find hers, and a knot forms in Quetta's stomach. Luckily, all ends well, and Quetta gets to watch two generations of women in her family cast their votes. Henderson's story of a loving family working hard to vote puts this civic duty into greater historical context. Morris' digital illustrations have an intimate, collagelike look, with specific details that bring to life the various members of this community.
A much-needed reminder that voting is a right not to be taken for granted. (author's note, further reading, timeline) (Picture book. 4-8)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2023 Kirkus Media LLC
http://www.kirkusreviews.com/
Source Citation
Source Citation
MLA 9th Edition APA 7th Edition Chicago 17th Edition Harvard
"Henderson, Leah: YOUR VOICE, YOUR VOTE." Kirkus Reviews, 15 Oct. 2023, p. NA. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A768633696/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=ff91d75c. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.
HENDERSON, Leah. Your Voice, Your Vote. illus. by Keisha Morris. 40p. Harper Collins. Dec. 2023. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780062986115.
K-Gr 3--A celebration of voting begins as Quetta waits impatiently for her mother to arrive home on Election Day. Quetta is excited to join her mother and grandmother on their journey to vote. As they take several buses and a long walk through their lively and diverse neighborhood, they encounter many community members eager to cast their own votes. Quetta is dismayed when they finally arrive at their polling station and the line seems endlessly long. To bolster Quetta's resolve, her grandmother tells her of the many exclusionary practices that Black Americans like her great-grandparents faced and reminds her of the importance of using her voice to create change. When her grandmother's ID is missing just as they finally get a turn to vote, there's a moment of suspense that keeps readers engaged while driving home how precarious the right to vote can be. Quetta and her family are depicted in bright colors that emphasize the excitement of election day, while faded blues depict the obstacles they face. An author's note with suggestions for further reading and a time line provides insight into the battle for voting rights for all. VERDICT A child's-eye view of the voting experience that highlights the joys and frustrations of making one's voice heard.--Alia Shields
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2023 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/
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MLA 9th Edition APA 7th Edition Chicago 17th Edition Harvard
Shields, Alia. "HENDERSON, Leah. Your Voice, Your Vote." School Library Journal, vol. 69, no. 12, Dec. 2023, p. 79. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A779118650/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=173463b5. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.