Empowering Black boys and girls through the power of Black-focused books

BY PAUL JUNOR

It has been six years now since the Love of Literature Book Foundation Canada has been making a difference in the lives of young Black boys and girls. It was founded by Danielle Norris, who as Executive Director, has been part of this initiative from its inception. Since it was launched in 2017, there have been nine book terms which has seen it evolve from its early days at Knowledge Bookstore in Brampton. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic propelled it to a virtual platform in 2021, which saw its expansion beyond a grassroots initiative in the City of Brampton. The initiative started with eight students to now almost 950 students from: Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia.

In a press release on Thursday, September 14^th, 2023, Danielle highlights some of the positive achievements of the Love of Literature Book Club. There have been 947 registrants who have participated virtually in its summer and fall programs since 2021. There are many advantages to the online platform for the upcoming ninth book club term. The press release notes, “The online book club creates a safe affinity space for Black children to connect with their peers and review books that feature, celebrate and represent Black culture.”

There will be opportunities for the reader who participates in the fall program to:

• Discover diverse voices by reviewing books with Black authors.
• Foster a love for reading through interesting books with rentable themes.
• Engage in thoughtful discussions through critical thinking and creative expression.
• Build community with peers and mentors through shared experiences and interests.

Danielle states in the press release, “Representation and Diversity in children’s literature matters. Black, Indigenous, and children of colour are severely underrepresented in the books they access at schools, bookstores, and local libraries. We focus on books with Black characters to enhance the reading experiences of Black children while acknowledging and embracing the richness of Black culture. This is how we: educate, inspire, and empower the next generation.”

One of the parents whose child participates in the book club stated, “The Book Club has become an important part of my children’s literary journey. Love of Literature has contributed tremendously in helping them understand and appreciate their identity as Black children in Canada.”

Registration is now open for its fall program for readers between the ages of 7 to 18, of: Black, African and Caribbean backgrounds. It will run from October 28^th to December 9^th, 2023.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Love of 4 Literature Book Club can check:

Website:loveofliteraturebookckub.ca

Instagram:loveofliteraturebookclub

Twitter:@LoveofLit_Books

Facebook:@loveoflitetature.bookclub