About the Author

Dr. Kelsi Bracmort is a native Washingtonian who adores DC and the rich history offered to children and young people of all ages. She was inspired to write the Simone series with the hope that a character like Simone will inspire all children to be proud of who they are, to go out and explore, and to follow their dreams. She earned a B.S. in Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University, and both a M.S. and Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering from Purdue University. Takeia Marie is an illustrator from New York, comic book nerd, lover of food, and self-proclaimed hip-hop enthusiast. She enjoys working with small businesses and individuals with big ideas, having worked with clients such as The Mill, Goode Stuff Publishing, Action Lab, Brooklyn College Community Partnership, and more. Her work has been published in the Glyph Pioneer Award-winning anthology, Artists Against Police Brutality, and has been featured in Black Comix Returns: African-American Comic Art & Culture. When she is not drawing she likes to write and has contributed pieces to The Hip Hop Speakeasy and BlackSciFi.com.

Reviews

"A girl learns she can follow her dreams-no matter what anyone says-in this illustrated children's book." - Kirkus Reviews "Inspiration and practical advice wrapped up in an appealing story with a relatable young hero." - Kirkus Reviews"I loved how natural it was for Simone to accept advice and support from her loved ones ... the author gives young readers a nice primer on how to be open to challenges and change ... With the 'Courage' tee shirt, [Simone] shows the wisdom of being prepared even ahead of the big goal you're after." -Judge, 30th Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards