From left to right: E. Desmond Taylor, Toni Weathers, Vernon G. Yancy, Elijah!
MEET ELIJAH
Hey there, my name is Elijah. I really, really love science and totally into sports! Playing soccer and basketball with my friends is super fun, and we have a blast together.
Oh, and self-care? My parents taught me all about this one. It's like giving yourself a little extra love so that you feel good and smell good - my mom loves the smell good part. They call it grooming or hygiene or something, but they showed me easy ways to enjoy it and that's by telling myself nice things at the same time. Now, I am happy when I get ready for school and feel like a superhero when I'm finished!
Join me on my morning routine and learn how positivity can make make a difference in your day. How about starting your day like me by saying aloud, “I am Blessed!”
I’ll see you soon!
MEET THE ILLUSTRATOR
Hey!!! My name is Toni Weathers. My passion for creating art that captures and expresses individual stories and emotions has been a part of my life for over 25 years. Each piece is crafted with purpose and intent, creating a powerful connection between the viewer, the artwork, and the artist. I'm dedicated to helping others discover their creative and unique selves through art. My goal is to inspire others to be fearless and passionate in their pursuit of their dreams.
Fun Fact: Toni started painting at 4 years old because her grandma was her art teacher at P.S 250.
MEET THE AUTHORS
What’s up ya’ll! I am E. Desmond Taylor and ever since I can remember, my mom made sure I knew the importance of looking, smelling, and dressing my best. As she would say, “You never know who you will see or meet, today.” I soon realized, it wasn’t only important to present myself well for others, but that morning routine and self reassurance transcended into how I felt about myself. At a very fundamental level, I am excited to see how many young men will embrace their best self as a result of the lessons and activities found in IAK!
Top of the Top - I am Vernon G. Yancy, and I am excited to share my first authored piece with the world! For me, I was introduced to many less-impactful things young, so I can only imagine how an early awareness of self-care could have benefited 7-year-old Vern, and how many odor-rich car rides home from a long day at school I could have spared my mother! Hopefully I am King! can save the day!