Illinois Authors

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers 2023

This bounce-to-the-beat picture book by America’s favorite rapping teacher from Chicago is a tribute to the sights and sounds of a city neighborhood and the special bond between brothers as they help each other overcome their fears. Today is June 19th, Juneteenth’s what they say and for my family, it’s a very special day.But sometimes the hood feels scary when we’re walking around. I wish I could stay home where it’s safe and sound. Where the dogs aren’t BARKING, and the cars aren’t HONKING, and the streetlights aren’t FLICKERING.But when Big Bro tells me it will all be okay, I know the noises can’t hurt me and ruin my day.

Dave Burgess Consulting, Incorporated 2024

The world is waiting for you!When you show up authentically—all out, not afraid that you might be bending the rules or that you’re being too much—you’re going to be that teacher. You’re going to show your students what it’s like to do you: to be unapologetically yourself, joyful, and real. And what more can we want for kids than for them to learn how to unapologetically be themselves?In today’s system, kids are too often seen as points of data. Sometimes, they’re labeled as inherently bad or mischievous, already set on a dangerous trajectory. But teachers must make the deliberate choice to find and see the best in their students. For educators who are seeking guidance on looking past stale, conventional paradigms, Be THAT Teacher offers a much-needed path to building stronger relationships with students, taking more joy in their work, and rehumanizing learning.In Be THAT Teacher, Dwayne Reed proves to educators that there is a huge value in being yourself in the classroom. His approach isn’t just about making a splash, it’s an argument that when teachers are authentically and unapologetically themselves in the classroom, they create a more human space, one that allows students to be their best and have the best outcomes.

Little Brown 2021

Chicago fifth-grader Simon, an aspiring rapper who lacks self-confidence, uses his rhymes to help bring his community together.

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers [S.l.] : 2024

The humorous and heartwarming third book in the Simon B. Rhymin' series, by America's favorite rapping teacher from Chicago, will have readers bopping along to the beat as Simon joins the community basketball team.When eleven-year-old Simon Barnes joins the basketball team, he’s so excited to be part of a neighborhood tradition. But when he shoots an AIR BALL, Simon knows he needs reinforcements. He recruits his best friend C.J. to the team and it's finally looking like the Creighton Park Panthers have a shot at breaking their four-season losing streak—until some of the other players abandon them for a better team. Now Simon isn't sure the Panthers will ever have a chance at winning. But with the help of his friends, a pep rally featuring epic beats, and some Creighton Park pride, maybe the team can finally prove they have what it takes not simply to win, but to be a part of something that matters.Irresistible rhymes and lovable characters will keep readers engaged through this tale of teamwork, community, and friendship.

Little Brown 2022

When Simon B. Rhymin' and his crew notice inequality in their school and neighborhoood, they use rhymes to help bring their community together.--