NASHVILLE, TN — A groundbreaking new book titled Sincerely, Black Teens has been released by the teens of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Nashville Chapter. The book is a compelling collection of essays, poems, and prose that serve as a heartfelt letter to the country, peers, parents, and the world, articulating the complexities of growing up Black in the United States. It offers profound insight into the lives of Black youth in America today,
The teens tackle a range of issues in their writings, from racism and colorism to equality, self-love, and the overarching challenges of police brutality, mass shootings, and health disparities exacerbated by the pandemic. Their stories are a candid reflection of their vulnerabilities, joys, sorrows, fears, and resilience.
For example, Alivia Dove writes of the strength and resilience of Black Women, Kaytlin Small’s “Dancing in the Dark” is a sad lament of a black dancer in a predominately white class, and Solomon Brook’s “Racism” discusses the demoralizing impact of discrimination.
“The opportunity to write this book together as a group, allowed us to freely express ourselves, free of judgment or ridicule,” said Kennedy Lovett, Teen president of the Nashville Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc, “Coming from various schools, we are constantly forced to quietly live our lives despite having so many obstacles placed against us and no true outlet to decompress. By Nashville Jack and Jill mothers providing a space for us to collaborate and share ideas on pressing topics, we are pushing the narrative by simply starting a conversation. We can make the first real step to change our society.”
Sincerely, Black Teens emerged from a collaborative effort initiated by the Nashville Chapter’s Program Director, Leah Granderson, who invited Timothy Bond, founder of True Vine Publishing Company, to inspire the teens about writing and publishing. The enthusiasm and engagement from the teens was so infectious that Bond proposed the idea of compiling their individual essays into a book.
Tracey Barnes Lovett, Lead Teen Sponsor, along with Co-Lead Teen Advisors Jennifer Jemison and Cleshette Hudson, were thrilled to provide such an enriching opportunity to the teens, aligning perfectly with Jack and Jill’s mission to nurture future African American leaders through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, and civic duty. Lovett praised the teen authors for their courage in sharing their personal experiences and hopes the book will encourage other young people to understand the significance of their voices in advocating for change and mutual understanding.
The teen authors featured in Sincerely, Black Teens include: Ziah Jones, Dennis C. Woods III (Trey), Solomon J. Brooks, Robert D. Brown, Morea Carney, Mikayla Prude, Lauren Hudson, Lauren E. Collins, Kristianna G. Young, Kennedy Lovett, Kaytlin Small, Kamden Blackburn, Kailey Collier, Cameron Barnes, Ava Jemison, Autumn Haddox, Alivia Dove, Aiden Woods, Abraham Cromartie V, Alexandra Jones, Brendon Bowie, and Gabrielle Bowie. Each author contributes their unique perspective and voice, enriching the book’s tapestry with their individual experiences and insights.
“I am in awe of their voices,” said Courtney L. Woods, president of the Nashville Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. who wrote the foreword to the book. “What they have to say and how they express themselves illustrates how Black teens see themselves in America and the world beyond.”
The release of Sincerely, Black Teens is a landmark moment for the Nashville Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and a beacon of inspiration for young people everywhere to use their voices powerfully and purposefully. It stands as an essential read for anyone looking to gain insight into the lived experiences of Black teens in today’s America and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of youth expression and activism.
Net proceeds for the book go to the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. with a focus on addressing issues affecting African American children and families through investing in programs that provide quality education, healthcare, and a safe environment.
The book can be purchased online at truevinepublishing.org
