Join us for this story time featuringSsanyu Lukoma's picture book Suubi's Sunny Smile and other great books for youth.

About Suubi's Sunny Smile:

Moving to a new school is complicated -- but making new friends is even more of a challenge! Especially after being bullied about the gap in his teeth, Suubi struggles with his self-image. In this story, Suubi learns more about himself, confidence, and his heritage through conversations with his parents and his teacher. Join Suubi on his journey to find his superpower!

Suubi's Sunny Smile is intertwined with prominent heritage and dental hygiene themes, but most importantly, anti-bullying. As a Black individual with an Afro-Caribbean background, Ssanyu Lukoma was compelled to write a story featuring Suubi, a main character of color as well. Suubi's inspiring narrative will show young readers that what makes us unique, can be our greatest strength.

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Ssanyu Lukoma is a teenage entrepreneur, author, and public speaker. At the age of 13, in 2018, she founded Brown Kids Read, a non-profit organization dedicated to motivating all children, but especially children of color, to read more diverse literature.

Since then, she has created an online and pop-up bookstore called The Brown Reads Bookshelf and hosts a podcast called The Book Junkie. She is a Junior Broadcaster for KiDz HuB Media Network and a member of the New Jersey Orators. She is also a member of Rays of Hope, a community service organization.

Most recently, she has become the author of a children’s picture book entitled SUUBI’S SUNNY SMILE. While publishing Suubi’s Sunny Smile, she founded a publishing company, Share a Smile Books, which is geared towards publishing children and teenagers who want to impact the world. Ssanyu’s ultimate goal is to be a positive role model and to inspire others.

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Note: This event is in-person and masks will be required of all children and adults ages 2 and older. Children MUST be accompanied by an adult during this story time.