Bücher von Shakeema Funchess

Meet Xiomara, a spirited child whose name holds the echoes of generations past. Her unique name, "Me Llamo Xiomara," is not just a label; it's a key that unlocks the doors to a world rich in tradition, culture, and family. But it's also a name that challenges those around her, leading Xiomara to adopt a simpler nickname to fit in.It's not until a special visit to her beloved Abuela Guadalupe, who shares the enchanting history and meaning behind "Xiomara," that everything changes. Armed with the knowledge of her heritage, Xiomara embraces her true name with pride."Me Llamo Xiomara" is a heartwarming tale of a young girl's journey to uncover the power of her identity and the beauty of her Hispanic culture. Join Xiomara as she learns the value of her name, the strength it carries, and the bonds it forges with her family and community.This enchanting story invites readers of all ages to celebrate the diversity of names and the richness of heritage, reminding us that a name is more than just a word - it's a piece of our soul.

"Julian's Jam: Strings of Joy" by Shakeema Funchess is an enchanting children's book that follows the musical journey of twelve-year-old Julian. Filled with passion and determination, Julian is a self-taught musician who has mastered the guitar, bassoon, and viola. However, his dreams reach even higher as he aspires to learn the accordion and become a Mariachi.From the very first page, readers are captivated by Julian's infectious love for music. Through vivid and engaging storytelling, Funchess introduces us to Julian's world, where melodies dance in the air and musical notes come alive. The author beautifully depicts Julian's dedication and perseverance in pursuing his dreams, inspiring young readers to believe in themselves and follow their passions.As Julian embarks on his journey to learn the accordion, the tale of resilience, highlighting the importance of practice, patience, and the support of loved ones is weaved. One of the book's standout features is its celebration of cultural diversity. Julian's aspiration to become a Mariachi shines a spotlight on the rich and vibrant traditions of Mexican music. "Julian's Jam: Strings of Joy" is not only an entertaining story but also an educational experience. At the back of the book, briefly about who the Mariachi are and why they should be celebrated. Funchess's writing style effortlessly engages children, making it an ideal choice for both independent reading and read-aloud sessions.Accompanied by charming illustrations that bring the story to life, "Julian's Jam: Strings of Joy" is a delightful read for children of all ages. Shakeema Funchess's heartwarming tale encourages young readers to pursue their dreams, embrace diversity, and find joy in the magic of music.

"The Adventures of Renata and Linus" is a heartwarming children's book about a young Jewish girl named Renata who moves to a small town in America from the Ukraine. Renata is eager to make new friends and explore her new home, but she soon discovers that the town is sad and lifeless.Despite the lack of pets, Renata is not alone for long. She soon meets Linus, a magical talking cat who may hold the key to the town's mysterious sadness. Together, Renata and Linus set out on a daring adventure to uncover the cause of the town's despair and bring joy back to the community.But their journey is not without challenges. A dark wizard named Deth seeks to stop them at every turn, and Renata and Linus must use their courage and wits to defeat him."The Adventures of Renata and Linus" is a story of friendship, bravery, and perseverance. It will captivate young readers and inspire them to explore the world around them, no matter how difficult the journey may seem.

In "Garrett's Wonderful World of Wonders: Learning about Differences with Curiosity and Kindness," readers will join Garrett on his adventures through a colorful village where he encounters people with different backgrounds, abilities, and cultures. With his natural curiosity and respectful approach, Garrett learns about the unique qualities that make each person special, and discovers that asking questions can be a fun and enriching experience. This children's book is a heartwarming tale that teaches kids the difference between being rude and being open when it comes to people who are different from them. With its playful yet thought-provoking tone, "Garrett's Wonderful World of Wonders" encourages children to embrace curiosity and respect, and to never be afraid of asking questions. The story is accompanied by vivid illustrations that bring the village and its inhabitants to life, making it a delightful read for both kids and adults. Whether at home or in the classroom, "Garrett's Wonderful World of Wonders" is the perfect book to spark conversations about diversity, empathy, and the importance of kindness.

"Sanjay's Double Rainbow: A Tale of Love and Unity" is a heartwarming children's book that celebrates the beauty of diverse families and the power of love and acceptance. The story revolves around Sanjay, a young boy who lives with his two moms, Fatima and Anjali.Sanjay loves his family, but when his friend Zahra asks him why he doesn't have a dad, Sanjay feels unsure of how to respond. With the guidance of his moms, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and understanding.Sanjay's moms lovingly explain to him that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that what truly matters is the love and care they share. They introduce him to the concept of LGBTQIA2S+ and help him understand that they are part of a strong community of diverse families and individuals who support and celebrate each other.With newfound knowledge, Sanjay gains the confidence to explain his family's unique structure to Zahra. He shares how his moms, Fatima and Anjali, provide him with love, support, and a nurturing home. Sanjay's message of love and unity touches Zahra's heart, and she learns to embrace the beauty of different families."Sanjay's Double Rainbow: A Tale of Love and Unity" is a gentle and uplifting story that teaches children about the importance of love, understanding, and embracing diversity. It encourages young readers to appreciate the many forms of family and the power of unity, leaving them with a heartwarming message of acceptance and inclusion.

"Rediscovering Pinkster" is an engaging and educational children's book that takes young readers on a fascinating journey into the vibrant history of the Pinkster Festival. Through colorful illustrations, this book brings to life the forgotten celebration of Pinkster, offering a valuable glimpse into African and African American heritage. Through vivid descriptions and kid-friendly language, readers will discover the various customs and traditions associated with Pinkster. They'll learn about the important role the festival played in providing respite for enslaved individuals, the vibrant markets where African and European cultures converged, and the lively dances and music that characterized the celebrations. Along the way, they'll encounter interesting facts about Pinkster, such as the crowning of the Pinkster King and the opportunity for enslaved Africans to subtly mock their captors through artistic expression. "Rediscovering Pinkster" not only educates young readers about this forgotten history but also emphasizes the resilience, creativity, and unity of African American communities. Through its pages, children will develop a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures and the importance of preserving and celebrating heritage. This captivating children's book combines storytelling, facts, and vibrant illustrations to bring the Pinkster Festival to life. It inspires children to explore history, embrace cultural diversity, and recognize the valuable contributions of African American traditions. "RediscoveringPinkster" is a delightful read-aloud or independent reading choice that sparks curiosity, fosters understanding, and encourages young minds to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of our shared past.

"The ABCs and the WNBA", a children's book that uses the alphabet to introduce young readers to the world of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).Each letter of the alphabet is used to highlight a different member of the WNBA, past and present. The book features colorful illustrations and fun facts about the WNBA and its players, making it an engaging and informative read for young basketball fans.Overall, "The ABCs and the WNBA" is a creative and educational way to introduce children to the world of professional women's basketball, while also promoting literacy and a love of reading.We aim to celebrate those who came before and those who now triumph in their creativity and contributions to the world. This alphabet book presents iconic names like Sheryl Swoopes, Candace Parker and Lisa Leslie.

"The ABCs and the NBA", a children's book that uses the alphabet to introduce young readers to the world of the Men's National Basketball Association (NBA).Each letter of the alphabet is used to highlight a different member of the NBA, past and present. The book features colorful illustrations and fun facts about the NBA and its players, making it an engaging and informative read for young basketball fans.Overall, "The ABCs and the NBA" is a creative and educational way to introduce children to the world of professional men's basketball, while also promoting literacy and a love of reading.We aim to celebrate those who came before and those who now triumph in their creativity and contributions to the world. This alphabet book presents iconic names like Kobe Bryant and Giannis Antetokounmpo.