Begin by introducing your readers to your new books. Provide a brief overview of what they can expect and share your excitement about the release.
The Inspiration Behind the Books
The inspiration behind “Black & White Make Gray” was my own childhood experience. I remember being in 1st grade and learning about colors in art class. We were mixing them and when I mixed black and white, it made gray! For the majority of my young life, I had been told I was “black and white,” so you can guess how confused I was when I looked at my skin and it was definitely not gray. Hence, this amazing tale of a little girl learning what skin tone is!
“Gentle, Gentle, Little Dragons” was inspired by the children I have nannied with siblings. There have been countless situations where the older sibling was just a little too rough during play time with their younger sibling. Though the children were small, I always found them to be much stronger than they realized so over the years a part of what I taught as a nanny was gentle play. Thus, my little dragons, Theodore and Harlowe were born!
The Characters and Setting
Since “Black & White Make Gray” is based on a true story, this is one of the only books I will write using my name! The little girl, Dominique, in my book is born to an African-American mother, and a European-American father, just like me. Where I grew up, this was rare so I figured it was nice to see representation of my own existence in a children’s book.
Theodore and Harlowe are dragons in an ancient and magical land filled with palm trees and friendly ferns.
Themes and Life Lessons
In each children’s book that I write there is a section of questions at the back of the book for parents to ask their children. The questions are focused on the lessons of the book so the parent can gently guide their child or children while allowing them to think for themselves! Children are smarter than we think so let their brains soar!
The lesson in “Black & White Make Gray” is cultural diversity and understanding multiracial families.
The Writing Process
I’ve been sitting on these books for a little over a year now. I developed the plot for them when I got the random creative thought. Most of the time, memories would spark the creative flow. I created the characters in “Gentle, Gentle, Little Dragons” based off their names. I wanted to use names I don’t see written often in children’s books. The structure of the stories is in a pattern that leads parents into thoughtful conversations with their children. I see my books being read at bedtime so I think these books are the perfect way to end an evening connecting with your child and giving them something to think about as they drift off to sleep.
Target Audience and Reading Level
My books are intended for children from 2 years old to 11 years old. They are picture books for young children to enjoy. “Gentle, Gentle, Little Dragons would be best suited for very young children and “Black & White Make Gray would be best suited for children in preschool to elementary school.
Why These Books Matter
These books are unique because they come from my own experience so I know children, parents, and child caretakers can relate. They reach both the general and niche audiences looking for books that will cause the need for conversation. My books are set apart from other children’s books because of the questions at the end. Many stories have great lessons and themes but sometimes it is hard for parents and caregivers to know how to guide the questions their young ones have. So, giving questions that help the child to think is definitely a driving force in why these books should be on your shelf.
Early Feedback and Reviews
Thus far, I have received positive reviews from family, friends, and complete strangers.
How to Get Your Hands on a Copy
You can search the books names or my name on amazon.com [Dominique Leshay Alston; Gentle, Gentle Little Dragons; Black & White Make Gray] and you will find the paperback copy and Kindle reader version of each book!
The Journey Continues
Thank you so much to my readers for your support. I am so excited for you to experience the adventures within my books and my soon to come future children’s books.
Call to Action
I encourage you to leave comments, share this blog post, and, most importantly, check out my books!
Life, Lessons, and Luxury 
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