Dawud Anyabwile is a renowned comic book artist and illustrator known for his dynamic and culturally resonant work. With a distinctive style that blends realism and fluidity, Anyabwile has made significant contributions to the world of graphic storytelling. He gained widespread acclaim for his collaboration with his brother, Guy A. Sims, on the groundbreaking graphic novel series "Brotherman: Dictator of Discipline." Anyabwile's artistry captivates readers and serves as a powerful vehicle for social commentary and representation. Through his creative endeavors, Anyabwile inspires and influences aspiring artists while leaving an indelible mark on the comic book industry.

Channing Chasten, a professional footballer, shared his love for reading and how his mother encouraged him. He discussed his journey as a multisport athlete, including soccer, lacrosse, baseball, and track, and how his desire to stand out influenced his decision to pursue soccer. channing also shared his experiences balancing soccer and academics, playing soccer at Ohio State, and transitioning to professional soccer in Arizona. He also revealed his enjoyment of writing since childhood and his recent achievement as an author. Finally, Channing expressed his plans to start a foundation for underprivileged children to participate in organized soccer clubs, his nonprofit work, and his motivational content on social media.

Knowledge Reigns Supreme

Join us this Black Music Month with special guest Bakari Kitwana and let's talk about 'Leveraging MC Dreams Towards Literacy'.

Black culture encapsulates a colorful oral tradition that can be seen in the West African tradition of the Griot, the Black Arts Movement, to today's Hip Hop Generation, as recently seen in Kendrick's Mr. Morale & the Big Stepper.

We have continually seen the 'Us vs. Them' Hip Hop history debates. How can we better create The Bridge to work collectively to create intergenerational ties to Black oral and written stories and literary traditions to build strong young black male communicators of The Message?

Bring your thoughts, opinions, pedagogy, scholarship, and questions as we discuss our music and literary history to build our young Black Brotha's voices.

Join us as we talk about his latest publication: Teaching Black Boys in the Elementary Grades: Advanced Disciplinary Reading and Writing to Secure Their Futures, growing up in Chicago,  his reading habits, the influence of public libraries, and much more!

The Burning House: Educating Black Boys in Modern America by Desmond Williams

We will celebrate her space in children's literature as an author who has given voice to Black historical people and places for all to learn. We also learn about her influence on her son Jeffery who is a Poet, MC, and Illustrator.

Dr. Guy Sims, Philly native,  co-creator of the critically acclaimed Brotherman comics books takes time to share his story with us! He is a frequent collaborator with his brother, illustrator Dawud Anyabwile. He adapted Walter Dean Myers' book Monster into a graphic novel which Mr. Anyabwile illustrated.

Dr. Sims discusses, the role literacy played in his life, writing, the story behind Brotherman comics, retelling Monster for a new generation, and much more...

Publishers Cheryl and Wade Hudson, of Just Us Books,  will discuss their critically acclaimed new releases 'Recognize' and 'Defiant' and also talk about supporting Black publishers, authors, and bookstores this holiday season.

Join us as We Are Here Lit! invites guest interviewer Middle School Scholar-Athlete James to interview Track Olympian and Businessman Kenny Selmon about discovering track, being in the Olympics, balancing school and athletics, defining your identity beyond sports, and more.