Tag: weekend reading

Steps to Growth? One Book at a Time

I spent some time on a special project last month that led me down memory lane – to the summer of 2023, when friends and family partnered with me to donate a literary step to Kenya Connect that featured the cover of my novel Watercolored Pearls.

This nonprofit based in a rural region of East Africa understands how fostering reading and literacy among youth and parents alike can uplift generations.

It was an honor to have the Watercolored Pearls step installed near book covers donated by my literary friends Kwame Alexander and Jerry Craft. Reflecting on the impact of giving youths daily exposure to books, and reading, lifted my hope.

As we enter this long holiday weekend, wherever you live in the world, I encourage you to visit your local library, bookstore or your own bookshelf and pick a book to read or re-read, while inspiring a young person in your life to do the same.

Reading can build knowledge and empathy, foster understanding and creativity, and ultimately, strengthen humanity.

In Times Like These, Words Matter

Here it is: That look (and heart smile) I get every time I hear from a reader how one of my books has entertained, blessed or inspired.

Stacy Hawkins Adams

Thanks to Deeda and Terri for touching base about Nothing But the Right Thing, to Sherry for letting me know Who Speaks to Your Heart gave her solace in her current life circumstances, while Erica shared that Watercolored Pearls did the same, and to the social media page Black Fiction Addiction for the shout-out to my novel Coming Home.

During stressful times like these, words can make a difference – both reading them and writing them.

Pull out a journal (or empty notebook) and let your pen flow with whatever fills your mind and heart – the good, the bad, the ugly, and I guarantee you’ll feel a little better. Encourage the young people in your life to do the same.

Then, find something good to read.

Need some inspiring quotes and musings to soothe you? Check out my recent compilation, Abound! Principles for Next Level Living, here: tinyurl.com/stacyabound

Seeking some spiritual food for thought? My devotional Who Speaks to Your Heart? may interest you: tinyurl.com/stacyheart

Want something fictional that both entertains and uplifts you? Check out one of my novels here: tinyurl.com/stacystories

And certainly, the work of my numerous fellow writers can meet your needs, too.

If you are joining me in shifting to teleworking over the next few weeks, lean into this time of lessened activity by still producing your best work, while taking care of you.

Stay safe and stay encouraged!