Melanin Mel

This story is about a girl who has struggled with accepting who she is in terms of skin color because she never really had the space to. Mel has to overcome bullying as well as her own intrusive thoughts to a place where she really embodies what it means to be heavily melanated. She has a sort epiphany that it is up to her to create her own space and not conform to the constraints already laid out for her. Once Mel comes to this realization she feels obligated to share her newfound wisdom with others. It is truly a story of triumph and self love.

Ciara is a creative person, who by nature enjoys sharing learning experiences in a wide a range of disciplines. Discov- ering poetry at a young age, Ciara knew there was power in words and language that felt irresistible. After graduating with a master's degree in Education from Wilmington University, she worked on several short stories but felt little enthu- siasm for them. However, during the incredibly restrictive yet contemplative Covid period, inspiration suddenly hit, and Melanin Mel was born. Ciara commented that "This book has been a true labor of love." And with this launch Ciara is planning to share many more projects with the world. Stay tuned!
Ashley holds master's degrees in Strategic Leadership, Organizational Development and Education. She is a veteran educator, sharing her talent as a creative arts instructor with students in grades K through 12. Drawing and painting with young people daily reignited Ashley's passion to work in illustration. She and Ciara are long time best friends, sharing many dreams together, including this one. Melanin Mel is her first published short children's story. From this project Ashley expects to begin a gratifying career in illustration. Having committed her talents to this her dear friend Ciara's project, Ashley has promised that this work of art is just the first of many.