Book Donation

Patrice McLaurin is a success story. Raised in one of the nation’s most dangerous cities, she left Bessemer, Alabama, and pursued her dream of becoming a published writer and is now a best-selling author, activist, and owner of the boutique publishing house, KhemRah Publishing. Despite those stupendous achievements, she’s never forgotten where she came from. 

Though she lives in Georgia, Patrice is planning a trip back to Bessemer to host a free author’s visit in collaboration with the school system’s annual Literacy Night. With titles like Have You Thanked an Inventor Today? and I Am Because I Choose, Patrice’s books celebrate discovery, diversity, and social-emotional learning. She’s hoping to bring the enthusiasm to Bessemer so that she can inspire students to imagine bright and bold futures.

Patrice will personally deliver free books to Bessemer scholars and incorporate reading comprehension games to demonstrate just how fun learning can be! Our grant will help her purchase 100 books for distribution.  

For Patrice, the aim is simple: to show children “that being from a marginalized community doesn’t always end in despair. There is hope. I am tangible proof.” Now that’s the kind of story worth telling.