It's you, me, us, everyone.
Representation = respect, understanding, compassion, awareness
Nightlight Stories publishes books that support young readers as they learn about different cultures, races, genders, and backgrounds. While it may be defined as diversity, we see it simply: We want every child to have the opportunity to read a book and say,
“Hey, that’s me!”
Judith Caseley, our developmental editor for children’s books, shares her thoughts. “As an author and illustrator, I create my books with a wide variety of children. I want children to recognize themselves in a story. Some wear glasses. Some have red hair. Others navigate life from a wheelchair or wear a prosthesis.”
Lessons in Grace and Love
Sometimes it’s the smallest of details that can make children feel included or seen, or a little less “different.” Caseley suggests mining your own life and jotting down stories told by family members. Hold conversations, listen to everyone, especially children. It could very well be that a book is just waiting to be written from those nuggets of real life that you learn.
"Several of the books I wrote depict my Grandma Rebecca's experiences,” Caseley said. “How she came over from Russia and didn’t know what a banana was, eating the peel instead of the banana. Her experience with her father who carried a sack of potatoes to her graduation school play because that was how he made a living. She loved him dearly but still, she felt shame when they rode home together on the subway and she pretended not to know him. He forgave her and at the end of the book they drank tea together. There was grace and love." Caseley added, “I read this story to a child who told me, ‘Sometimes I’m embarrassed by my grandma. She talks really loud.’ Lessons in books shouldn’t hit the child on the head, but hint at solutions, like forgiveness, and letting go.”
Nightlight Spotlight
As we celebrate our new imprint, Nightlight Stories, we're shining a light on some notable children's books published by Mission Point Press. Incredible authors, wonderful stories. Have your own story to tell? Vision to share? Reach out—we'd love to talk with you!
They Called Me Burnt Head Collard Green, A True Story About Overcoming Bullying
Maxine Thomas Davis
Maxine Thomas Davis was burned in an accident when she was very young. Her family never talked about her scars, and soon she forgot about them. At school she had a kind and thoughtful teacher, and no one pointed or called her names. But after moving, students at her new school acted like Maxi was a monster and they called her Burnt Head Collard Greens. Young Maxi shows us how it feels to be different because of a physical defect but how with courage and a teacher’s help, it can get better.
“Working with Mission Point Press was incredibly rewarding. As a first-time author, the publishing process felt overwhelming but the team’s patience and guidance made everything manageable. Thanks to Mission Point Press, my book quickly gained interest and positive reviews. For a truly satisfying publishing experience, I highly recommend Mission Point Press!”
The Author
Award-winning artist and United States Air Force National Guard veteran Maxine
Thomas Davis was born in Meridian, Mississippi. She started her art journey at age
six, drawing and painting on the walls of her parents’ home. In middle school and
high school, she honed her skills by creating portraits of her classmates.
She eventually put her artistic pursuits on hold while she raised her family. Asked
to create a mural for her church, her passion for art was reignited and she pursued a
degree, studying fine arts and graphic design. Specializing in graphite pencil illustration,
Maxine has illustrated nine books. Burnt Head Collard Greens, an emotional
account of her childhood, is her tenth and her debut as an author. She has three
daughters and seven grandchildren.
Ready to Light the Way?
If you're ready to be a part of this illuminating imprint, start your journey today by submitting your manuscript to Mission Point Press.
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