“Mama, Mama” at the Sitting Room Library in Penngrove

Hello, Friends!

October is Filipino American History Month and to celebrate it, the Sitting Room Community Library of the City of Penngrove, through its curator, Sheila Bare, invited me to read Mama, Mama. What an honor!

The drive, though a bit long, was definitely worth it. The stretch of vineyards and clear blue skies did my soul some good (even though I was listening to a depressing NPR talk show about the upcoming election season).

At the library, I got to share the space with a very inspirational Filipina poet, Eileen Tabios. I also met many of the library's patrons, many of whom purchased multiple copies to give as presents to the children in their lives. There was plenty of yummy treats, including chicken adobo with pan de sal, pancit, and a creamy cheesy pie by JJ Wilson who runs the library.

I'm so grateful for these opportunities extended to me by others who believe in the value of publishing books that foster inclusion of children of color.

I hope for more!