ICYMI // Marley Dias Has Landed A Book Deal

Photo Credit: Elle

Remember Marley? Most notably, she came onto our radar a year ago with her #1000BlackGirlBooks initiative to highlight books with black girls as the main characters, and it swept the nation. She's kind of a big deal. Not only is she creating awareness and doing the work in the name of representation, but she has also worked as an editor at ELLE.com. She collaborated with the magazine to create an original mini mag that featured fun shoots, think pieces, helpful guides and interviews with Ava DuVernay, Misty Copeland, Hilary Clinton and more. It was pretty dope too!

Photo Credit: Elle

Photo Credit: Elle

Well, her work in publication is far from over. Marley has signed a book deal with publishing company Scholastic! In a statement regarding this deal, the publisher said that at 12, Marley has already done more to promote inclusion and education than most grown ups. It is also clear to see that Marley believes she's at home within the publishing house, expressing that Scholastic was the perfect partner for spreading her message of diversity, inclusion and social action. This young queen is such an inspiration!

Her book is slated for spring 2018, and will be a "keep it real" guide to social action, according to Scholastic. Marley's purpose for her book to share "smart tips for 'paying it forward' with whatever makes your heart sing, while getting support from parents, teachers and friends to turn your dreams into reality. This book explores activism, social justice, volunteerism, equity and inclusion, using social media for good (not just makeup tutorials and angry tweets), and shows how young people can galvanize their strengths to make positive changes in our world."

I love how articulate and confident Marley is and how steadfast she is in the work that she's doing. I'm super excited for her book to release next year. Even though it will be for kids ages 10 and up, I will be taking full advantage of the "and up" part. LOL I can't wait to support!