REFLECTION & REASON

Once again, Seattle-based children's author Jeffrey Lee Cheatham II has created a charming tale of life's most significant messages and lessons, through some of the most loveable and charming characters. His personality shines through the pages: if you know Jeffrey, you know the jovial spirit of lightheartedness, kindness, and a thoughtful-yet-quiet intelligence. You know that he is always thinking of his community, and observing his surroundings. He is nurturing the young around him, and serving as a supportive and encouraging professional to his peers. For his third book, " What Happened When Charlie Met Claire ," he brings all of the feel-good sentiments and impactful lessons of his previous stories " The Family Jones and the Eggs of Rex ," " Why is Jane So Mad? " and " Hi Blue Sky ," and introduces us to the curious bird Charlie, and the cool and collected bear Claire, brilliantly illustrated by Johanna Puukila. Through this encounter...

Stories like More Than Enough are so important. Voices like Elaine Welteroth's are crucial. This book was an exceptional narrative about a young woman with a dream, and her journey towards realizing that dream. We need to hear stories like this, because it reminds us that not only are our aspirations acceptable, but that they are also attainable. There is a quote from Entertainment Weekly on the cover of the version I purchased that says this book is "the millennial Becoming ," and I have to agree. While I was equally as inspired by Michelle Obama's autobiography, I can definitely see the parallels in their experiences, despite their different industries. One thing that is consistent, is that both women remained true to themselves, and it was their authenticity and strong family support that often led the way. It was their personal truths, and understanding of themselves, that allowed them to break ceilings and influence millions. I love a good biography, because it ...

Since 2001, Tonya Williams has guided the annual Reelworld Film Festival in her hometown of Toronto, and spearheaded the development of this creative movement in support of Canadian filmmakers who are Black, Indigenous, and racialized. Even before it was hip and trendy to highlight diverse voices in the mainstream, Reelworld provided a consistent platform to allow Canadians to tell their stories and celebrate their truths on screen. Running this year from October 14th through the 29th, the Festival features a range of presentations, webinars, panels, short- and feature- films, and allows for the heightened profile of dedicated artists and programs in support of the film industry.  Moderated by Festival CEO/Founder Tonya Williams, a "One-on-One Conversation with Clement Virgo," took place on October 16 providing viewers with an hour-long glimpse into the director's inspiration and insights. This year--the Festival's 20th--Clement is being presented with the "Awar...