Jade Orlando Books

When Maya grows up, she wants to be a princess. Her mum suggests other occupations – scientist, athlete, brain surgeon – but Maya is determined that she wants to be a princess. Although maybe not the type of princess that her mum had in mind…

This boldly illustrated book introduces the reader to inspirational black women that they may not have read about before. Their names and achievements are introduced in the story with further details provided at the back of the book. This is a story that shows that you can be anything that you aspire to be, and that everyone should have high aspirations for themselves and others. Classrooms can always benefit from more books that feature black characters and that discuss black history. The illustrations by Jade Orlando feature children and adults with a wide range of diversity, from race to disability. Even though attention is not drawn to them through the text, they are easily visible and provide a mirror for other children to see themselves represented in books as well as a window for children to recognise the diversity around them. Thsi book would be a great addition to any classroom.