After I wrote Moon’s Ramadan I wasn’t ready to share it. I thought editors wouldn’t be interested in a “religious story.” I had internalized negative narratives about my faith.

I shared my manuscript for critique and my peers said, “Submit this book!” That’s when I realized, I had to look for the light, the positivity, the allies, the friends. And through out this journey they have been my source of joy.

Sharing a few photos from my SoCal Kids Museum appearance. I love their commitment to sharing diverse and inclusive programming. They have been a friend to my BIPOC author group, Kid Lit In Color and are a treasure for the Pasadena/LA community. (P.S. Should I share the date fingerprint craft we did to my blog?)

I still battle with my guarded thinking. It’s hard to experience hate and think everything is OK. But this next generation gives me so much hope. The last photo is my son Zayn hugging his friend Hudson, who is Taiwanese-Korean American. Gen alpha is going to change the world. 💜✨

In joy,

Natasha