Linebaugh Public Library is pleased to host local authors Antonia Royal-Whitmore and Carmen Maples for book signings geared for children in March. Whitmore is the author of Boys Wash Their Hands Too, along with several other works. She will be at Linebaugh on Thursday, March 10, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Carmen Maples, the author of Gigi’s Little Dreamer, will be at the library on Thursday, March 24, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Antonia Royal-Whitmore
Due to the recent and unexpected events that are still taking place, Boys Wash Their Hands Too was created to remind and educate young readers on the importance of hand washing. Written in English and Spanish, the book encourages children to learn and explore alternative languages. Whitmore challenges the gender stereotype that boys are always dirty and never wash their hands. Boys Wash Their Hands Too is a literary and visual tutorial for children to know when and how to wash their hands.
Antonia Royal-Whitmore is the founder of Mind of Gold to create and provide representative media and literature. Using her unique writing skills, Whitmore is an advocate for Black mental health, Black survival, and Black progression. She specializes in African-American psychology copywriting, including African-American lifestyle, behavior, and overall experiences.
Her children’s books and coloring book are $15 each, and her two workbooks are $25. She takes cash, cashapp, Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle.
Carmen Maples
Inspired by a bond from a first-time grandmother, Gigi’s Little Dreamer highlights the relationship between a grandmother and her granddaughter. For this little girl, there is no greater joy than visiting her grandma Gigi. It is a place where unforgettable memories are made and inspiring adventures are had. This charming rhyming picture book created by Carmen Maples paired with playful illustrations from Jasmine Mills is the perfect book for any occasion.
Memphis, Tennessee native and author, Carmen Maples had a vision to create a children's book after the birth of her daughter Chloe. In 2019, Gigi's Little Dreamer was created, a story book highlighting her mom and daughter’s special bond. She realized the lack of diversity in children's books and wanted to share her story with others so that little brown skin kids could see people that looked like them in books. Since then The Maples Corner book collection has grown, adding Chloe's ABCs, an affirmation coloring book and Chloe and Her New Farm Friends. Carmen wants to continue creating books inspired by her daughter Chloe's experiences.
Carmen Maples will be signing and selling copies of her book for $11 each. Cash, cards, and cash app accepted.
Linebaugh Public Library is located at 105 W. Vine St. in Murfreesboro. Smyrna Public Library is located at 400 Enon Springs Rd. West in Smyrna. Eagleville Bicentennial Public Library is located at 317 Hwy 99E in Eagleville. MGL Library is located inside Patterson Park Community Center at 521 Mercury Blvd. in Murfreesboro. The Technology Engagement Center is located at 306 Minerva Drive in Murfreesboro. The Historical Research Center (HRC) is located at 435 Rice Street in Murfreesboro. Explore, Imagine, Engage through RCLS. For more information, call 615-893-4131 or visit rclstn.org.
