Tasha's Voice

In this companion to the ground-breaking Where's Rodney?, a Black girl finds connection on a day out in nature.Tasha is a girl who has trouble finding her voice to speak in school or to even make a friend. Then her class visits a park, the best park ever. With the help of an encouraging park ranger, an understanding teacher, some new companions, and a tiny turtle, Tasha finds her voice amidst the wildflowers. This story takes place on the same class trip featured in Carmen Bogan's and Floyd Cooper's Where’s Rodney?, once more showing the power of nature to transform a child.Beloved illustrator Floyd Cooper began the illustrations for this book; his mentee Daria Peoples finished them. In the back of the book, readers will learn how the book was completed following Cooper's passing in 2021 and will find two of his original sketches. 

Carmen Bogan’s inspiration for Tasha’s Voice and Where’s Rodney? came from her work with non-profit organizations supporting public health through outdoor experiences. She is also the author of Willis Watson Is a Wannabe, illustrated by Cheryl Thuesday. Carmen has two adult daughters and a grandson, and lives in Oakland, California, with her husband, Willie.  Floyd Cooper illustrated more than one hundred books for children, wrote many himself, and was awarded significant accolades in his lifetime, including a Caldecott Honor, a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award and several Honors, and a Sibert Honor. His work often focused on Black history and celebrated Black joy. Floyd lived in Easton, Pennsylvania, and is survived by his wife, Velma; their sons, Dayton and Kai; and his grandchildren. Daria Peoples is the author-illustrator of five picture books, including Hello, Mister Blue and America, My Love, America, My Heart, and also illustrates the works of others. As a Diversity Fellow for the Highlights Foundation, she was mentored by Floyd Cooper. Daria lives in Las Vegas, Nevada.