The When I See Me™ Children’s Book Fair is a joyful, high-impact literacy experience that helps children see themselves reflected in the stories they read. Featuring diverse authors, engaging activities, and our signature A Book in Every Bag™ initiative, this one-of-a-kind event inspires confidence, imagination, and a lifelong love of reading.
The When I See Me™ Children’s Book Fair is a literacy-centered, community-powered experience designed to help children see themselves as readers, leaders, and heroes.
Founded by award-winning author and literacy advocate Valerie J. Lewis Coleman, this nationally growing initiative was created to address a simple but powerful truth:
Children read more—and dream bigger—when they see themselves in books.
This is not a traditional book fair.
The When I See Me™ Book Fair centers representation, access, and engagement, featuring:
✔ Diverse children’s books by independent and traditionally published authors
✔ Stories that reflect Black and Brown children in joyful, empowering ways
✔ Interactive literacy experiences and author engagement
✔ School and community-based programming
✔ The signature A Book in Every Bag™ initiative
Every child leaves with a book.
Every child leaves feeling seen.
The When I See Me™ Children’s Book Fair is ideal for:
Elementary schools & districts
Libraries & literacy organizations
Community centers & faith-based programs
Family engagement events
Cultural and educational celebrations
Events can be hosted as:
School-day literacy experiences
Family literacy nights
Community book festivals
Special reading initiatives
Representation in literature builds:
Confidence
Reading engagement
Academic motivation
Cultural pride
Empathy and understanding
When children say, “That character looks like me,” they begin to believe:
“My story matters.”
That belief changes everything.
Visit the official When I See Me™ website to:
Learn how to host a book fair
View upcoming events
Partner as a school or organization
Support the A Book in Every Bag™ initiative
Discover how literacy changes lives
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