It's Rough Out There

In the heart of a bustling urban neighborhood, where the hum of city life intertwines with the echoes of history, Jamal embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Uncomfortable with living in his never-a-dull-moment, boisterous neighborhood, Jamal wants out. His parents love living in the community, but Jamal is determined to convince them to pack up and move. This heartfelt tale follows Jamal as he navigates the complexities of his surroundings, transitioning from a perspective clouded by discontent to one filled with appreciation and understanding.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of a community shaped by economic hardship and systemic unfairness. Yet, amidst these challenges, Jamal's parents help him discover a vibrant tapestry of human connection and resilience. Through the lens of youthful curiosity, he explores the hidden gems of his neighborhood, encountering familiar faces and cherished memories. From the playful banter with friends to the quiet moments of reflection, Jamal captures the essence of everyday life in his rough neighborhood.

Several poignant encounters punctuate Jamal's journey, revealing a deeper layer of the neighborhood's character.

As the story unfolds, Jamal's perspective undergoes a profound transformation. He begins to discern the beauty in the ordinary, strength in the fragile, and love in the unlikable. The once-annoying sounds of the city now serve as a poignant reminder of the vibrant pulse of life. The familiar streets, once perceived as chaotic and out of control, now evoke a sense of nostalgia and belonging, inspiring him to see his neighborhood and the world in a new, more appreciative light.

Tender reminders of a special friend add a layer of personal warmth to the narrative. The shared laughter and quiet moments of friendship underscore the profound power of human connection. Jamal discovers the irreplaceable value of friends, family, and community through these intimate reflections.

This coming-of-age story reminds us that beauty exists everywhere, even in the most unexpected places. By shifting our focus from the negative to the positive, we can unlock a world of wonder and appreciation. Jamal's journey invites us to look beyond the surface and embrace the richness of our surroundings.

Michol Whitney, a Chicago, Illinois native, boasts a rich and diverse career in education. She has taught in parochial, private, and public schools, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to teaching students from various backgrounds. Michol earned her degree from Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois, specializing in General Education, Special Education, and English as a Second Language. With over 20 years of experience, Michol has honed her skills in engaging with children through the power of storytelling and reading. Her passion for literature and writing was evident from a young age; as a child, she delighted in narratives written in verse and often crafted short poems using her family's encyclopedia of rhymes. In high school, she further explored her love for writing by composing a rap about herself and encouraging her friends to do the same. Michol draws inspiration from current events, seamlessly integrating them into her teaching and writing. She firmly believes in the transformative power of reading and writing, allowing children and adults to escape into realms of imagination and wonder. Kayla Hargrove's love for drawing and creating character designs is not just a hobby but a lifelong dedication. Her fascination with art, which began in childhood, has shaped her into the artist she is today. Her art, heavily inspired by Western cartoons, is not just a profession but a way of turning dreams into reality. She is always eager for new projects.Kayl's work includesTimmy's World of Wonder by Sarah Branham, Raina and the Lazy Snowflakes by Sophia Diogene, Dad Keeps Sleeping by Melissa McDonald, Children's Yoga for PeaceMindED, Beautiful Like the Congo by Pamela Wilson, I Am Royalty by Pamela Wilson, Go Away, Cor-No-No!, Love has No Skin Tone, I Did It In 2020, A Thanks Big Enough, A Friend Would Say Goodbye, Nova Learns Online, and Happy Everything to You by Michol Whitney.

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