Advice
Former Marin City Resident and New Author, Niesha Roary, Appears at Library
As a former preschool teacher, Niesha Roary has read hundreds of children’s books. This inspired her to write her own children’s book. Roary’s writing mission is to increase the racial diversity in children’s literature.
By Godfrey Lee
Niesha Roary, who was born and raised in Marin City, shared from her first children’s book, “Very Victoria: Moving to Michigan” Saturday, December 4 at the Marin City Library on 164 Donahue St. The program was attended by youth and adults. The youths each received a copy of the book.
The book was illustrated by Kseniia Pavska. It was published by Regal Readers Publishing on November 8, 2021. The book can be ordered through Amazon or bought at Barnes and Noble for $12.99.
Roary, the daughter of Donnie Roary, who is also an alum of Performing Stars of Marin while growing up in Marin City,
Roary earned a master’s degree in Health Service Administration from Central Michigan University. She currently lives in Orion, Mich., and teaches at a community college.
As a former preschool teacher, Roary has read hundreds of children’s books. This inspired her to write her own children’s book. Roary’s writing mission is to increase the racial diversity in children’s literature.
“We need more of these role models so our young kids can see that you can grow up here, but you can be an achiever and you can be successful and give back to the community,” said Felecia Gaston, director of Performing Stars told the Marin IJ.
“Very Victoria Moving to Michigan,” is loosely based on Roary’s real-life experience of moving to Michigan. The reader will take a journey with Victoria as she describes her thoughts and feelings about her upcoming move to Michigan.
The Amazon book review says, “Victoria is a 6-year-old girl who lived in California with both her mother and father. One day Victoria’s mother sat her down to let her know that at the end of summer they would be moving to Michigan. Not only would Victoria have to move away from a familiar place, family and friends but her dad, also.
Victoria offers some insight into a child’s mind when adults make decisions that will ultimately affect the child. This book is ideal for parents and children to read together and discuss the child’s thoughts and feelings surrounding a new move.
With bold and colorful illustrations, readers will see how Victoria coped with her new reality. Most importantly this heartwarming book reminds us that the unbreakable connections between the ones we love go on, no matter how far apart you are.
Roary dedicates her book to her grandmothers: “Alberta Roary and the late Ida Banks for raising her to be the woman she is today.”
