Today we’re excited to be connecting with Artika Tyner again. We’re excited to feature one of their products in our gift guide – learn more below and we encourage you to use your gift budget to support small businesses & creatives whenever possible.

Artika, so thrilled to have you joining us again, this time to talk all about products and so let’s jump right in. Please give our audience some background on the product side.
At PPGJ Books, our mission, “Learn to Read, Learn to Lead,” is rooted in the belief that literacy and leadership go hand in hand. Our work focuses on empowering young readers through stories that reflect their diverse experiences while equipping them with the skills to become future leaders.

The Inspiration:
The idea for PPGJ Books was born from a desire to address two pressing needs: the lack of diverse representation in youth literature and the importance of leadership development for young people. Many books available today fail to reflect the rich multicultural tapestry of the world or to inspire readers to take on leadership roles in their communities. We saw an opportunity to bridge this gap by creating and curating resources that not only entertain but also educate and empower.

What Problem Does It Solve?
Our books and programs tackle two critical challenges:
1. Representation: Many young readers struggle to find characters and stories that mirror their own lives and dreams. This lack of representation can hinder their sense of belonging and self-worth.
2. Leadership Development: Youth leadership is often overlooked in traditional education. We aim to fill that void by fostering critical thinking, empathy, and confidence through engaging narratives.

What Makes PPGJ Books Unique?
Our approach is unique because it combines literacy with leadership development in a way that feels organic and engaging. Every book we offer celebrates diversity and inclusivity, featuring characters from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Beyond storytelling, our books incorporate themes and lessons designed to inspire young readers to think critically, act responsibly, and lead with empathy.

By blending relatable narratives with actionable insights, PPGJ Books offers more than entertainment—it’s a platform for growth and empowerment.

Who Are We Here For?
Our resources are designed for young readers who crave representation and inspiration, as well as for parents, educators, and caregivers who want to nurture the next generation of leaders. Whether it’s a child discovering the joy of reading or a teenager seeking role models and guidance, our books aim to meet them where they are and help them grow.

Why It Matters:
Representation in literature helps children see themselves as valued and capable, while leadership development prepares them to contribute meaningfully to their communities. At PPGJ Books, we’re not just promoting reading—we’re cultivating changemakers. By inspiring young readers to “learn to read and learn to lead,” we’re helping to shape a future that’s more inclusive, empathetic, and driven by a new generation of leaders.

Do you remember the moment you realized the world needed this product?
The moment we realized the world needed this product was both simple and profound. A little girl hugged her copy of “Justice Makes a Difference: The Story of Miss Freedom Fighter Esquire”, looked up, and said, “Daddy, that’s me.” It was a deeply moving reminder of the power of books to create connections and spark inspiration. That moment captured everything we strive for: helping young people see themselves reflected in the stories they read and empowering them to believe they can make a difference. We saw a gap in the marketplace where books often lacked diverse representation or meaningful lessons about leadership and activism. That little girl’s reaction affirmed our belief that stories like “Justice Makes a Difference” were urgently needed. When children recognize themselves in a character—whether it’s their identity, experiences, or aspirations—it fosters a profound sense of belonging and validation.
What We’ve Learned Along the Way
Since that unforgettable moment, we’ve learned just how impactful it is when young readers connect with characters who reflect their lives. Books like “Justice Makes a Difference” go beyond representation; they teach vital lessons about leadership, justice, and the idea that no one is too young to contribute to meaningful change.
Watching children connect with the character of Miss Freedom Fighter Esquire—a young girl learning that her voice and actions can make a difference—has been humbling and inspiring. It’s a reminder that stories have the power to cultivate confidence, empathy, and a sense of responsibility in young readers.
Why It Matters
Books like “Justice Makes a Difference” are more than stories; they’re tools for empowerment. They bridge the gap between imagination and reality, helping children see not only who they are but who they can become. That little girl hugging her book reminded us why we do this work—it’s about more than literacy or entertainment; it’s about inspiring young people to believe in themselves and their ability to lead, no matter how young they are.

Do you admire how others in the industry market their products? Who do you think does an admirable job of representing the industry?
We have a deep admiration for others in the industry who share a commitment to fostering inclusivity, representation, and meaningful community connections. Companies like Lil’ Libros, Strive Publishing, Wise Ink, and Military Family Books are incredible examples of how the power of storytelling can build a more just and inclusive society. Why We Admire Them:
• Lil’ Libros does a phenomenal job of celebrating culture and bilingualism, making it possible for children to connect with their heritage while embracing the beauty of diversity. Their work not only fills a critical gap in the market but also creates opportunities for families to share and honor their stories.
• Strive Publishing is leading the way in amplifying underrepresented voices. They ensure that authors of color have a platform to share their work and inspire the next generation. Their dedication to representation through authentic storytelling is something we deeply respect and strive to emulate.
• Wise Ink is a shining example of innovation and empowerment in publishing. They don’t just help authors create books—they foster community and purpose. Their focus on mission-driven publishing aligns closely with our values of using storytelling as a tool for change.
• Military Family Books has a remarkable ability to connect with a niche audience in such an authentic and impactful way. They honor the experiences of military families while creating books that bring communities closer together, a mission that reflects the power of stories to heal and unite.

What are you most thankful for?
We are most thankful for the incredible community of supporters who have rallied around our mission. Their dedication and enthusiasm have been instrumental in raising awareness about the importance of literacy and representation.

This community has helped us build meaningful connections and amplify the impact of our work. Whether it’s parents sharing our books with their children, educators integrating them into their classrooms, or advocates spreading the word about our mission, each contribution has been a vital part of our journey.

We are especially grateful for the way this community supports our efforts to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders—young people who challenge themselves, embrace diversity, and work to change the world. Their encouragement fuels our passion and reminds us that together, we can make a difference, one story at a time.