We were lucky to catch up with Geraldine Andre-Major recently and have shared our conversation below.

Geraldine, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

In the midst of the pandemic, when the world was filled with uncertainty, I found myself at a crossroads. As a Head Preschool Teacher, I was furloughed from my job, a role that had been a source of fulfillment and joy. However, instead of feeling sad for myself, I chose to view this as an opportunity, a chance to pursue a dream I had long harbored – writing a children’s book. My children, my greatest inspirations, became the muse for my first self-published children’s book, titled “Don’t Stop, Don’t Quit, and Never Give Up”. The title, a testament to resilience and perseverance, mirrored my own journey during these trying times. Taking this leap of faith was not without its risks, but I’m glad I did. It was a venture into the unknown, a risk that brought with it a sense of accomplishment and a reaffirmation of my belief in the power of resilience. This endeavor not only allowed me to channel my creativity but also served as a beacon of hope during a time when it was most needed.

In 2020, the decision to write a children’s book, inspired by my three children, was far from a walk in the park. My oldest, Maximillian, was a lively 6-year-old, Marley, a curious 4-year-old, and Maverick, a few months old, was just beginning to explore the world around him. Juggling the responsibilities of motherhood with the daunting task of writing a book seemed like an uphill battle. However, amidst the chaos and the challenges, I found an unwavering pillar of support in my husband, Maurice. His belief in me was steadfast, often stronger than my own faith in myself. His encouragement was the wind beneath my wings, propelling me forward on this journey.

Fast forward to June 2024, and the fruits of that labor of love are evident. I have sold over 3,000 copies of my book, a testament to its resonance with readers. I’ve had the privilege of conducting more than 20 public readings, sharing the magic of my story with eager audiences. I’ve visited multiple schools as an author, inspiring young minds with the power of words and imagination.

My work has been recognized and celebrated in various ways. I was honored as the Author of the Month, a recognition that filled me with immense pride. During Black History Month, my book and I were celebrated, highlighting the importance of diverse voices in literature. Women’s History Month brought another round of recognition, underscoring the role of women in shaping the literary landscape. And in the month of April, I shared Autism awareness with my latest book “Through Maverick’s Eyes”.

Perhaps one of the most heartwarming moments was seeing my book on the shelves of my local library in Newington. Knowing that my story was accessible to children in my own community, potentially sparking a love for reading, was incredibly fulfilling.

This journey, which began as a leap of faith during a challenging time, has transformed into a rewarding adventure, touching not just my life, but the lives of thousands of young readers. It’s a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of never giving up, and the magic that can happen when you dare to chase your dreams

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am Geraldine Andre-Major, affectionately known as Geri, a proud Haitian American woman who embodies resilience, determination, and a passion for education. Born in the vibrant borough of the Bronx, New York, to Haitian parents who journeyed to this country in search of better opportunities, I am a testament to their dreams and sacrifices. Raised in the culturally diverse city of Mount Vernon, NY, I was instilled with core values that have shaped my character and guided my path. My upbringing was steeped in the rich Haitian culture and traditions, which have imbued me with a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for my heritage.

My academic journey led me to attain a Master’s Degree in Childhood Education, a pursuit driven by my unwavering passion for teaching. This accomplishment is not just a testament to my dedication, but also a reflection of my commitment to lifelong learning.

As an educator, I strive to inspire young minds, fostering their curiosity and encouraging them to reach their full potential. I believe in the transformative power of education and am dedicated to creating an inclusive and stimulating learning environment.

Today, I stand as a beacon of hope and a symbol of perseverance, a woman who dared to dream and had the courage to pursue those dreams. I am Geri, a wife, a daughter, a mother, an educator, and an author, continually striving to make a difference, one child, one book, and one classroom at a time

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Being an African American woman and a self-published children’s book author is a unique and rewarding journey. It offers the opportunity to tell stories that reflect my children, Ultimately, it’s about making a difference and inspiring young minds through the power of storytelling. It makes my heart smile, when a child sees themselves in my characters, and they can relate to the story.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

In my latest book, “Through Maverick’s Eyes”, my mission extends beyond just telling a story. It’s about fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding by highlighting the beauty of our differences. As the mother of a non-verbal Autistic child, Maverick, I’ve experienced firsthand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with this journey. Maverick’s world is different, but it’s not less. It’s filled with vibrant colors, unspoken words, and a perspective that’s as unique as it is beautiful.

Every page of this book is a testament to Maverick’s resilience and the unyielding love we have for him. It’s about celebrating him, not in spite of his Autism, but because of it. His Autism isn’t a condition to be cured, but a part of his identity to be embraced and understood.

But this book isn’t just for us. It’s for every reader, young and old, to gain a glimpse into Maverick’s world. It’s for the parents navigating a similar path, offering them a sense of camaraderie and understanding. It’s for the children who are meeting someone like Maverick for the first time, instilling in them empathy and acceptance that extends beyond the pages of this book.

Ultimately, “Through Maverick’s Eyes” is more than just a book. It’s a bridge connecting diverse experiences, a beacon fostering understanding, and a celebration of the beautiful spectrum of human differences. It’s a testament to the fact that every voice matters, spoken or unspoken, and every journey, no matter how different, has the power to touch hearts and change perspectives. Through Maverick’s eyes, we see a world that’s different, and through his story, we learn to celebrate these differences. Because in the end, it’s our differences that make us uniquely beautiful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.majorchildrensbook.com
• Instagram: https://geri.major
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldine-major-357709214/
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/bUb_2GLsVoE?si=U-5dOw4zu7V6uWOV

Image Credits

Maurice Major (Husband)
Maximillian Major (10 yr son)
Marley Grace Major (8yr daughter)
Maverick Major (4yr son)