How Cornbread Saved Kwanzaa

Book a School Reading Experience

Extend the magic of How Cornbread Saved Kwanzaa beyond the pages with an engaging experience for your students . Ralinda offers interactive author visits and educational programming designed to inspire curiosity, connection, and meaningful conversations around identity, heritage, and the power of community.

Perfect for December holiday celebrations, as well as January and February programming, these sessions weave together storytelling, history, and student-centered dialogue in ways that uplift and empower young learners.

Book an Author Visit Here

Bring home a signed copy of How Cornbread Saved Kwanzaa, a heartwarming children's book that celebrates the spirit of tradition, family, and community.

  • In this beautifully illustrated story, Amani, a young boy with a deep love for Kwanzaa, faces a challenge when a corn shortage threatens his favorite family tradition—making cornbread. But with creativity, kindness, and the support of a caring neighbor, Amani finds a way to share cornbread at his school’s Kwanzaa celebration. Along the way, he discovers the true meaning of the holiday and the power of unity, perseverance, and cultural pride.

  • Kwanzaa is a seven-day celebration observed from December 26 to January 1, honoring the heritage, community, and culture of the Black Diaspora. Each day centers on one of seven principles—Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. These values uplift and strengthen families and communities, inspiring connection, reflection, and action year-round.

  • Ralinda Watts is a writer, educator, and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) consultant whose work centers identity, culture, and community. As the founder of RalindaSpeaks, she facilitates transformative conversations and creates content that uplifts historically marginalized voices. With How Cornbread Saved Kwanzaa, her debut children’s book, Ralinda invites families to celebrate the joy and legacy of Kwanzaa, making space for children of all backgrounds to see themselves reflected and empowered.

Children's Book

How Cornbread Saved Kwanzaa-Signed Copy!

How Cornbread Saved Kwanzaa is a heartwarming story about Amani, a young boy who cherishes the tradition of making cornbread with his family during Kwanzaa. When a corn shortage threatens his favorite holiday, Amani learns the power of community, perseverance, and the joy of sharing traditions. With the help of a kind neighbor, Amani brings cornbread to his school celebration, lighting the way for his classmates and family to honor the principles of Kwanzaa. This beautifully illustrated book celebrates the importance of culture, connection, and carrying values into the new year and beyond.