Donnette Black Writes for Kids!

In October Mom to Madre met Donnette Black at the Orange County Children’s Literature Festival. Donnette is a mother of two children, as well as an author. She graciously gave us a copy of her book. It is a lovely, true story about the first African American millionaire- a woman. Madam C.J. Walker’s Road to Success is a very interesting biography, readable for school age children, and engaging for adults. Mohamed Qoviz charmingly illustrates the book. Donnette’s book was our introduction to Madam C.J. Walker, and we were glad to read about this enterprising woman, who certainly “beat the odds.”

Mom to Madre gave our copy to a young mom of six kids at a “Literacy Night” held at a prominent social service program in San Diego that assists families in need of affordable housing. The next time we met, her report on Donnette’s book was glowing! The family really enjoyed it and they are adding it to their book collection. The mother commented, “Kids need more books on role models like this one.” Donnette loved hearing this-she was the oldest of six children herself-and finding and writing about wonderful African American role models for children is her goal.

Madam C.J. Walker’s Road To Success
 By Donnette Black is being considered for nomination to the NAACP Image Award- Children’s Literature Section. Best of Luck Donnette! You have our vote.

Here is a recent interview with Donnette from Los Angeles Black Parent Magazine On-Line.

Madam C.J. Walker’s Road To Success 
By Donnette Black


What is your most recent book? Tell us a bit about it.

“Madam C.J. Walkers Road To Success”
It’s a children’s book that educates readers on the story of Sarah Breedlove better known as Madam C.J. Walker who struggled to success through poverty and other misfortunes and became not only America’s first self made female millionaire but also America’s first African American millionaire.

Tell us something about yourself.
I was born in Oakland Ca, where I developed my passion for people working and volunteering at both home schools and private schools tutoring school age children. I’ve written poetry for several years. However, I started and facilitated a teen girl’s book program where I started to see the impact writing could have. I saw it as a new avenue to reach our children and decided why not write the books that they would read.

What inspired you to write this book?



I want to promote children’s pride and awareness about African culture. 

Be it African American or Black people of African decent living, born or raised in any country, there is a critical need for children to learn about Black heroes and historical figures. It is important to learn about the black people who have made great contributions in history and to get away from the stereotypes that we are not always connected to entertainment or sports industries. We, as African American’s, have a lot of accomplishments that are over looked and discredited.

How did you choose the title?

I wanted a title that advised the parents and teachers that this book was going to explain Madam Walker’s journey to success and not just her business accomplishments! There are books that explore her company but not many that praise and educate children about Madam C.J. Walker as a woman.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

It goes without saying I love spending time with my son and daughter but I also paint and I love photography!

Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?


I’ve received really good responses from teachers, parents and children!
Most readers say that they are impressed with the delivery of her story because her life was very trying. I also hear that people love the facts that were provided and real photos that are included in the end of the book. Some parents tell me that they feel encouraged to accomplish their own goals after reading my book. The responses have been a blessing to me. I love to hear from readers.

Tell us your latest news?

I recently had my first television interview on “Literary Speak” with Cheryl Thomas on KPAS Television Network in Pasadena, California. It was an incredible experience.
I’m also wrapping up the illustrations on my second children’s book about Marcus Garvey, And writing an animated T.V series.

Where can readers learn more about you and your book?

The best place is though my website at www.donnetteblack.net.


Mom to Madre thanks the LA Black Parents Magazine On-line for sharing this interview with us. It is so nice to know both Donnette Black and Madame C. J. Walker.