Storyteller: Tonya Duncan Ellis

Tonya Duncan Ellis has had her nose in a book since she learned to read, so it’s no surprise that she’d one day become a writer. She is the author of the Sophie Washington children’s book series, a former journalist, and a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and the Authors Guild. Fluent in French, Tonya loves learning about other cultures and has traveled to 49 states and 20 countries. She lives in Houston, Texas with her husband and three children.

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Tonya On Writing for Children:

“I was inspired to write my children’s series after I noticed a lack of diversity when reading with my three kids. I’ve always been an avid reader and am proud to create relatable books for children that spark a love of literature. As a child of limited means, books opened the world to me, causing me to dream of a life beyond my hometown in Louisville, KY, sparking an interest in travel, history, languages and so much more. I strive to create the same experience for my readers.”

Would you like to see and purchase titles from our Storyteller cohort and members of The Brown Bookshelf?

THE LITERARY CAFE–BOOKS & EVENTS Bookstore Amplify Black Stories Book List, Curated by The African American Children’s Book Project showcases a wide range of topics and talent from the Black Literary Community, including our cohort of Storytellers and members of the Brown Bookshelf. The list includes both non-fiction and fiction titles that will empower, enlighten and enrich all readers. Visit the bookstore.

See all Storytellers in the 2021 Amplify Black Stories cohort.