Holland Jordan
Author of MAGNIFICENT MOCHA MONTY, a delightful and beautifully illustrated book about a young child who loves his mocha colored skin. Through playful rhyme and colorful illustrations, this book encourages children to love the skin they’re in!
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About The Author
Holland Jordan is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). She has also been employed as an HIV case manager and a school social worker. She has recently retired from her position as a medical social worker for one of the largest healthcare systems in the United States. Holland graduated from the University of California, Berkeley and holds degrees in early childhood development, behavioral science, sociology, and a Masters in Social Work. She is a mother, grandmother and mentor to many in her community. This is her first book, inspired by her oldest grandson, Monty, and his two siblings. Holland currently lives with her husband in Georgia, and has a daughter who also lives in Georgia with her family.
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Holland loves doing school visits, readings at libraries, summer programs and other organized events. Her visit will include reading Magnificent Mocha Monty (MMM) and spending time answering questions children may have about the book. She will finish the visit with a book signing and will be available to take pictures with as many children as time permits. It is Holland's goal to re-assure all children they are unique, magnificent and amazing, and to encourage all children to celebrate their uniqueness. Fees for book readings and/or speaking engagements vary depending on the event.
Monty's Story
One hot summer day, after playing in the backyard, my 3-year-old grandson Monty and I decided to sit down and take a rest. We sat for a few minutes in our lawn chairs not talking but just breathing and enjoying our time together. Out of the blue he looked at me with his big brown eyes and said, "Grandma Abuela, I want to look just like you." Somewhat taken aback by his comment, I asked "You want to wear clothes like Grandma?” He became very quiet, appeared sad, and looked down at his shoes. Without ever looking up at me he said, "No Grandma Abuela, I want my skin to look like yours.” (I have a honey/beige skin tone and Monty has the most beautiful mocha brown skin tone.) In that very moment I felt as if my heart had been ripped out of my body and I could feel a tear forming in my eye. I thought to myself: Who has told my 3-year-old grandson something is wrong with the color of his skin and why? I realized immediately that Monty felt ashamed of his skin.
I knelt down in front of him, looked him straight in the eye and replied, “Monty you are magnificent, you are amazing, you are blessed.” The smile that began to form on his face was a sight to see. He pointed his finger at himself and said, “Grandma Abuela, I’m magnificent, I’m amazing.” I replied, “You are Magnificent Mocha Monty with the most Magnificent Mocha skin.” He began running around the yard shouting to his mom who was in the house. “Grandma Abuela says I am magnificent and amazing; I am Magnificent Mocha Monty!”
When children are taught to “Love the skin they’re in” and encouraged to celebrate who they are, children will believe they can achieve anything. Telling kids how awesome and incredible they are must be a 365-day-a-year ritual. Magnificent Mocha Monty builds self-esteem and promotes self-confidence in children of color; however, this book is not solely written for one demographic. It is important for all children to see and read about kids who are different than they are and to see them in a positive light. When we open up our children's hearts and minds at a very early age to diversity and inclusion, they grow up to become adults who treat others with dignity and respect.
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It is my goal to promote acceptance of diversity to children of all colors one book at a time!
Reviews
Both my godchildren loved reading this book from beginning to end. The story has such a powerful message with characters that look just like them. This book will definitely boost your child's self-esteem.
Rosie Turner-Chaney, RN
Awesome book that all children can relate to; especially small children learning about the differences in people's skin color.
DeRhonda Haynes, Social Worker
Representation matters. Beautifully written book with captivating illustrations and a positive message that provides opportunity for discussion. Both parents and children will love reading this book.
Keon Abraham, Project Manager