By Marc W. Polite
Good afternoon, everyone. In this week’s author profile, we hear from Jodi-Ann Francis. Jodi-Ann is the author of Harlem, New York: The Uptown Renaissance. In this interview, we find out what inspired Jodi-Ann to publish this book about the Harlem Renaissance.
Polite On Society: Who are you? Tell us about yourself. Could you tell us about yourself for our audience?
Jodi-Ann Francis:
I’m the creator behind Happy Hive Haven, a business dedicated to developing educational and engaging content that spans various mediums, including coloring books, games, and more. My background is in education, and creative writing, and I’ve always been passionate about finding creative ways to make learning accessible and enjoyable. As someone deeply committed to preserving and celebrating culture, I saw a unique opportunity to merge my love for history, education, and art through the creation of coloring books. The Harlem Renaissance has always fascinated me, and this project allowed me to bring that rich history to life for both children and adults in an interactive and meaningful way.
POS: What inspired you to create a coloring book about Harlem and the Harlem Renaissance?
JF: The Harlem Renaissance was a transformative period in American history that gave rise to incredible art, music, literature, and social change. However, despite its significance, many people don’t fully understand the depth and impact of this era. I wanted to create something that would not only educate but also inspire a new generation to appreciate the cultural legacy of Harlem. Coloring books are a fantastic way to do this because they invite people to engage with history in a hands-on, personal way. Each page of the book serves as both a canvas for creativity and a lesson in the history of Harlem, making learning an immersive experience.
POS: A coloring book is a unique teaching tool. Could you speak to the importance of passing on Black history using different approaches towards school-aged children?
JF: It’s crucial that we teach Black history in a way that is both engaging and accessible, especially for younger audiences. Traditional methods of teaching history can sometimes feel distant or abstract, but a coloring book allows children to interact with the material in a way that is tangible and relatable. By presenting historical figures, events, and cultural landmarks in a format that encourages creativity, we can foster a deeper emotional connection to the material. This kind of approach not only helps children learn but also empowers them to feel proud of the rich heritage they are a part of. The use of diverse educational tools, such as Harlem, New York: The Uptown Renaissance ensures that every child can find a point of connection to their history.
POS: What is one little-known fact about Harlem that people could learn from your coloring book?
JF: A fact you might learn from a Harlem Renaissance-themed coloring book is that the famous Cotton Club, a central hub for jazz and nightlife during the 1920s and 1930s, was originally a whites-only club despite featuring legendary Black performers like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Billie Holiday. The club’s segregated policies are a stark reminder of the racial divides during the Harlem Renaissance, even as Black art, music, and literature flourished and captivated the world.
POS: If there is one takeaway from this book that you want readers to get, what would it be?
JF: The one takeaway I hope readers gain from this book is the understanding that Harlem is not just a place on a map—it’s a symbol of creativity, resilience, and cultural pride. The Harlem Renaissance was more than an artistic movement; it was a declaration of identity and empowerment that continues to influence our society today. I want readers to feel inspired by the stories of the individuals who shaped this era and to recognize the ongoing significance of their contributions to American culture. Through this coloring book, Harlem, New York: The Uptown Renaissance , I hope to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and ultimately, instill a sense of pride in the rich history that Harlem represents.