"If there's a book that you want to read,
but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it."
-Toni Morrison
Our Story
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Welcome to Leap Forward Publishing - a platform where diversity and inclusion form the heart of our narrative. Our journey began with a vision, conceived by our founder Deborah C. Mortimer, to see a world of children's literature that mirrors the rich diversity of our global community.
The numbers reveal a stark reality: the landscape of children's literature is often not reflective of our diverse world. This is more than just a statistic to us; it's a call to action. At Leap Forward, we strive to bridge this gap, to elevate those stories and voices that resonate with our mission and reflect the myriad of human experiences and identities.
Diversity in children's literature is about more than just racial and ethnic representation. It encompasses the full spectrum of human experiences and identities. From cultural diversity to diversity in abilities, socio-economic status, religion, gender and more, children need to be exposed to the vast variety of human experiences. Why? Because children's literature serves as a mirror to see themselves and a window into the lives of others. We believe that when children are exposed to diverse books, they grow up to be more empathetic, accepting, and understanding of the world's many forms of diversity.
Our mission is to change the narrative, one book, and one author at a time. We are committed to producing high-quality literature that not only represents the underrepresented but also amplifies those often overlooked voices. As Deborah C. Mortimer insightfully states,
Our Story
"Representation is not only important to ensure that children see themselves in the world, but so that all children see, learn about, and appreciate those who are different from them.”
We understand that for many aspiring authors, fear and self-doubt can be daunting obstacles. These obstacles can make you put off your dreams or even give in to the fear of the unknown. But remember, every great leap forward begins with a simple step.
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Your diverse story is a vital thread in the rich tapestry of children's literature. Because we believe that a world with more diverse stories is a world enriched, a world enlightened, and a world empowered. And together, we can create a more inclusive, representative, and empowering literary world for children everywhere.