Published and Purposeful: Briana Minor Publishes Her First Children’s Book

Briana Minor and her Child. (BJ Sampson / Sensei Brands)

Despite the odds, we have dared to be our most powerful and authentic selves. In doing so, many of us are showing the younger generations that they don’t have to bend to the stereotypes and that who they are is enough. With all their flaws they are still beautiful and none of their circumstances can change that.

Author, Briana Minor is one of the many people who have taken the initiative to extend this message and be an exemplar. All of the little Black girls, including her daughter, should know that they can be whatever they want to be and they can do whatever they set their minds to do. She encourages that in her new children’s book, Black Girl Magic.

For Colored Girls

Black Girl Magic originally started as a single poem to her daughter, but quickly turned into a poetry book when she realized a community need––if her daughter needed to hear it, how many other little Black girls needed to hear it too?

“It was a challenge of patience. I came up with this idea over a year ago, but the publishing process took some time. I feel like I spent a lot of time on little things, like the size of the spine and pictures,” She said. 

However, the result was well worth it. Briana has sold out all one hundred printed copies of Black Girl Magic and has also had the pleasure of reading it to children across the KC area.

Her accomplishments motivate her. She shared with The Defender how she lost her job at the same time she finished her children’s book––she had been on the job for three years and felt relief when she was let go. Now, she is able to put more energy into her craft, and is thinking more purposefully about the job she will pursue next: “I plan to go back to work. I don’t want just to be getting into something just to get into it,” she said. 

She encourages other Black authors and entrepreneurs to bet on themselves. “Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out on faith, even if that means you have to let go of a job. Your vision could be the thing that helps you touch the money you want to see.” She said. 

Her previous book, Conversions of a Colored Girl, published in 2021, shares some of her personal struggles: “I wanted to share some of my experience and how I healed, so that I could help others who may have gone through some of the same things.” she said. 

Although her children’s book sold more copies, Conversions of a Colored Girl was still thriving. Readers across the country shared their appreciation for the book and how it changed their lives.  

What’s Next?

Minor says that she can see many more children’s books in her future. Those looking to stay connected with Briana Minor can follow her on Instagram, Twitter, or Youtube.

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