At Thanksgiving, I’m never short on blessings for which I’m thankful.  This year, I am feeling special appreciation for being trusted to tell the story in my new book, Small Shoes, Great Strides: How Three Brave Girls Opened Doors to School Equality.

Small Shoes comes out on November 7th, shortly before the 63rd anniversary of the day my six-year-old subjects — Leona Tate, Tessie Prevost and Gail Etienne — made history, history I am excited and honored to share.

I first learned of this under-told story in 2018 from my friend Jim Dunn of the U.S. Marshals Museum Foundation in Fort Smith, Arkansas.  The adventure has been challenging, emotional and marvelous.  I am over the moon about the completion of this project and am filled with gratitude for the people who made it possible — Leona, Tessie and Gail, of course, retired U.S. Marshal Herschel Garner and the U.S. Marshals Service, numerous librarians, museum folks, my family (especially my husband Drew), my publishing family, my writing community (particularly my critique group), friends, and so many others, most of whom you will find in the book’s back matter section.

Above all, I thank my Lord for leading me to Jim Dunn and this incredible story, for taking me on an unforgettable journey, and for enabling me to do the work I love.

Blessings to you all in this season of harvests and family.

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Read more about Small Shoes, Great Strides at: vaundamicheauxnelson.com
and at: tepcenter.org