In November and December 2021, readers rallied together in support of Black Men Read (BMR) via Booksweet’s Giving Tree.
Together, Booksweet readers purchased over 50 new books for BMR to distribute to libraries, community centers, schools, shelters, and Black-owned businesses across Washtenaw county.
We are so grateful for our community’s eagerness to rise up in support of BMR and their mission to uplift black men, all children, and all communities through the power of stories from the African Diaspora.
All who donated books through the giving tree were entered to win a bundle of Booksweet swag, including our tote, pin, and mug. Three lucky and generous winners were selected: Nina Eusani, Kaitlyn Solar, and Abigail VanBuhler.
In the short Q&A below, Nina and Abigail shared their thoughts on why they support BMR – and of course, what they’re reading now.
Q.) What motivated you to give to BMR this holiday season?
Nina: I have been so impressed with everything Black Men Read does. Seeing the giving tree when we came into the shop was a great reminder – and a really easy, timely way to help support their work and help get more diverse books to kids!
Abigail: I LOVE BMR and what they do for the community! I work as a site coordinator with EMU Bright Futures at Ford ELC in Ypsilanti. I have had colleagues who’ve worked with them. I love their curated reading list. It’s a go to resource I use for buying books for programs. That is how I first learned of the incredible Ana & Andrew series. I’m also familiar with their organization through their curated book boxes.
Q.) What’s the last book you recommended to a friend?
Nina: The last book I recommended to a friend was Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse.
Abigail: Glennon Doyle’s Untamed. I bought it for my sister along with her new journal for the holidays. That book changed my life during the pandemic.
Booksweet readers, thank you for joining us in support of diverse books, diverse storytellers, and diverse, thriving communities. Keep up the good work!