2024 National Book of the Year Award Winner: Inspiration and Insights with Portia Bright Pittman
Portia Bright Pittman is the author of, There Ought to be a Law: A Bright Day at the State Capitol and is the 2024 National Book of the Year Award Winner. Portia has a passion for literature, advocacy, and community empowerment. She has a deep commitment to nurturing young people as she mentors youth to make a positive impact in their communities. As an author, she has created Bright Books, which is a beacon of creativity and inspiration within the publishing industry.
"There Ought To Be A Law: A Bright Day at the State Capitol, stems from a desire to shed light on the legislative process and the importance of civic engagement. I was motivated by my own experiences working in or around government institutions, witnessing firsthand the complexities and challenges of lawmaking.”
How do you believe your book contributes to the promotion of literacy and diversity in literature?
This book has served as an educational tool, providing insights into the workings of government and fostering discussions about democracy, policymaking, and citizenship.
What was your approach to portraying diverse characters and cultures in your writing, and what steps do you take to ensure authenticity in your representation?
Enlist the help of sensitivity readers who belong to the communities I portray in the book. The readers provided valuable feedback on cultural nuances, language use, and the authenticity of character experiences.
In what ways do you see literature serving as a tool for empathy and understanding, particularly in creating a stronger sense of unity and promoting social justice?
Literature has long been a catalyst for social change and advocacy, shining a light on systemic injustices and giving voice to marginalized communities. By amplifying the stories and experiences of those who have been marginalized or oppressed, literature inspires readers to confront injustice, challenge the status quo, and work towards a more just and equitable society.
Pittman’s book has received numerous
Congressman Don Davis: “As a legislator, I can’t think of anything better than this book to explain to youth how laws are made. What a wonderful contribution to the education of our youth who are our future!”
Karen Peters, Elementary educator: “This is a children’s book for all ages. Here are beautiful illustrations, a fun story, and a glossary of important words. I would enthusiastically support Eliza and Martin’s anti-bullying and free ice cream bill in the general assembly. Can’t wait to share it with my students, colleagues, friends, and family!”
How do you engage with readers and communities to promote literacy and diversity outside of being an author, and what advice would you offer to aspiring writers seeking to do the same?
Engaging with readers and communities to promote literacy and diversity outside of being an author can be incredibly impactful and has been our mission since we began our literacy journey. We have hosted town halls and are visiting classrooms. These events offer opportunities to discuss books, share insights about writing and storytelling, and inspire a love of reading in audiences of all ages. Additionally, through our partnerships and book giveaways we have been able to distribute books and promote literacy not just across the USA but also in Jamaica.
Looking ahead, what hopes or aspirations do you have for the future of literature in terms of promoting literacy, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering greater inclusivity in storytelling?
My hopes for the future of literature are deeply rooted in the belief that it will continue to evolve as a powerful force for promoting literacy, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering greater inclusivity in storytelling. Here are some of my aspirations for the future: Increased Access to Literature: I hope for a future where literature is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, geography, or background. This includes ensuring access to books in libraries, schools, and communities, as well as leveraging digital platforms to expand access to literature for those who may face barriers to traditional forms of reading. Social Impact and Change: I envision literature playing a central role in driving social impact and catalyzing positive change in society. By shining a light on pressing social issues, challenging prevailing narratives, and inspiring empathy and action, literature can help shape public discourse, mobilize communities, and contribute to the pursuit of a more just and equitable world. Global Collaboration and Exchange: I hope to see greater collaboration and exchange within the global literary community, transcending borders and boundaries to create opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue, learning, and collaboration. By sharing stories and perspectives from around the world, literature has the power to bridge divides, build bridges of understanding, and foster a sense of interconnectedness and solidarity among people everywhere.
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