Meet
Marleigh Brown
high school Student, Author and entrepreneur
My story began when ...
I was in class one day and a fellow student stuck a pencil in my hair. It poked me pretty hard. I didn't know the word "microaggression" at the time, but that is what was happening. Whether or not the student meant to cause me embarrassment, she was treating me in a way that she would not have treated other kids. I didn't know how to react...should I say something to her? Or poke her back? Or cry? Or tell the teacher? Or let her keep doing it?
Lots of kids experience moments like this. They may feel different because of their hair, their name, their culture, their abilities, or something else that makes them unique. Sometimes other children address those differences in ways that feel uncomfortable or hurtful, even if they don't intend that harm.
And then...
when I got older, I noticed that there were many books for young Black girls that focused on learning to love their hair and being at peace with all of it's various kinks and curls. While these books provided affirmation on Black beauty, I thought what was missing was a book teaching kids of other backgrounds to respect a Black girl's hair. I also wanted to show the girls themselves that they can use their own voice to command that respect.
So I decided to do something about it by writing a book based on my lived experience. I am thrilled to introduce the world to Perri's Pencil Problem!
This story is meant to help children understand two important things: that it is okay to speak up when something hurts your feelings, and that it is also important to treat others with kindness and respect when we are curious about what makes them different.
My hope is that Perri’s story encourages conversations between children, parents, and teachers about empathy, friendship, and celebrating the many things that make each of us special.
Every child deserves to feel seen, respected, and proud of who they are.
Thank you for your support!
My Values
Empathy
curiosity
Respect
Creativity
Humility
Integrity
Fun Facts ABOUT ME
1
I have traveled to 32 countries across the globe which has helped me to value and appreciate the differences in people instead of fearing them.
Creating visual art is my favorite outlet. I currently spend much of my time hand designing stamps and printmaking.
2
PERRI
3
I run a business with my sister, Seraphina, where we hand make personalized notebooks for kids of all kinds so that they can see themselves represented. I love being a young Black entrepreneur! www.MeadowAngel.com