Take a Trip to Diverse City by Shawna Ray

posted by brenc1 on August 9th, 2008 print No Comments type: books, needs reviewed

Shawna Ray is an author, communicator, singer, and songwriter who loves people. Her first children’s book, “TAKE A TRIP TO DIVERSE CITY,” was self-published through Winters Press and released January 2007. Shawna started her own publishing company, Rhythm Ray Inc. to release a Special Editon with national boy band, B5 January 2008 to include a CD with a narrated soundtrack read by B5 and a song that follows the book with an added chorus. Rhythm Ray is also the name of Shawna’s band and means “movement and light”.

Jesus prayed to the Father in John 17:23, “May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” So let’s take a “trip” to diverse city! It’s in a FREE STATE of mind that is open to new and different people, places, and experiences. We hope to always live there and invite others to share the beauty and adventure.

In this story, some of the children on the playground in Same City will not let Jacob play because his skin color is different than theirs. Zac stands up for his friend and leads the kids on an imaginary trip to Diverse City. They enjoy a variety of savory meals at Spice of Life Cafe, and share in different ways of creating with an array of colors and textures at the Art Spot. They hear different styles and moods of music in the streets and talk about the importance of each individual. When the kids return from their change in perspective, things are much more colorful and the children are free to appreciate their differences and enjoy playing together.

This rhyming picture book encourages children to accept and celebrate one another while welcoming cultural diversity. It is written in nuetral language to be welcomed in schools and Shawna presents a complete diversity program that is fun and educational as she reads and sings the book. There is a message about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream, discussion questions, and a letter to young authors in the back. Shawna respects, embraces and learns from various approaches to God and life while not ashamed of her faith in Jesus Christ. When presenting at churches, she also adds specific Bible verses into the discussion.

Shawna has a degree in Public Relations and has worked in development, community relations, and as a trainer in the areas of disability and diversity awareness with United Way, Goodwill, and Open Bridges. A portion of the proceeds go to support unity initiatives.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ONLINE:
AUTHOR Shawna Ray WWW.SHAWNARAY.COM
www.myspace.com/shawnaraybooks
ILLUSTRATOR Laurie Faust WWW.LAURIEFAUSTDESIGNS.COM

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