Meet Brianna Laren, an author dedicated to empowerment, resilience, and the celebration of Black excellence who uses her writing to transform lives. Through her books like “Black Boys Deserve Flowers Too” and “Pretty Pretty Black Girl,” she fosters self-discovery and affirmation, empowering readers to find strength and beauty in their own stories.
Please enjoy our interview!
Why did you decide to write books promoting empowerment, resilience, and the celebration of Black excellence?
Brianna: I write books promoting empowerment, resilience, and the celebration of Black excellence because it aligns with my purpose in life. I firmly believe that we all possess unique gifts and talents, and mine happens to be the ability to uplift and empower others through writing. Ultimately, I see writing as not just a passion, but a purpose that allows me to change the narrative and amplify voices that are often marginalized.
How many books have you written in total?
Brianna: I have written six books. Breebe’s Brand New Baby Brother, Pretty Pretty Black Girl (there are two versions), and Black Boys Deserve Flowers are empowering children’s books. Edge Control for the Soul is a book of poetry that speaks to Black Women’s journey of self discovery and Save Your Edges Workbook focuses on mental health, self love, and reaching one’s goals and dreams.
When was “Black Boys Deserve Flowers Too” released?
Brianna: Black Boys Deserve Flowers Too was released on October 24, 2023. It is a collection of affirmations and positive messages designed to inspire confidence and self-esteem. Through the power of words, the bookencourages Black boys to embrace their identity, dream big, and stand tall with pride.
When was “Pretty Pretty Black Girl released? What is the book about?
Brianna: Pretty Pretty Black Girl was released April 26, 2023. It is a children’s book that celebrates Black girl magic filled with beautiful illustrations and positive affirmations that help Black girls feel appreciated, loved, and confident.
What is a personal challenge that you overcame?
Brianna: A personal challenge that I overcome daily is fighting the urge to shrink to make others feel comfortable. Everyday I have to make the choice to unapologetically embrace my identity, my worth, the power of my voice, and to show up as my full self. It is a transformative journey that never really ends because there will always be situations that test you but if you stay true to who you are, you will emerge stronger.
Did parenting or your children influence you to write books to empower young children?
Brianna: Parenting absolutely influenced me to write books that empower young children. Pretty Pretty Black Girl started out as a way to heal the little girl inside of me. I wrote the words I needed to hear most when I felt like I didn’t matter. It blossomed into affirmations that I pour into my daughter daily because I never want her to feel like I did.
I wrote Black Boys Deserve Flowers for my son because there are so many books, shows, and campaigns geared towards girls and I want him to always know that he is amazing, loved and valued. I teach both of my children that it’s not enough to know you deserve flowers you have to also be willing to accept them.
What do you find most fulfilling as a mother?
Brianna: I love watching my children grow and become their own little people. It’s amazing to see their personalities, their likes/dislikes, and the choices they make even at a young age. My kids teach me something new everyday including things about myself and my own personal journey outside of motherhood. They are very intelligent, funny, and amazing and I am blessed that I get to be their mom.
Be sure to connect by visiting
https://www.briannalaren.com/
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