Antonio Michael Downing is a musician, writer, and activist whose work explores the complexities of identity and belonging. His critically acclaimed debut novel garnered significant attention, establishing him as a notable voice in contemporary literature. Downing's writing is known for its unique blend of personal experience and social commentary, offering readers profound insights into the human condition. His artistic endeavors extend to music, where he performs and composes under a different persona, further enriching his multifaceted creative output.
This book presents a captivating collection of extraordinary memoirs from the twenty-first century, showcasing diverse voices and experiences. It weaves together personal narratives that reflect the complexities and richness of contemporary life, offering readers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of identity, resilience, and the human experience. Each memoir contributes to a larger tapestry, making for an engaging and enlightening read.
Author and musician Antonio Michael Downing's debut picture book is about big changes and big feelings, and speaks to all kids experiencing the highs and lows of childhood. Little Tony is full of love for his grandmother, his home in Trinidad and delicious pholourie. But he's also full of other big feelings, including anger. His grandmother tries to teach him to be patient — patience is a star in his crown, she says — but it's hard. He tries to keep his anger in, but when he loses at ping-pong to his brother or he has to come in from playing . . . Yaaarrgh! When Little Tony and his brother move away from their beloved Trinidad, there's even more for him to be upset about. His new home is cold, full of new people, and there's no pholourie anywhere! Yaaarrgh! But then he remembers his grandmother's lessons, and a surprising thing happens . . . A charming and heartwarming story based on the author's own childhood, Stars In My Crown is an ode to big feelings but even bigger triumphs.