Elijah's Easter Suit by Brentom Jackson

We're excited to welcome Brentom Jackson to the KLiC blog just in time for Easter. 

KLiC: What was your inspiration for Elijah’s Easter Suit? 

BJ: I wanted a character name that represented the human capacity for boldness, innovation, and inventiveness. Elijah McCoy, the engineer and inventor for whom the term “the real McCoy” was coined, came to mind. Applying that attitude to fashion design spurred the idea of “Elijah’s Easter Suit.”

KLiC: What are your favorite illustrations by Emmanuel Boateng? 

BJ: I love the illustration spread on pages 15-16. Elijah connects with his ancestors after discovering a box of old clothing in the closet. This is such a powerful depiction of “Sankofa,” looking at our past so that we may move forward. 

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KLiC: What’s the one thing you want children to take away from your book?

BJ: If you don’t see the things you want in the world (e.g., clothing, shoes, books, movies, games) go out and make them.

KLiC: Do you have any tips for pre-published authors?

BJ: Focus on deepening your connections in the writing community and developing craft. The rest will come in time.

KLiC: What’s next for you? 

​BJ: Deepening my connections in the writing community and continuing to develop my craft.

Brentom Jackson is an award-winning spoken-word artist, classically trained actor, and licensed psychotherapist practicing in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX. With poetic voice, theatrical flair, and socio-emotional expertise Brentom writes stories that explore the universal lessons within Black-American history and heritage. With the hope of inspiring readers from all communities to celebrate their culture and cultivate their creativity.

Elijah’s Easter Suit is published by Random House Children's Books/January 23, 2024