BUY BOOK

February 1st | 2pm CST

The Whole World Opened Up | Laylah and Sharon Richmond

We kindly request that if you would like your book signed, it must be purchased at Barbara’s Bookstore. To ensure a smooth and efficient signing process, please present your receipt as proof of purchase.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Laylah is your typical third grader—she loves playing with Lego, hanging with her BFF Ria, and spending time with her grandmother Irene.

When her grandmother suggests Laylah enter a reading contest, Laylah’s not sure. She’s always dreamed of being a writer, but reading doesn’t always come easily. What if she stumbles on an unknown word in front of everyone

After some encouragement from her family, Laylah agrees, and soon finds herself on a surprising journey as she discovers the power of words, her African American heritage, and her true potential.

The Whole World Opened Up is the stunning debut by Laylah and Sharon Richmond, and a child’s perfect introduction to independent reading. Featuring a rich story and fun illustrations, this chapter book explores numerous themes, including:

• The power and magic of words
• Perseverance and pride
• African American history
• Friendship and community

The Whole World Opened Up invites children to join Laylah on her journey of
inspiration, hope and self-discovery.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A seventeen-year-old high school student, Laylah Skyy Richmond started writing in second grade with her first story, “Don’t Chew Bubble Gum in School.”

Laylah Skyy won first place in the 1st Annual Youth WNBA All-Star Essay Contest sponsored by the BDM Sports and Education (BELIEVE) Project. In August 2022, she won first place in the Hello to Natural Back to School Laptop Giveaway essay contest presented by Back to Natural Health company. In October 2022, she was selected to travel with the Chicago Knights Robotics team as part of the One Team, Two Continents Ambassador Program to Port Alfred, South Africa.

After a thirty-four-year career, Sharon Richmond retired from the engineering department at Navistar, Inc. as a technical designer. Following that, she obtained her massage therapy license from Soderworld Wellness Center and Academy.

Besides writing, she also enjoys performing/singing, roller skating and raising her two grandchildren, Laylah and Taydon. It has been a joy to work with Laylah on her first book.