My Voice Is a Trumpet, scheduled for publication in July 2021,
celebrates the many types of voices that can affect change
NEW YORK, NY –– Jimmie Allen, platinum-selling recording artist-songwriter and the first Black artist to launch his career with two consecutive No. 1 hits on country radio, will publish his debut picture book, MY VOICE IS A TRUMPET, with Flamingo Books, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers. Illustrated by veteran illustrator Cathy Ann Johnson, the book is a powerful story about speaking up for what you believe in, at any age. The deal was negotiated by Albert Lee at United Talent Agency for the author, and by Claire Easton at Painted Words representing the illustrator. Margaret Anastas, VP & Publisher, Flamingo Books, will edit, and the publication is scheduled for July 13, 2021.
“It’s very important to me that kids learn at a young age that they have a voice, and that it is powerful. It is up to us as adults to teach them to use their voice to encourage and show love,” said Jimmie Allen. “Being a father of two kids, I try to encourage them to be themselves and love everyone around them. I’m hoping this book inspires at least one child and they always remember their voice is a trumpet.”
In MY VOICE IS A TRUMPET all voices are as diverse as the characters and heard loud and clear. From voices that roar like a lion, to voices small as a bee, all it takes is confidence and a belief in the goodness of others to change the world.
“I was inspired by an interview Jimmie gave in the wake of the protests against police brutality in summer of 2020 and knew he would be the perfect author for a children’s book,” said Margaret Anastas. “My Voice Is a Trumpet is a gentle call to action and a reminder that there’s never a wrong time to use your voice.”
Coming at a time when issues of social justice are at the forefront of our society, this is the perfect book to teach children that they’re not too young to express what they believe in and that all voices are valuable.