Keilah West – The Worlds Greatest Klutz

Keilah West World's Greatest Klutz Book Cover

Dear Dumplin,

I get so ecstatic when I learn about new characters of color.  It’s important for you to see yourself in literature and other forms of entertainment.  Keilah West – The World’s Greatest Klutz is exactly what I like to see in a children’s character.  She’s authentic, honest, lovable, friendly, and fun to watch.  Written by Katina Chimney and illustrated by Robyn HaleyKeilah West is sure to keep us entertained.  Let’s take a peak into Keilah’s first adventure!

I immediately noticed Keilah’s fun-loving and unique outfit.  No Mary Janes for her!  She wears the occasional sneaker but mainly cowboy boots!!  As she introduces herself, she proudly proclaims, “I’m a klutz extraordinaire!”  I love that because I’m clumsy too.  It’s important that our children embrace themselves flaws and all.  By the end of the first page, I love Little Miss Keilah.

Keilah West World's Greatest Klutz inside page

After receiving the book and reading it, I absolutely had to know more.  Here’s what children’s author Katina Chimney told me.

Katina Chimney

DD: As a fellow klutz like Miss Keilah West, I can appreciate someone saying, “Hey!  It’s ok to fall down.”  What other quirks came out as you created such a cute character?

KC: Keilah West is an avid seashell collector and refuses to use boring band-aids. 

DD: I love that she wears cowboy boots as opposed to sneakers or Mary Janes.  What made you do that?

KC: Keilah needed a wardrobe staple! I noticed that some of my friends’ kids wore colorful rainboots all year-long; no matter the season. When developing Keilah West I said she needs footwear that makes a statement. Since I am a Southern girl from Texas, cowboy boots seemed like the perfect choice.

DD: You put a lot of thought into her name.  In fact, her middle name is the same as my daughter’s!  (My daughter’s name is Isabelle Mae. )

KC: How neat! 🙂

DD: Thank you! Was this character sitting in your mind for years or did she just come to life when you started writing?

KC: In 2004 I had a dream about a little girl named Keilah. I looked it up in the Bible and discovered “Keilah” is the name of the city in Judah. From there, I was inspired to tell her story and spent the next nine years developing her character. Her middle and last name were derived from the infamous Hollywood silver screen actress Mae West. She is a hoot just like our main character!

DD: Did you self-publish or go the traditional publishing route?  How was that experience for you?

KC: My experience was a little different from most. I used a small press publisher however I financed the project. Once I finally completed the manuscript, I attended a Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators meeting and met my publisher, Pam Van Scoyoc. The next month we found my illustrator Robyn Haley. Within six months the book was ready to be introduced to the world!  

DD: On your website, you say you’ve always wanted to be a writer.  Congratulations on accomplishing your dream!  It’s a little harder for other people to find what they are good at and you showed that wonderfully through Keilah’s journey.  What made you write about that as a topic?

KC: Great question! I am on a mission to redefine the color of children’s literature. Growing up I loved reading but never saw any books with girls who looked like me. I want to change that for future generations. Last year over 5,000 books were published and only 8% featured kids of color (Blacks, Latinos, Indians, Natives and Asians combined). If minority children don’t see positive images of themselves in books and mainstream media where do they develop their self-esteem? 

DD: What’s next for Ms. Keilah Mae West? 

KC: More adventure awaits Keilah West, the World’s Greatest Klutz. I’ve planned a series of ten to twelve books.

I am so thankful that Katina took the time to answer my questions.  Kudos to her for seeing something wrong with the state children’s literature and doing something about it.  You may remember here, where I told you about the startling statistics.  I’m glad I’m not the only one who was bothered by these numbers.  Katina’s journey shows what a little purpose, dedication, and focus can accomplish.  It started with a dream (literally) and now we have the lovely Keilah West who will be able to teach children self-acceptance for years to come. I love it!

Love,

Mama

Disclaimer: I received Keilah West – The World’s Greatest Klutz for review purposes.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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