Q&A – Dr. Veronica Appleton, Ph. D – Author, “Mama Why”

Already a renowned scholar and lecturer, Chicago native Dr. Veronica Appleton, Ph.D is also a children’s literature author with a special passion for educating and inspiring our youth.

Having previously authored 2016’s Journey to Appleville and 2020’s Tu-Tu Goes to School, Dr. Appleton’s latest book, Mama Why, tackles tough topics such as gun violence and community advocacy through the lens of a young boy named Malcolm. Using her vast knowledge of DEI principles, Dr. Appleton empowers children to understand complex social issues while teaching them the value of their own voice. More than a mere book, Mama Why was designed as a tool for parents to engage their children in conversations about justice, safety, and empowerment.

Outside of work, Dr. Appleton is a reading literacy advocate and champion of equity as well as a mentor and board member of several nonprofits providing resources and impact in communities of color, women, men and children including serving as Task Force Member within DePaul University’s Addressing the Vincentians’ Relationship with Slavery Committee, a Board Member for the Chicago Foundation for Women Southside Giving Circle, and a Board of Directors for Goodman Theatre and the Chicago Advertising Federation.

N’DIGO recently met with Dr. Appleton to learn more about her background, inspirations, and her new book, Mama Why.

In your own words, who is Dr. Veronica Appleton?

Dr. Veronica Appleton is a human who appreciates a mid-day cup of coffee, flower arranging, reading books about joy, and being her kind of beautiful.

What are three words family and friends would use to describe you?

Discerning. Kind. Strong.

As a child, what did you dream of doing for a living?

I knew at an early age I wanted to create! I often thought about being a computer animator but quickly realized I didn’t know how to draw. When I entered Purdue University to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations & Rhetorical Advocacy, I knew becoming a college professor, and a children’s author would be core pieces of my future. I am pleased with the decision, and although my drawing/sketching abilities weren’t great, I love that I’m able to curate diverse teams for my comic book and children’s book projects. I find a great deal of gratitude in being able to do so.

How did you find your knack for writing?

My love for writing started when I was pretty young. Early on, I drafted short stories, poems, and teen novels. When I was in grade school, many of my teachers noticed how well my writing skills were, some even utilized my assignments as examples for various classes. This trend continued into college as well and I recall my assignments being referenced by peer students during African American studies and English courses. Overall, writing has always been a part of my life.

Did you always know you wanted to be a published author? What was the light bulb moment to publish your first book?

In 2008, I penned the first book of my children’s collection, Journey to Appleville. I submitted the book for consideration at a variety of notable children’s book publishers. After being rejected by approximately 70 publishers over the course of 2008-2013. Without being disappointed about the rejections, I remembered the experiences of Dr. Seuss, who was rejected 27 times before publishing And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street, J.K. Rowling was rejected 12 times before publishing Harry Potter, and Margaret Mitchell House was rejected 38 times before publishing Gone With The Wind. After seeing how these authors never gave up on their dreams, I was determined to independently publish the book on my own, because I knew the story of Appleville had to be shared with the world. Since then, the book has sold 900+ copies and has been featured in/on FOX 32 Chicago, WCIU-TV Public News, and Story Monsters Ink. Because of never giving up, I’m so happy with this outcome.

Can you tell us about your latest book, Mama Why?

“Mama Why” is written for children ages 9-12 of all varying abilities. The comic book encourages readers to understand the past while recognizing the need to advocate for a safer and brighter future. In the comic, Malcolm learns that neighborhood gun violence caused two friends, Brandon and Marcus, to go to heaven. I was inspired to create a comic book that could take a close look at violence from a child’s perspective while emphasizing the role of parents and local leaders in creating a safe environment for the next generation.

Please talk about your passion for educating and inspiring young minds with your work?

I believe every child has a story to tell and with one ounce of motivation, they can accomplish their goals similar to the characters in my books Journey to Appleville, Tu-Tu Goes to School, or Mama Why. The same philosophy we spark within adults to do what you love and to be who you want to be, I encourage every parent, educator or essential adult to encourage every little human in their life to work for their dreams, continue growing, champion collective change with others, and to be the best and healthiest version of themselves emotionally, mentally and physically. Children’s literature is personally one of the most fascinating genres of the literary industry. I’m proud to contribute my books to the world of children’s literature.

You find time to serve on several boards and volunteer at various organizations. Can you share your thoughts on the importance of giving back to the community?

Giving back is not optional, it’s a requirement, and I find a significant amount of joy in being part of the solution that could help the community. Since adolescence, I always wanted to be part of nonprofits and organizations committed to collective change and encouraging a spirit of education, support, and connection to those in our community who need resources the most. Even in adulthood, I’m proud to serve on the Board of Directors for several nonprofits, academic institutions, and service organizations. As a children’s and comic book author, I see my commitment to service rooted in each school visit, library visit, and any child I encounter.

With all that you do, how do you maintain your mental health and actively participate in your own self-care and wellness?

This question is so important to me. Laughter is my medicine, and I utilize it every day! From watching comedians via Instagram like Desi or Kountry Wayne to YouTube with the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, I appreciate the joy I get from laughing every morning to start my day. I also pair this joy with my spiritual intake, and watching sermons from TBN’s Better Together, Pastor John Hannah or Pastor Dharius Daniels creates the balance I need to maintain positive reinforcement throughout the day. Although we can’t predict the less positive experiences we may encounter, I find balance with joy and faith at the forefront to prioritize happiness and overall emotional, mental, and physical wellness. Treating myself to a burrito bowl once a week helps quite a bit, too!

What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?

I enjoy watching TV shows that allow me to relax like Bravo TV’s Housewives, Vh1’s Love & Hip-Hop, or any other show that doesn’t connect to academia or my professional career. I enjoy the entertainment and laughter the shows provide which overall brings me joy!

Best advice to aspiring writers?

It’s an exciting time to create narratives that relate to everyday humans. For children, educators, and parents, they want to see themselves in the work produced by authors and illustrators. When I think of this special time in our society, the best advice for aspiring writers is to write, write, write. Create a “writing moment” for yourself each week to exercise your talent. Whether it’s 15, 30, or 60 minutes, create dedicated time to write in a “freestyle” way, which means to write whatever may come to mind. Also, I believe you can get inspired by walking in the park, commuting from work or school, creating time to visit an art gallery or coffee/tea house, or simply sitting in a space of solitude and exercising your free-thinking space. These tips could help you write a top-selling book or simply create for your own self-enjoyment.

Favorite quote or affirmation?

“You alone are enough.” ~ Dr. Maya Angelou