NORFOLK, VA — The award-winning novelist and author of “Moby Dick,” Herman Melville once said, “To produce a mighty book, you must choose a mighty theme.” 

The quote resonates with more upcoming authors like Kaylah Moseley-Pressley (KP), a senior at Norfolk State University. 

Moseley-Pressley wrote her first book, “Ain’t Nobody But You,” on January 24. “Ain’t Nobody But You” is a children’s book about a Black mother uplifting her son. The Spartan Echo spoke with the new author and discussed her new book. 

SP: What is the genre of “Ain’t Nobody But You,” and how would you summarize it?

KP: The genre is children’s literature. The book is about a Black woman who uplifts her Black son with kind words.

SP:  Who is the target audience?

KP: I would say my target audience is children, as well as mothers, grandmothers and other motherly figures who want to give a great gift to their son.

SP: What gave you the inspiration to write this book? When did you know you wanted to write it?

KP: My mother inspired me to write this book, as well as my little brother. I have had the pleasure of watching her raise him as she always complimented him, but also would tell him when he was wrong. My passion for this topic urged me to write this within only fifteen minutes at work.

SP: Why do you write? How long have you been writing?

KP: I write because I like to think of myself as an introvert and it helps me express my many imaginations without restrictions.

SP: What is next for you?

KP: Well I graduate from college in May. As I finish up the semester, I am working on my first chapter book and hoping to turn my manuscript into a publisher this time around.

Although it did not take Moseley-Pressley much time to write this book, the powerful impact that it can have on the community is crucial. 

19% of Black children make up preschool enrollment, according to a study by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. However, 47% of Black preschool children receive an out-of-school suspension. 

A problematic home environment can have detrimental effects on a child’s intellectual, social and emotional development, according to The Urban Child Institute. 

The environment and the experiences that occur within the environment affect moods. If a home situation is not doing well, it is more than likely the child will act out in response to their experiences. 

To reference this issue before or while reading “Ain’t Nobody But You” is to remember the importance of support. 

Moseley-Pressley had first-hand experience by observing her mother and brother, both her inspirations for the novel. She became more than a writer, but as a voice and a big sister to remind Black mothers and children, specifically Black boys, how they are beautiful in their way. 

Moseley-Pressley’s theme of her book demonstrated the vitality of uplifting and encouraging young Black boys. The main character received the cultivation he needed to become a young man in the future. 

For more information to purchase the book, visit amazon.com.