DA SPOT NYC Presents: Building Legacy Through Literacy

Join us for a powerful double book launch celebrating mentorship, growth, and the transformative power of Black storytelling in education.

Six years ago, NYC Youth Poet Laureate Kayden Hern sat in Malcolm Dill’s classroom as a student. Today, they return together — side by side — as published authors.

This special event honors a full circle moment and the impact of representation, literacy, and intentional mentorship in our communities.

We are celebrating the launch of:

✍🏾📖Who Am I
A beautifully illustrated picture book written by Kayden Hern and published by Scholastic, adapted from his original poem of the same title. A powerful affirmation of identity and self discovery for young readers.

📚Marvin Explores Black History
An interactive workbook created by educator and author Malcolm Dill, introducing children to six Black historical figures through engaging activities, reflection prompts, and an animated YouTube series voiced by Kayden himself.

The afternoon will also feature a high energy live stepping performance by Frenetic Steppers, a dynamic youth step team founded and managed through the CCM afterschool program.

Established in 2023, Frenetic Steppers brings together middle school students who embody unity, teamwork, and sisterhood. What began as learning the fundamentals of stepping has grown into a powerful sisterhood rooted in discipline, confidence, and collective pride.

The team has competed in local NYC showcases and performed at notable events including the United Nations and DYCD Step It Up initiative. Known for their commitment to both excellence and community impact, the Frenetic Steppers are honored to bring their energy to the DA SPOT NYC stage.

• Live spoken word performance by Kayden Hern
• Live reading from Who Am I
• Interactive Marvin Explores Black History experience
• Black History trivia and audience engagement
• Special live stepping performance by Frenetic Steppers
• A dynamic book talk on mentorship, identity, and building legacy
• Book signing and community celebration

This is more than a book launch.
It is a moment of representation.
A reminder of what happens when our youth are nurtured and seen.
A celebration of Black educators, Black authors, and Black excellence in literacy.

Come be part of the moment.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher DA SPOT NYC