Tasha's Voice - by Carmen Bogan (Hardcover)

About the Book

"A shy girl finds friendship and is inspired to express herself during a transformative experience in nature"--

Book Synopsis

"A lovely book celebrating nature and Black voices enjoying nature." --BookRiot, "Riot Recommendations"

Tasha is a girl who has trouble using her voice to speak in school or to even make a friend. Then her class visits a park, the best park ever. With the help of an encouraging park ranger, an understanding teacher, two new companions, and a tiny turtle, Tasha finds connection with others and her own voice.

This story takes place on the same class trip featured in Carmen Bogan's and Floyd Cooper's groundbreaking Where's Rodney?, once again showing the power of nature to transform a child.

Beloved illustrator Floyd Cooper began the artwork for this book; his illustration mentee Daria Peoples finished them. In the back of the book, readers will learn how the book was completed following Cooper's passing in 2021 and will find two of his original sketches.

Review Quotes

"A story of bravery and friendship....would help students that are new to a school or any child that loves nature and the outdoors."--Kiss the Book Junior, July 2025

★★★★"A lovely, sensitive book about how transformative it is to be in nature." --Stephanie Tournas, Youth Services Book Review

"Verdict: This would be an indispensable title for libraries and schools in urban areas, especially those trying to advocate for outdoor experiences." --Jennifer, Jean Little Library Blog

Featured for Earth Day by Book Riot, @thekidlitmama and @maistorbybooklibrary!

About the Author

Carmen Bogan's inspiration for Tasha's Voice and Where's Rodney? came from her work with non-profit organizations supporting public health through outdoor experiences. Carmen lives in Oakland, California, with her husband, Willie. She has two adult daughters and a grandson, Logan.

Floyd Cooper has illustrated more than one hundred books for children. He has received the Coretta Scott King Award and three Coretta Scott King Honors. Floyd lives in Easton, Pennsylvania, with his growing family: Velma, Kai, Dayton, Melissa, and grandsons, Niko and Noah.