Western Illinois University Alumnus Pens Second Book with LEJA Faculty Member
MACOMB, IL – A Western Illinois University alumnus has partnered with a WIU faculty member to co-author their second children’s book, which will be released later this year.
“The Adventures of Darrius; The Hall Monitor,” follows the pair’s first book together, “Princess and the Power of Melanin,” which has a goal of combating bullying, colorism and uplifting young girls around the world.
Alumnus Jeremy McCool received his bachelor’s degree in broadcasting in 2015 and his master’s degree in communication in 2017. He is currently working on his doctoral degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and is also serving as an instructor there. His co-author is WIU School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration Associate Professor Anthony McBride, who has written other children’s books, including “Shaheana,” “The Lost Cat,” Willie the Whiskers” and “The Fish That Was Afraid to Swim.”
“This book is the origin story for a young black child named Darrius,” said McCool. “Darrius learns that he is a superhero in the narrative, and is taught this from the character Princess. He learns about his strength and gains confidence in himself. This character features a mean hall monitor character named Billy Rose. This book teaches confidence, self-esteem and an overall message of how abusing power is always bad.”
McBride said the book “bridges two individuals serving our children with inspirational and social consciousness literacy so that they live in the world knowing they matter.”
“As a professor there’s nothing more thrilling than seeing current students and former students of Western Illinois University giving back, representing their beliefs and demonstrating the University’s values – Academic Excellence, Educational Opportunity, Personal Growth and Social Responsibility,” McBride added. “That’s what this continued partnership with doctoral candidate Jeremy McCool demonstrates.”
“The Adventures of Darrius; The Hall Monitor” was reviewed by former WIU President Jack Thomas, who called it “engaging and captivating to its young audience.”
“This read is almost essential for the young minority; it empowers them to embrace the color of their skin and the value of knowledge,” said Thomas. “It encourages them to embrace their heritage and inner strength.”
The book will be sold on Amazon and other select websites.
