For years, people have asked me, "When are you going to write your story?"

Family. Friends. Coworkers. Customers at Strive Bookstore. For decades, people who knew pieces of my childhood encouraged me to put it into words. I always thought, Maybe someday.

That someday has finally come.

With the support of an incredible writing group called Brown Noise, I found the courage to write the story I've carried for so many years. It wasn't easy. Some memories made me smile. Others broke my heart all over again. But I kept writing because I realized this story isn't just about my childhood—it's about resilience, finding your voice, and discovering that your past doesn't have to define your future.

This fall, I'll be releasing my memoir, Lessons from a Mixed-Up Childhood.

If you've been one of the people encouraging me over the years, thank you. Your belief in me helped me get here.

I would be honored if you would pre-order your copy and be among the first to read the stories I've waited a lifetime to tell.

My hope is that these pages help young people who feel unseen know they are not alone, encourage adults to better understand the children in their lives, and remind all of us that even the most confusing childhoods can become stories of hope.

Thank you for walking alongside me on this journey. I can't wait to share it with you.

Pre-orders are now open. ❤️📖 click on the book cover

✨ NEWLY PUBLISHED AND SOLD OUT TWICE!

The children’s picture book: Our First Bus Ride, based on the film, Separate Not Equal: Minnesota’s Integration Story.

• Click on the “Separate Not Equal” poster to view the 2-minute promo video for the film

• MEET THE AUTHOR, Derek Francis - at the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery (see flyer below)

• Click on picture of the book cover to order your copy of Our First Bus Ride