Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade team up to write a children’s book inspired by their daughter Kaavia James.
Back in May of 2019, Union-Wade published Welcome to the Party, inspired by Kaavia’s birth.
According to People, the children’s book, Shady Baby, follows the baby girl as she “goes to the park to relax, only to meet some bullies. She quickly sets them straight and receives love and support from the other little ones nearby.”
“We hope to give the word ‘shady’ a more positive association and use it to represent one’s moral compass to do the right thing and stand up for themselves and others,” the couple tells PEOPLE. “It’s important that little Black girls and boys get to see themselves in these fairy tales and for children of other races to see us in leadership roles.”
In a joint statement, the couple describes the inspiration and ultimate goal of ‘Shady Baby’.
“Inspired by our daughter, Kaavia James, we wanted to create a children’s book that not only had a little Black girl as the main character but that also reflects the global community we live in.”
The couple describes how since her birth, Kaavia’s bold personality led to this publication. “Since she was born, you could always tell what she was thinking just by looking at her,” they explain in a statement. “Thus, her Shady Baby persona was born!”
Editor Luana Horry said in a statement, “Shady Baby is not only a book that children will enjoy, but it is the book the world needs right now, “she continues “Shady Baby is adorable, she makes us laugh, and has important things to say!”
Shady Baby will available in stores on May 18.
