Brandy Hambrick, Author
Why I Wrote "The Key"
KNOWLEDGE OF THE PAST IS THE KEY TO THE FUTURE
THE ADVENTURE BEGINS
By Brandy Yvonne Hambrick
Thirteen year old Dominique Janay Hill hates school, especially her history class. She's not like her brainy big sister, Lana, or a scholar like her mother, Dorothy. Her only true happiness is her dog, Milo, whom she found as a puppy.
When faced with the nearly impossible task of writing a great history paper, Dominique loses confidence in herself and accepts a failing grade without even trying. Her mother suggests she visits her old college Professor, who she promises will inspire her and guide her to writing the best history report. Not only is he a brilliant historian, he also owns a bookstore filled with ancient relics, fascinating books, and other historic treasures. Desperate for help, Dominique agrees to visit the professor and takes her dog, Milo, along.
Clearly, a bookstore is no place for a young dog, and Milo breaks a rare artifact.
Feeling guilty and ashamed, Dominique apologizes and offers to pay for the relic, but the Professor informs her that it is irreplaceable; however, he does offer her the chance to work off the damagas caused by her dog by helping him a few days after school in the bookstore. Dominique happily agrees. What she learns is that the bookstore is not your typical literary haven: It is a portal to the past!
Through her many adventures to the past, Dominique discovers the truth about Africa, the truths and the lies of history's greatest mysteries, and learns of history's unsung heroes. More importatnly, she discovers the hero within herself.
The Key : The Adventure Begins is suitable for all ages but specifically created for ages 10 and up. The book helps kids understand and retain history, as well as, improve their reading skills. It instills confidence, promotes leadership, literacy, and teaches kids how to end bullying and racism. The most important element of the book is to also teach kids the importance of communication, so healthy opinions can be fomed and profiling can be stopped. These are lessons that will help kids grow up to become confident leaders, and healthy minded people.
This is not just a book about Black facts. Every race shines in this book and every culture should be proud of their historic contributions to the world. Plenty of humor and a touch of fantasy makes this an exciting read that is sure to enlighten, excite, and empower young readers. Hopefully, kids will learn to take education more seriously than they do social media. Hopefully, they will discover their own power and realize they are the key to a better future for all.