María Felicia Kelley
María Felicia Kelley discovered a passion for writing as a girl growing up in the suburbs of Washington, DC. Earning a degree in broadcast journalism, from The Cronkite School at Arizona State University, María began her career in television as a writer and producer. She also has enjoyed time in front of the camera as a host and spokesperson. Today, she writes creatively with an eye toward children’s stories and educational materials. The pandemic of 2020—the world’s tragic new reality—inspired María to focus her creative energy, bringing long-planned artistic works to life. Wife to a proud Greek American and mother to their three sons, María lives in a Southern California household with strong male energy and an assortment of ethnic identities. As a tri-racial mix, including African, European, and Native American bloods, María taps into the traditions of many cultures. Through much of her writing, she explores the intricacies of her family’s racial heritage that is uniquely American.
February Fourteen—2/14
February Fourteen: 2/14 is a story about Valentine’s Day — a celebration close to the protagonist’s heart! It is the debut of the Celebrate the HoliDates® children’s book series told from a young boy’s point of view. Each title in the collection is colorfully illustrated. February Fourteen: 2/14, and each book of the series, inform readers — illustrating holiday customs and exploring the history of the special day. A fun and simple word-search question sets the reader on a quest and invites young learners to pay attention from page to page. Readers are encouraged to make new traditions, too, with a recipe included in each book for a treat discussed in the story. The books of the series contain descriptive, rhythmic text that paint a picture of the season and celebration traditions.
Celebrate the HoliDates® books explore holidays throughout the year. Each title orients young readers to the calendar, seasons, and holidays with specific dates.
“I think it is a great tool to teach kids about where their favorite holidays fall on the calendar, the repetition is helpful in getting that point across.”
— Carrie Wiese
Look for these upcoming titles:
March Seventeen—3/17 | Cinco de Mayo—5/5 | June Nineteen—6/19 | July Four—7/4
October Thirty-One—10/31 | November Eleven—11/11 | December Twenty-Five—12/25 | January One—1/1
Circle7531, LLC commits itself to research and education. In that spirit, a portion of the proceeds of each book purchased is donated to an organization that seeks to improve the lives of children diagnosed with Trisomy 21 — Down syndrome. Circle7531, LLC also supports organizations that further the cultural identification, recognition, and community of multiracial children and young adults.
