Scotch Plains Children's Author Pens Book, Wins Award

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — Scotch Plains author Robert Constant's passion for education is getting some attention as his latest children's book, "Hello Grandma!" just won third place in the 2021 Feathered Quill Book Awards Program for young readers.

Constant, who works full-time as a fundraiser for Princeton University, said he was "thrilled" with the distinction.

"Hello Grandma!" is Constant's second children's book which chronicles the story of his children Saniyah, age 6, and Robbie, age 13, as they travel from New Jersey to visit with their grandmother in The Bahamas, Nassau.

"It's a tale about traveling there and immersing yourself in a different culture. From the accents to the food to going to the beach at night when no one is there," said Constant. "It's a different way of life in the Bahamas."

Constant began following his passion to write in 2017.

"I always wrote but I didn't know I actually wanted to publish something. Then one day said I was just going to do it. People would say to me 'What do you know about writing?' I said, 'I don't care, it's something I want to do.' "

And he did. Constant published his first children's book "Hey Tuskegee!" revolving around his alma mater Tuskegee University.

The story follows his children as they relive the accomplishments of iconic African-Americans, including the university's founder, Booker T. Washington.

"I think everyone loves children's books. Who didn't love Dr. Suess? Who didn’t grow up on that? Children's books make you imagine and take you to different places," said Constant. "Every story always has some kind of meaning or learning aspect to it. Our youth are the future."

Constant is hoping his books will engage parents, guardians and children with stories about unique places, family and fun activities for kids.

Constant also shares his work by doing readings and speaking engagements at local schools. Upcoming engagements include:

• Schnell Elementary School in Placerville, California the week of April 5
• Luis Munoz Elementary in Newark this April

To learn more or purchase Hello Grandma! or Hey Tuskegee! click on the links.

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