Cleveland Mother Launches Empowering Children’s Book Celebrating Autism and Self-love

CLEVELAND — J’nay Blackwell, a Cleveland-based author and mother, has published her first children’s book inspired by her daughter’s experience with autism, aiming to offer representation and empowerment to children with similar journeys. The book, Journey’s Jewels: Journey and the Diamond of Self-Love, introduces readers to a six-year-old Black girl named Journey who learns to celebrate her neurodiversity through magical life lessons.

“I didn’t see books that reflected my daughter’s experience or identity,” said Blackwell. “So I wrote one that would show children with autism—especially Black girls—that their voice, their magic, and their perspective deserve to be uplifted.”

Photo: Author J'nay Blackwell

The debut title is the first in a planned series called Journey’s Jewels, which follows its namesake character as she navigates everyday challenges like making friends or handling change. With each experience, Journey earns a symbolic jewel—this book centers on the Diamond of Self-Love, awarded after she discovers the value of embracing her differences.

The narrative is designed to foster understanding and empathy among young readers, with a specific focus on neurodiversity and identity affirmation. Blackwell, through her publishing initiative, hopes the series will be used as a resource by families, educators, and caregivers to initiate conversations about autism, inclusion, and the importance of self-acceptance.

A verified Amazon review praised the book as “a true gem—warm, inspiring, and filled with heart,” highlighting its impact on both neurodivergent and neurotypical children. The reviewer noted that all of their children connected with the story and were eager for future installments.

The series also includes complementary educational tools, such as downloadable coloring pages, to engage children creatively and reinforce the story’s lessons.

Journey’s Jewels: Journey and the Diamond of Self-Love is available for purchase on Amazon and Barnes & Noble in print and digital formats. For more information, media inquiries, or to schedule school visits, Blackwell can be contacted via her official website at www.journeysjewels.com.

“Every brain is special, every feeling is important, and everyone deserves to shine,” the author’s platform declares, underscoring the mission of the book and its broader message of empowerment.

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