Based in Ealing, the creator of the 'Black Inventors' series has devoted herself to filling the gap she experienced as a parent searching for books that celebrate Black role models for her children. 

Her frustration led to action and she began researching Black inventors, crafting mini-biographies and short stories. 

James said: "If no one else is doing this, then I have to."   

What started as a single book, soon blossomed into a series tailored for different age groups.  

Her latest release, 'Marvellous Black Inventors', caters to children aged zero to seven, introducing them to the incredible contributions of Black inventors.  

The 'Black Inventors' series delves into the achievements of figures like Madam CJ Walker and Annie Malone, pioneers in the beauty and hair product industry, whose success stories are just as awe-inspiring as their innovations. 

James also hosts annual story time sessions at Ealing library which have become a welcomed event by residents.  

The author said: "Ealing library every year, for the past few years, has invited me to do story time sessions at their libraries to young children which has been a lot of fun.  

"it's something to really inspire them, to get them interested and children love these sorts of things. 

"They love hearing about inventors and it's from everyday things that you might use, like the ironing board by Sarah Boone, to really complicated stuff, to fun stuff like the Nerf gun which is by Lonnie Johnson." 

James' books spotlight the remarkable achievements of Black inventors which some people might have been unaware of.  

The front cover of Joy James' latest book, Marvellous Black Inventors (credit: Joy James).

"It's just amazing, and some haven't been credited for this because of discrimination and racial inequality at the time of their invention" she explained. 

This October, during Black History Month, James continues her mission of engaging and inspiring young readers.  

she emphasised: "It shouldn't just be for Black History Month; it can be all year round. 

"Ealing is great for this, there's events and getting involved with themes such as 'Saluting Our Sisters'. 

She added: "Anyone who's interested, find out, go on your laptop and just do searches.  

"You'll be surprised what's just down the road from where you live." 

Despite being intended for children, Joy James still believes her books can be enjoyed by all. 

She said: "Read my books. It doesn't matter what book. You can always still read them. It's still fascinating information and a way to engage with Black history."  

To connect and find out more about Joy James' books, click here.

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