Spotlight: Angela Deneen Priso celebrated children’s book author, breaking grounds
Angela Deneen Priso believes that giving back to her community is a selfless activity that she enjoys doing. This is why, in her career as a children’s book author, she decided to empower the children in Cameroon through the donation of books and other school supplies. The donation will take place hours after school resumption on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Government Primary School Odza with Instructor Nathalie Wagnue, Angela said.
Cameroon feels like home for her since she got married to a Cameroonian man from Douala.
“Our family is here, we have a home, and many projects. This visit is not just personal but purposeful. I want to reconnect with my own African roots while also giving back. Being here for International Literacy Day is meaningful because it allows me to celebrate literacy and identity on Cameroonian soil. Sharing stories here feels like a circle completed!”
But how did Angela Deneen Prison become interested in children’s books? CNA got interested in her career when she landed in Cameroon for the donation exercise.
Roots & Rhythms Stories was born out of a deep desire to give children voices, mirrors, and maps through storytelling. Too often, children of African descent don’t see themselves reflected in books, and children outside the continent rarely see Africa presented in all its richness. I wanted to create stories that celebrate cultural pride and identity while opening a door of curiosity for children everywhere. Writing children’s books allows me to plant seeds of representation and belonging in young readers- Angela Deneen said in an interview with CNA.
The author revealed that her greatest achievement after embarking on such a journey was something that happened at a book fair: “An African American father came with his wife to buy books for their children. He had so many questions about Africa and Cameroon that he didn’t want to leave my booth. He even grew teary-eyed and said, ‘I want to know more, but I don’t know who to talk to’. That moment reminded me that my books are not just for children — they can also open doors for adults searching for connection, she narrated, adding that, “Another unforgettable moment was when a little girl saw one of my characters and exclaimed, ‘She looks like me!’ That spark of recognition is exactly why I do this. And of course, the excitement and pride expressed by my children from Cameroon when they see themselves and their country celebrated in print is one of my greatest joys.”
Despite writing several books, Angela noted that all the books are close to her heart, but
Tiny Travelers: Discover Cameroon with Ndome, is so special to her because “It introduces children to Cameroon’s landmarks and identity in a joyful way. It shows Cameroonian children that their country, as well as the continent of Africa, is something to be proud of. At the same time, The Moonlight Bloom holds a sacred place for me, as it draws from African folklore and teaches children about magic, courage, and heritage. Together, they reflect what Roots & Rhythms Stories is about: representation, cultural pride, and giving children a voice.”
My motivation comes from the belief that literacy is more than learning to read — it is also about children seeing themselves reflected in the stories they read. When you enjoy and connect with the material, it makes reading more enjoyable. This is my first time giving back in Cameroon, and to this capacity, but it will not be the last. As long as I am writing and publishing Roots & Rhythms Stories, I will remain committed to pairing representation with practical support for literacy.- Angela Deneen Priso
Who is Angela Deneen Priso?
Angela Deneen Priso is a children’s book author whose vibrant stories reflect both her African American roots and her connection to West African traditions. Raised in Gary, Indiana, Angela spent her childhood creating imaginary classrooms, a love of storytelling that grew even deeper during her nearly 20-year career in pediatrics. Today, she crafts globally minded stories that affirm identity, spark curiosity, and center Black children as joyful explorers and leaders. Married to a Cameroonian and inspired by her global travels, Angela blends lived experience with research to create books rich in cultural authenticity. Her latest release, Tutu and Her Little Big Moves, celebrates energy, expression, and the joy of being seen. Angela holds a Master’s degree in Radiologic Sciences and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, and the Indiana Cameroonian Association.
Website: www.rootsrhythmsstories.com
