Tika Sumpter Brings New Children’s Book to CS 55 Students at Storyland: The Bronx Book Haven
- Damian Ali
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Queens-born actor and producer Tika Sumpter is bringing her debut children’s book, I Got It From My Mama, to Storyland: The Bronx Book Haven, engaging local students in a special reading event.
From left to right: Tika Sumpter as Maddie, Tails (voiced by Colleen O’Shaughnessey), and Sonic (voiced by Ben Schwartz) in Episode 1, Season 1 of Knuckles, streaming on Paramount+ in 2024. Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures, SEGA, and Paramount+
On April 22, the Sonic the Hedgehog star will visit Storyland's location inside the Bronx Terminal Market for a two-hour "Class Trip Featuring an Author" program. Students from CS 55 will take part in group discussions, movement activities, and a Q&A with Sumpter, who will read from her new book. Each child will receive a complimentary signed copy, provided through a donation from Dollar General and purchased at The Lit Bar, a Bronx-based bookstore.
Set for release through Genius Cat Books, I Got It From My Mama follows Ella, a spirited young girl who sees her mother as her biggest inspiration—flaws and all. The story highlights emotional growth and the importance of learning from mistakes, making it a fitting read for young audiences and families.
"Drawing on my own life experiences as a daughter and a mom to craft this book has been equal parts rewarding and healing," Sumpter shared.
Speaking about her visit to the Bronx, she added: "I'm incredibly excited to partner with Sulma and Storyland to share I Got It From My Mama's message with the next generation of young minds, joining forces with a team that fosters literacy for families in an environment that inspires growth, creativity, connectivity and fun!"
RELATED: How Storyland: The Bronx Book Haven Is Tackling Childhood Literacy—And How You Can Help: Storyland is leading the charge on literacy in the Bronx through community-driven programs that empower children and families.
From left to right: Drew Barrymore, Sulma Arzu-Brown, Dr. Maria Armstrong, and Sunny Anderson. Sulma Arzu-Brown, founder of Storyland: The Bronx Book Haven, holds a $25,000 donation check from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, presented during her appearance as part of the 'Drew-Gooders' segment on the January 17, 2025 episode of The Drew Barrymore Show.
Sulma Arzu-Brown, Executive Director of Storyland, said the event reflects the organization’s deep commitment to community-centered storytelling.
"Storyland is about bringing beautiful people to experience the brilliance of our children. We are grateful that Tika has chosen to share her treasure of a book with us first," she stated.
"Tika’s book also looks at an area of family that we know is important to our community culture, which aligns with Storyland's brand and values." She added: "Tika’s book is a great addition to the Storyland 'Class Trip' program, and I know the kids and parents will appreciate it." [Learn More About Storyland]
Sumpter, originally from Queens, is well-known for her roles in television, film, and family media. In addition to reprising her role as Maddie in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, she recently launched the second season of her children's podcast, Adventures of Curiosity Cove. She’s also co-producing and starring in a rom-com for Amazon MGM Studios and appears in The Underdoggs on Prime Video.
Children seated on Storyland's signature red carpet inside The Bronx Book Haven, engaging in stretching exercises. Photo courtesy of Storyland: The Bronx Book Haven
Storyland continues to grow as a literacy hub and cultural space in the Bronx, connecting children and families with inspiring authors and stories.
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