Welcome to Jamala’s Block
Jamala’s Block: An innovative and enlightening digital neighborhood that covers the intersection of creativity and knowledge. Our online backyard pulsates with the vibrancy of culture, wonder, and generational shared wisdom. Come on down to our street, and learn with us.
About the Book
Mommy, I Have Diabetes is the authentic story of Imani – a young, wise, Black girl – who diagnoses herself with Type 1 diabetes, experiencing an uphill battle to be heard, and leading the way for her mother, her grandparents, and even her doctor to learn about growing up with diabetes. Once Imani learned the signs of diabetes, this persistent little Black girl changed the hearts and minds of every adult in her world.
Book Characters
Imani
Imani is a spunky, bright, spirited young Black girl. In spite of resistance from everyone, she diagnoses herself with Type 1 diabetes, and teaches everyone around her the value of healthcare knowledge.
Mommy
Imani's Mommy works hard, loves her daughter, and takes care of her family. She really doesn't understand diabetes until Imani shows her the way. Mommy is all of us who care about our kids, but who could learn to listen better and let them lead us.
Grandpa
Imani first learns about diabetes in an office visit to his doctor with her Grandpa. She reads the diabetes posters as she’s waiting, and sees herself there. Grandpa is her best friend, and she teaches him, too
Nurse Rogers
Nurse Rogers is the first person who shows Imani how to take care of herself. She is Imani's diabetes teacher. She is direct, funny, and a great healthcare teacher for our wise girl.
Dr. Armstrong
When Dr Armstrong examines Imani, realizing that she diagnosed herself accurately, he is the first character to call her a Wise Girl. He respects her, admires her, and gets her into treatment as quickly as he can.
About the Author
Jamala Lesane, Endearingly known as “Moo,” an extraordinary individual closely linked to the illustrious Tupac Shakur as his cherished first cousin. Drawing inspiration from Tupac’s path, Jamala has carved her own unique journey in the realm of music, following in his footsteps and expressing herself through her distinctive style of rap.
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Top Reviews from The United States
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ April 12, 2023
Kudos to this author that shared her daughter’s journey with type 1 diabetes at onset. This is story that is easy for a family to share and for Organizations that support childhood diabetes must buy this book to educate kids about diabetes. It’s a great learning tool for the class room to the doctors office; including pediatric endocrinologists and pediatricians. Kids are smart and parents need to listen to their kids!
There are lessons to be learned in this little story that packs a big punch of reality. This easy to read story is accompanied by colorful warm illustrations. It’s a Great family gift that is not just for diabetics. Type 1 juvenile diabetes needs exposure to create public awareness and this little book will not collect dust on your book shelf
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ April 3, 2023
What I really like about the book is that it tells us that we all need to be aware of our health, and that we need to pay attention to our bodies and especially to someone that’s telling you they notice somethings wrong no matter what the age is. this is definitely a book that needs to be in the school system.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ April 7, 2023
This book brings awareness to juvenile diabetes and the importance of listening to children. What a wonder girl to diagnose herself with diabetes and the level of awareness to the symptoms of diabetes. Great book! The colors are vibrant and the illustration is amazing!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ March 25, 2023
“Mommy, I Think I Have Diabetes'” is sweet and fun to read. The story is simple, direct, and real. Imani is smart and relentless. Like our own kids, she refuses to give up. Her story gives families a chance to hear each other. My granddaughter loved it. No frills, just a children’s picture book with a moral: Listen to your child, improve her health!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ March 25, 2023
I like the fact that the author, Jamala saying that the children in her community should learn about having diabetes. The illustration is wonderful for children to see what is going on within their bodies. A story well written.
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