I Am the Dream Come True

From family roots to big dreams, global change maker Marley Dias -- and family -- show how change starts with one brave step... In this bold affirmation of empowerment, strength, and purpose, activist and global change maker Marley Dias introduces her family's legacy of blazing new trails, rising to meet opportunities, and choosing to seek new lands of promise. When Marley launched the #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign, she showed the world that young people can make a difference through action. Now, in this deeply personal narrative, Marley and her parents share the ancestral histories that have forged new opportunities for future generations by reaching for their dreams. Marley Dias made headlines as a sixth grader when she started the #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign to collect children's books featuring black protagonists. Her initiative led to appearances on The Nightly Show, Today, CBS This Morning, and many more. Marley has been featured in the New York Times, has been recognized as a "21 under 21" ambassador for Teen Vogue, is an editor in residence for Elle.com, and launched a national literacy tour in partnership with the White House. Marley lives in New Jersey with her parents. Islenia Mil is an Afro-Latina illustrator specializing in conceptual problem-solving and thoughtful storytelling. Her work is easily recognized by her use of engaging composition, detailed line-work, texture, and vibrant color. Mil's upbringing is a tale of two isles. She spent her childhood between the bustling environment of New York City and the tropical landscape of Santo Domingo, where she was born. When she's not illustrating, Islenia can be found at the gym, reading manga, in a theater, designing, gaming, learning about niche topics, or sleeping.