Monique Couvson (formerly Monique W. Morris), president/CEO of Grantmakers for Girls of Color and co-founder of the National Black Women's Justice Institute, is the author of several books, including Pushout; Black Stats; Sing a Rhythm, Dance a Blues; and Charisma's Turn (all from The New Press). Her work has been featured by NPR, the New York Times, MSNBC, Essence, The Atlantic, TED, the Washington Post, Education Week, and others. She lives in New York.
"Praise for Charisma's Turn: ""Charisma’s Turn is a vividly illustrated graphic novel. . . . The storyline exemplifies the power of supportive educators and community members in cultivating spaces where Black girls' activism can be nurtured and flourish."" —Rethinking Schools “Jones’s vividly saturated art recalls Annie Lee’s Black Americana style, smartly complementing the subject matter and addressed literary references. Via a sympathetic protagonist who often feels overlooked, Couvson . . . highlights mature ruminations on how best to support struggling teens.” —Publishers Weekly “An inspiring story. . . . Couvson’s graphic novel is a positive and modern view on the life of a Black teenage girl who blossoms once she is listened to and supported by family, friends, and teachers.” —School Library Journal “[Charisma’s Turn] models the important ways many educators care about and uplift marginalized students who may feel overlooked and undervalued.” —Kirkus Reviews ""In this beautifully illustrated graphic novel that will appeal to young and old, Monique Couvson shows us once again how to release the powerful genius of Black girls."" —Lisa Delpit, MacArthur Fellow and author of “Multiplication Is for White People”: Raising Expectations for Other People’s Children"