By: Jay Feldman
In an era where diversity and inclusion are more than just buzzwords, Falhouse Books emerges as a pioneering force, championing the cause of underrepresented authors and children. This visionary publishing house is not just crafting stories; it’s creating a world where every child sees themselves reflected in literature, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. At the heart of Falhouse’s mission is the belief that literature should serve as a mirror to society’s diversity, ensuring that no voice or experience goes unheard.
Founded by a father-daughter duo, Oluyemi and Dr. Mo Falomo, Falhouse Books was born out of a passion for storytelling and a deep commitment to social change. Oluyemi, recovering from a severe case of Covid-19, found solace and therapy in working with his daughter to publish a story he told his children over thirty years ago. This recovery period culminated in the creation of Falhouse Books and the publication of their debut book, “The Princess and the Gourd,” a children’s book steeped in African heritage that teaches timeless values such as compassion and responsibility. The story is not just another addition to the crowded market of children’s literature; it represents hope, healing, and the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries.
Dr. Falomo, co-founder and CEO of Falhouse Publishing, brings her expertise as a child development specialist and clinical audiologist into play with the launch of their groundbreaking campaign, “Let Them Shine.” This initiative shines a spotlight on children living with hearing loss, language difficulties, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – that affect millions yet often remain shrouded in misunderstanding. “Let Them Shine” aims to illuminate these conditions while providing parents and guardians with invaluable resources to help their children thrive.
Two to three out of every 1,000 kids in the U.S. are born with some degree of hearing loss; dyslexia affects up to 20 percent of the population; and autism diagnoses have soared from 1 in 150 twenty years ago to 1 in 36 today. These numbers highlight an urgent need for awareness, understanding, and action – pillars upon which “Let Them Shine” stands firmly.
Falhouse Books’ approach is revolutionary yet simple: use storytelling as both an educational tool and a bridge towards empathy and cultural awareness. “We couldn’t be happier that our debut children’s book is making its way into homes around the world,” says Dr. Falomo. Supported by over 160 backers worldwide on Kickstarter, “The Princess and the Gourd” has become more than just a book; it’s become a movement and celebration of culture and diversity.
Their commitment extends beyond traditional publishing avenues into leveraging social media platforms to engage with their audience directly. Through Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and their website, they’ve created an interactive community where stories spark conversations about diversity, disability awareness, and inclusivity.
Falhouse Books is intentional about weaving narratives that resonate deeply with underrepresented communities while educating broader audiences on issues that matter. By highlighting stories like “The Princess and the Gourd” alongside campaigns like “Let Them Shine,” they underscore an unwavering belief in literature’s transformative power – not only entertaining children but also supporting parents in nurturing cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
As we look towards the future through Falhouse’s lens, we see more than just potential; we see aim—an aim to continue breaking barriers through compelling storytelling that inspires empathy across generations. In doing so, they’re not only changing how underrepresented voices are heard but how they’re celebrated within our society.
Falhouse Books stands as proof that when passion meets purpose underpinned by genuine care for societal advancement—magic happens—the kind that reshapes perspectives one page at a time.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
