New Children's Book Series Teaches Crucial Lessons About Life and Success

Oakland, CA (September 5, 2012) -- Most of us can remember at least one book that changed the way we viewed our world - a book that opened our minds to new possibilities and even inspired us to dream. The new Thompson Twins book series might just be that inspiration for this generation of children who need to believe in themselves and their capacity to live successful lives. Dr. Lesa Hammond, author of the new series, knows the positive impact role models can have in a child's life. She created the book series with characters and role models that are relatable to young readers.

"I liked that everything that happened was a surprise," said Andres Rivera, age 10, from Ascend School in Oakland, CA. The first book of the series, The Thompson Twins Las Vegas Adventure, spins a delightful tale as the twins take their first plane trip, meet with a top hotel executive and even pursue an elusive superstar!

"Using real life role models imparts a powerful message to young people," says Hammond. "They learn that success is achievable even when faced with adversity." With the rising rates of crime in the inner city, this salient message is increasingly important for the youth growing up in these areas. The books follow biracial (African American and Latino) twins, Letty and Carlos Thompson as they embark on different adventures that allow them to meet and interact with, what Hammond calls, "Everyday Role Models." People like nurses, policewomen, and businessmen and women who are plucked right out of their community and onto the pages of each book. To carry home the message that the role models are real people, a picture and short bio of the featured role model appears at the back of the book.

Refreshingly relatable to the daily lives of inner city children, the Thompson Twins series still remains global in its appeal and is culturally appropriate for children from all backgrounds.

Lesa Hammond is the founder of Achievement U, Inc. She has worked in the fields of education and human resources for more than 15 years and holds a PhD in Transformative Learning and Change. Her research on unlearning oppression and role model theory led to the development of the Thompson Twins book series.

The books are currently available for purchase through Amazon.com, other online retailers or ask for them at your local bookstore. The Thompson Twins is a project of Achievement U, Inc. - A non-profit organization devoted to empowering young people to reach for their dreams.

For more information go to www.achievementu.org or contact info@achievementu.org or 510-677-5258.

Source: http://www.blacknews.com/news/thompson_twins_book_series_dr_lesa_hammond101.shtml