Growing Up True Book Launch

 Stoutsburg Sourlands African American Museum invites you to the launch of Growing Up True, our new children’s book inspired by the True family—African American landowners and farmers from the Sourland Mountain region. This special event connects past and present with a live reading of the opening chapter under the blackberry patch, followed by Heritage Garden harvesting, creative activities like poetry and art rooted in the land, and an opportunity to meet the team behind the story—author Ryan Jillian Kilpatrick, illustrator Sudesna Samanta, and SSAAM board member Patricia “Patty” Payne. Wrap up the morning with fresh cobbler and an optional foraging walk through the historic grounds.

This project was made possible thanks to grants from the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Together, their support brings community-centered storytelling and local history to life.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a rich legacy of community, creativity, and history. Purchase family tickets—including a copy of the book and cobbler—via the link below.

Click here to buy tickets.