Eleen Ackie writes a children’s book inspired by her 9-year-old son – Caribbean Life

Vincentian Eleen Ackie wrote “Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store” in honor of her 9-year-old son, Adam, whom she describes as the “heart” of her creative journey.

Ackie, a Brooklyn native who was born on Union Island in Southern St. Vincent Grenadines, shared that the book follows Adam through an exciting neighborhood adventure that celebrates childhood independence, courage, and community warmth. He explained, “It shows kids how small steps can make them more confident.”

“It also highlights the beauty of Caribbean American family life and the importance of love that guides a child’s journey,” he added.
Ackie emphasized: “I wrote this book for my son Adam – my brave little one – so that he and children like him can see themselves in stories full of joy, confidence and community.” Often times, children of color do not have good daily descriptions in books.

“The message I want to convey is simple but powerful: You are brave. You are loved. And the world is brighter because you are in it,” he said.
Ackie said Adam’s walk to the Sunshine Corner store was symbolic.

“It represents the small but meaningful steps children take towards independence, guided by the love of their families and the support of their communities,” he said.
Excerpts from the book “Adam Goes to the Sun Corner Store” read: “Adam confirmed his shiny coin as he went out.” The sun smiled on him, and all the neighbors seemed to be cheering him on.

They added: “With every step, Adam felt confident. He waved to neighbors, waved goodbye to flowers, and followed the path that led him to Sunshine Bakery – his first big game.”

He said his son inspires him to write books that celebrate happiness, confidence and having a good relationship with Black boys—stories in which children like him feel brave, loved and have a lot of opportunity.

Ackie added, “During Black History Month, I feel a deep responsibility to lift up our children, affirm their identity, and remind them that they are part of a strong heritage.
“I have the warmth of the Caribbean and I pour that spirit into every page,” she said. “Writing is my way of honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future.”

He said recording “Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store” was “one of the most rewarding and emotional experiences” of his life.
“It feels like I’m putting a piece of my heart into the world — a piece full of love, legacy and hope,” Ackie said, noting that she grew up on Union Island, where “storytelling, community and tolerance formed the foundation” of who she is.

Today, Ackie balances her professional career, parenting Adam, and writing stories that honor heritage, courage, and the everyday magic of family life.
Ackie said children will read Adam’s story and “feel seen, encouraged, and empowered.”
He said this brings him “great joy and gratitude.”

But Ackie added that “Adam goes to the Sunlight Corner Store” is not just a story.
“It’s a celebration of Caribbean heritage, the joy of the Black boy, and the quiet courage these kids show every day,” he said.

“I hope it inspires families to appreciate the little moments, encourages independence, and reminds kids that they can shine brightly wherever they go,” Ackie added.

He said the book is published voluntarily through Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing).
It is available worldwide through Amazon in paper and ebook formats. Link to Buy: Amazon: Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store.