Jannesy DeLeon Inspires a New Wave of Inclusion Through Transformative Children’s Stories
Photo: Author Jannesy DeLeon, a storyteller dedicated to promoting inclusion and celebrating diversity, shares joyful tales inspired by her children.
Championing Diversity and Representation in Children’s Literature
Author Jannesy DeLeon crafts heartfelt stories inspired by her children, Gabriella and Nicholas, highlighting inclusion, disability representation, and the joy of diversity through books like Tag! You’re It.
Jannesy DeLeon, an inspiring author and passionate advocate for inclusion, has carved a unique space in children’s literature by weaving heartwarming stories that explore themes of diversity and compassion. Her works resonate deeply with readers of all ages, inviting them to witness the joy, resilience, and humanity of children with disabilities. Originally from the Bronx and now residing in the tranquil Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Jannesy’s journey into the world of storytelling is intertwined with her life as a mother and full-time caregiver to two extraordinary children, Gabriella and Nicholas. In an exclusive feature previously published in Reader’s House magazine, Jannesy shared her reflections, which serve as a foundation for this write-up in Mosaic Digest.
Jannesy’s books, such as the celebrated Tag! You’re It, stand as shining examples of children’s literature that truly embrace inclusivity. Featuring vibrant characters like Gabby and Nicky, the story not only celebrates their unique personalities but actively works to redefine what it means to be a hero. With vivid imagery and relatable themes, Jannesy’s narratives provide more than entertainment—they create meaningful opportunities for readers to learn about acceptance, friendship, and respect for differences. The impact of her work is evident, sparking conversations in classrooms, libraries, and homes about the beauty of diversity and representation.
Jannesy DeLeon’s deeply empathetic storytelling uplifts marginalized voices, fostering an inclusive world with heartfelt, memorable characters and messages.
Jannesy’s personal experiences as a mother deeply shape her storytelling. Her two children, Gabriella and Nicholas, live with complex medical conditions and require non-verbal and non-ambulatory care. Despite these challenges, their humor, personality, and resilience serve as her greatest source of inspiration. “My stories are a way to show their world—their joy, their value—to families and children who may not otherwise see it,” Jannesy says. Her mission extends beyond writing; it’s a movement to shift perceptions, ensuring children with disabilities are not only included in books but celebrated as central, joyful characters.
In Tag! You’re It, readers are invited to explore themes of friendship and empathy through the lens of Gabby and Nicky’s experiences. For Jannesy, inclusion isn’t complicated—it’s simply about creating spaces where everyone feels valued. She hopes her young audience walks away empowered to ask questions, exercise curiosity, and lead with compassion. For families navigating disabilities, Jannesy’s stories offer a sense of visibility and belonging, underscoring that representation should go beyond visibility to celebrate value.
“My stories are a way to show their world—their joy, their value—to families and children who may not otherwise see it.” – Jannesy DeLeon
Managing a writing career while caregiving comes with its challenges, and Jannesy candidly shares that her creative windows often arrive sporadically. “There are stretches where I don’t even look at a manuscript for months,” she admits. Yet, her passion remains unshaken, and she uses those moments of creativity to craft stories imbued with meaning and purpose. Balancing work and home life isn’t just a logistical endeavor—it’s a testament to her dedication. Writing, for Jannesy, is more than an aspiration; it’s a commitment to fostering understanding and positivity for future generations.
“Inclusion isn’t a complicated concept. It’s about creating space where everyone feels like they belong.” – Jannesy DeLeon
Representation in children’s literature is a theme that Jannesy actively champions. While diversity initiatives have gained momentum, disability representation still struggles to catch up. Jannesy’s stories confront these gaps head-on, ensuring children with disabilities are not side characters but the heart of the narrative. “In my books, children with disabilities aren’t teaching tools or symbols of pity—they’re joyful, funny, and complex humans worthy of being centered,” she asserts. Her hope is that educators and families use her books to spark meaningful conversations about inclusion—not in abstract terms but through actionable examples of kindness and empathy.
Fortunately, fans of Jannesy’s work have much to look forward to. Her upcoming children’s book, Here Comes Sam, draws inspiration from her family’s real-life rescue dog, Sam, who forged an unbreakable bond with Gabby and Nicky. Beyond the pages of her books, Jannesy is branching into new projects, such as caregiver resources, inclusion workshops for children, and tools empowering educators to implement her message in classrooms. Her work transcends literature, touching lives in practical and impactful ways.
At Mosaic Digest, we recognize the profound importance of stories like Jannesy’s in fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world. With every page she writes, Jannesy DeLeon brings the light of her children’s joy to readers everywhere, reminding us that diversity is not only about acceptance but celebration. Her commitment to reshaping narratives in children’s literature provides meaningful encouragement for all of us to move toward a world where every child feels seen, valued, and revered.
Source: Reader’s House Magazine
