Book Cover of Amanda Gorman: Poet and Activist

Learn all about Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, in this Step 2 biography reader!

Poet and activist Amanda Gorman captivated millions of viewers across the nation as she read her poem, The Hill We Climb, at the historic inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in 2021. In this Step 2 reader, kids will learn all about Amanda: how she overcame obstacles through poetry, about her commitment to helping young people find their voice, and her unique journey to becoming the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history!

Step 2 readers use basic vocabulary and short sentences to tell simple stories. They are perfect for children who recognize familiar words and can sound out new words with help.

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Press & Praise

  • "While some of the specific details of her accolades and life events are simplified, young readers will still gain a rich understanding of her life. Realistic illustrations also help breathe to life the highlights of Gorman’s journey thus far. VERDICT A recommended purchase for ­libraries looking to include relevant, inspiring individuals in their biography collections for young readers."

    —School Library Journal

  • "Amanda Gorman: Poet and Activist” introduces readers ages four to six to Amanda Gorman, the young Black woman whose poem, “The Hill We Climb” was read at the inauguration of President Joe Biden. Her inspirational story is just the thing to give young readers the confidence to follow their dreams."

    —The Root

Picture of the front cover of Stop Waiting for Perfect

Don’t let impostor syndrome and self-doubt derail your dreams—learn to trust your vision and take control of your future.

Award-winning journalist, motivational speaker, and blogger L’Oreal Thompson Payton is a self-professed success junkie and poster girl for “overly” ambitious high achievers everywhere. She also knows firsthand how imposter syndrome and self-doubt can derail your dreams. She’s experienced the growing pains that come with big career and life changes. But she’s also come out the other side ready to kick ass, take names, and bring everyone she possibly can along with her.

In Stop Waiting for Perfect, she’s doing just that: using that hard-won insight to be your guide, your big sister, your best friend, and personal cheerleader to help you through your own journey. She’s penned the pocket-sized pep talk to walk with you through any obstacle in your career or personal life.

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What People Are Saying

  • “Life is hard, but sometimes the way we talk to and about ourselves can be harder. So getting sound advice from someone who’s not only going to remind you of your greatness but also help you get out of your own way is a joy. ”

    —Phoebe Robinson, ​​New York Times bestselling author, actor, and comedian

  • “An incomparable blueprint for any person, especially those among us who are marginalized, who want to get off the hamster wheel of perfection and reclaim their ability to be simply human. Let L’Oreal’s book serve as a brilliant and urgent reminder that we are already enough, regardless of what we’ve achieved.”

    —Evette Dionne, award-winning author of Lifting as We Climb and Weightless

  • “With tongue-in-cheek charm and down-to-earth sense, L’Oreal Thompson Payton makes it easy to live life loud (or, at least, louder) and act with enthusiasm, courage, and trust in your own talent.”

    —Minda Harts, workplace and equity consultant and author of The Memo

  • “For generations we’ve been fed the lie that being perfect—or close to it will save us. Stop Waiting for Perfect allows us to find practical ways to heal those wounds of deceit . . .So grateful that this book empowers us and our communities to let go of the trap of perfectionism and make room for our purpose.”

    —Melissa Kimble, culture writer, producer, and founder of #blkcreatives

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CBS Mornings

Author, journalist and motivational speaker L'Oreal Thompson Payton joins CBS Mornings to discuss her new book Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power.

Chicago Tonight: Black Voices

Perfectionism might sound like a good thing, but in practice, it can perform more like procrastination – and waiting for perfect scenarios can prevent us from getting the credit and success we deserve. 

Press & Media

Author Talks & School Visits

Invite L’Oreal to speak at your company, event or school. Whether it’s a keynote address, an interactive workshop, or a calming yoga and meditation session, L’Oreal is able to offer a dynamic and empowering session tailored for your unique needs.