Nationwide — Ivory Wants to be a Gerontologist by Aisha C. Young is a heartwarming new children’s book that follows the journey of 10-year-old Ivory, a young girl who discovers her passion for helping older adults through the deep bond she shares with her grandparents. Designed for readers ages 6 to 12, the story introduces the field of gerontology as a meaningful and rewarding career path for youth who enjoy spending time with seniors.
As Ivory spends time with her grandparents, she experiences firsthand the power of love, compassion, and family connection. When a life-changing moment occurs, she realizes that she wants to devote her life to supporting the elderly. In an age when many children are being raised or supported by grandparents, Ivory Wants to be a Gerontologist serves as an inspiring and timely resource that encourages empathy, caregiving, and the importance of giving back to older generations.
More than just a career introduction, the book also explores themes of faith, intergenerational love, and the value of community service. It exposes young readers to several eldercare-related professions, such as nursing and caregiving, and introduces them to the role of a gerontologist: someone who studies the aging process and advocates for the health, dignity, and well-being of older adults.
The story is inspired by the real-life journey of author Aisha C. Young, who discovered her passion for gerontology as a child, thanks to the influence of a school guidance counselor.
A native of Colorado, Aisha holds a B.S. in Gerontology from Bethune-Cookman University, an
M.A. in Gerontology from the University of South Florida, and a Th.M. from Xavier University of Louisiana. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree at Emory University.
In 2009, Aisha founded African Americans in Gerontology (AAIG), a national organization dedicated to promoting awareness and advocacy for aging issues in the Black community. She is also the creator of Reverence Day: Honoring Elderly African Americans, a day set aside to recognize the legacy and contributions of African American elders.
A passionate gerontologist, chaplain, and womanist theologian, Aisha finds joy in civic engagement and cherishes time spent with her daughter, reading, and crafting.
To learn more about African Americans in Gerontology or Reverence Day, please visit www.blacksngerontology.org
About the Book
Ivory Wants to be a Gerontologist
By Aisha C. Young
ISBN#: 979-8-21-86856-9-0
24 pages
Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
For interviews, bookings, or for further information, contact IWTBAG2021@gmail.com