Rae Chesny is a distinguished Zora Neale Hurston Scholar, accomplished interdisciplinary writer, social education expert, and Literary Consultant at Johns Hopkins University. She dedicates her time to researching, writing, and presenting on the literary legend Zora Neale Hurston, while also writing her own books and inspiring children to express themselves through storytelling. In 2017, Rae founded the Junior Storyteller Program, which provides children from historically underrepresented communities with the opportunity to develop their writing skills and become published authors.
When author Rae Chesny was invited to introduce a Black literary figure for Michigan State University’s Black History Series, her research on Langston Hughes turned into a wildly personal adventure with Zora Neale Hurston (Their Eyes Were Watching God).
Rae was frustrated with the lack of representation of women in the literature of the Harlem Renaissance. She decided to take matters into her own hands by promoting the legacy of Zora through extensive research, travel, and presentations. As she delves deeper into her studies, she feels a connection with Zora and believes that she is being called to carry on her work. Rae has become more and more determined to strengthen her connection with her literary hero, even if it means sacrificing her time and effort. After discovering a collection of letters, Rae decided to establish a correspondence with Zora, hoping to forge a deeper relationship. Through the letters and her research, she realizes that she shares many personal experiences with Zora.
Rae Chesny is passionate about bringing attention to the untold stories of Black History. On September 7, which is National Buy a Book Day, it’s a great opportunity to inspire your kids to read and maybe even write their own books. You can stay up to date with Rae Chesny’s amazing work by visiting her website: https://raechesny.com/.
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