Introduction to Houston’s Birthday Gift
Houston is celebrating its 189th birthday, and local mom and entrepreneur Kat Bailey has given the city a unique gift: Porter’s H-Town ABCs. This picture book, co-created with her two-year-old son Porter, teaches the alphabet through places, people, and stories that make Houston special.
The Creation of Porter’s H-Town ABCs
The idea for the book began when Bailey grew tired of the same old alphabet song and wanted to create something more engaging for her son. She started jotting down Houston-specific entries on her phone, such as Astros for A and Hermann Park for H. Bailey’s goal was to make the book fun for toddlers and informative for parents, blending playful learning with local history.
Overcoming Obstacles to Publication
The path to publication wasn’t easy for Bailey. She faced more than a dozen rejections from publishers, but she didn’t give up. During the six months it took to find a publisher, Bailey learned more about the city she loves and discovered new things. Eventually, she received an acceptance email, and the book was published on Amazon, with plans for wider distribution.
Features of Porter’s H-Town ABCs
The book includes a special interactive section in the paperback edition where children can add their own H-Town entries. This feature makes the book personal for families, according to Bailey. The first copies brought joy to her own family, with Porter and his older siblings thrilled to see themselves and local landmarks in the pages.
The Importance of Representation in Education
Bailey sees the book as more than just an educational tool; it’s a way for young readers to see their city reflected in the stories they learn at an early age. By representing Houston’s unique culture and landmarks, the book helps children develop a sense of pride and connection to their community.
Availability and Conclusion
Porter’s H-Town ABCs is available at major booksellers and through Bailey’s website. As Houston celebrates its 189th birthday, this book is a unique and thoughtful gift to the city. It’s a reminder that education and learning can be fun and engaging, especially when it’s tailored to a child’s local environment. With its interactive features and hometown twist, Porter’s H-Town ABCs is a must-have for any Houston family. Happy birthday, Houston!
