“He inspired many with his personal story, commitment to children, and just the right amount of humor.” My conversation with Comedian, Author, Founder of Barbershop Books and Award-Winning Social Entrepreneur Alvin Irby.

Alvin Irby is a former kindergarten teacher turned award-winning social entrepreneur, international speaker, comedian, and author. He is Founder and Chief Reading Inspirer at Barbershop Books, a national literacy organization that inspires young children to read for fun. His work connecting reading to male-centered spaces and involving men in boys’ early reading experiences earned him the National Book Foundation’s Innovations in Reading Prize. Irby’s popular TED Talk "How to inspire every child to be a lifelong reader," has been viewed over 1 million times. His debut children’s book, Gross Greg, combines Irby’s passion for early literacy and comedy. Gross Greg is a laugh-out-loud story that captures the hilariously gross behavior of kids everywhere. As a stand up comedian, Irby's fresh perspective and smart brand of humor shine through in his comedy album "Really Dense." https://www.alvinirby.com