They Tried to Define Our Children—She Said “Just Call Me Scholar” | Writers With Purpose ft. Terry Ann Williams-Richard

What do you call a child the world tries to mislabel? In this powerful episode of Writers With Purpose, Melvese sits down with author and educator Terry Ann Williams-Richard, who turned a moment of frustration and truth into a movement of affirmation through her children’s book Just Call Me Scholar.Born from real experiences in the classroom and a deeper reflection on identity, this rhythmic, illustrated poem speaks life into children—reminding them they are brilliant, courageous, and worthy of being seen for who they truly are.This conversation goes beyond storytelling. It challenges how we speak to children, how we label them, and how early those labels begin to shape their future. Inside this episode:The real story that sparked Just Call Me ScholarWhy identity and language matter in early childhoodHow reading aloud builds confidence and self-worthThe power of affirmations in shaping young mindsWhy every child deserves to be called a ScholarThis isn’t just a children’s book. It’s a declaration.Press play and remember what we should’ve been saying all along.