School board leader writes children’s book about coronavirus

Oberlin City Schools Board of Education president Jason Williams once again is making a difference in the lives of families in the county.

But this time, it’s with a book Williams wrote himself.

In an effort to educate people about ways to combat the novel coronairus pandemic, he penned, “The Awesome Adventures of Amina and Amir: COVID-19 and the 5 Healthy Habits.”

As of last week, the book was cataloged in the Library of Congress.

Williams, who is founder of Get with Program, a STEM based nonprofit organization, wanted to continue to educate children during the pandemic.

“While discussing COVID-19, school closures, and why my children could not play with their friends anymore, I had the idea of presenting this information through a children’s book,” he said. “I realized that all children were experiencing this, and I wanted to provide accurate information, as well as practical steps children can follow to help protect themselves.”

Not only did Williams write the book, but he added a personal touch by modeling the characters off of his children Jaylynn Amina, 12, Amir,11, and 5-year-old Anissa.

He said the process of writing and illustrating the book was quick and gave him a chance to still engage children from home.

“I am always looking for ways to engage children around STEM,” Williams said. “Unfortunately, COVID-19 ended all of our school programs throughout Northeast Ohio. “… I was fortunate enough to work with a very talented illustrator named Dan Gregus, of Crownhill Concepts.

“The entire process, from idea to actually publishing the book, was approximately two and a half months.”

Although the process was quick, Williams said there were a few challenges during the creation process.

In order to get accurate information for the book, Williams did research that included consulting with three doctors and one virologist.

“The process was exciting, and exhaustive,” he said. “It was exciting, because I showed my children how to bring an idea into fruition.

“It was also exhaustive because I worked remotely with illustrator, Dan Gregus. There were numerous phone calls, text messages and emails sent back and forth to make the artwork what it is.”

Overall, Williams wants to use science to help people understand the importance of proper hand sanitization and educating and empowering families during the pandemic.

“Firstly, I want children and adults to learn the five healthy habits to help limit the spread of germs and viruses, especially the coronavirus, which causes COVID-19. Secondly, I want to empower families. The world is facing a public health crisis.”