Conscious Culture Publishing, a black owned book publisher known for creating unique afrocentric narratives, will release a new picture book based on one of the world’s most mysterious African female leaders, The Queen of Sheba. Famously mentioned in the Bible, she traveled to Jerusalem to experience the wisdom of King Solomon, however this theme focuses on her challenging journey from princess to Queen. Illustrated using state-of-the-art animation software, author Marlon McKenney was inspired by the desire for his daughter to have strong skills in leadership.


CCP’s fourth picture book, MAKEDA: The Queen of Sheba, is about the struggle of a princess working to lead the kingdom after her father tragically dies. The story highlights her strength and courage as Princess Makeda navigates a toxic male-dominated hierarchy to avenge her father’s death. From child, to princess, to queen, Makeda’s journey is filled with lessons of resilience and redemption. Compiling research from history, scripture, and Ethiopian legend, Marlon’s vision focuses on core principles of leadership that Makeda follows to achieve success.