“How to Be Big Like Ants” is perfect for my students and supports our classroom’s SEL focus. The main character, Cairo reinforces value of self, collaboration, and healthy ways to cope with challenges that children experience. I am eager to use the discussion questions included in the book. My classroom and our school will introduce this book to our students for years to come. ♥️' 

- First Grade Teacher

''I loved how [Malika} incorporated social emotional learning and mindfulness into the program. My favorite part of the story-time event was when students were reading aloud from her book, I definitely had a tear or two in my eye.' 

- SPL School Age Program Manager

'...The author was fun, engaging, creative, and informative...' - 5th Grade Teacher

'Malika is an energetic, engaging speaker who definitely captured our students' attention. Loved her book, too!' - Librarian at Seattle Public Schools 

'Malika's warmth and openness created a space for children and families to openly engage with her story, How To Be Big Like Ants, and each other. It was beautiful to see kids reading aloud and finding common ground with Cairo and her older siblings.' - Seattle Public Library Children’s Librarian

'We got such positive feedback from everyone in attendance 🙂 an extra special thanks to you Malika for writing and sharing such a relevant text with the youth we work with!' - Literacy Program Coordinator