Shamika Fusco was born and raised in Rochester, New York. She is a Children’s Outreach Librarian for the Rochester Public Library. Shamika received her bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York, College at Brockport in May 2002, with a major in Interdisciplinary Arts for Children. She received her masters degree in Library Information and Science in 2014. She has worked with families and children extensively over the last 25 years.
What are you reading now?
Are you a fiction or non-fiction reader?
Non-Fiction
Share a favorite quote from a book you’ve read. Why is it meaningful to you?
“A person’s a person no matter how small.” Dr.Seuss
This quote is meaningful to me because I feel like we all play a special role in life and it doesn’t matter how big or small we are, we can all contribute and have a purpose.
What book are you recommending that everyone read right now?
I am recommending The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Is there a book you feel is highly overrated?
I feel like the Twilight series is overrated.
What book changed your life, or changed how you view the world?
Talking Back, Talking Black: Truth About America’s Lingua by John McWhorter
Are there any other books that marked milestones in your life?
Hopefully the one I plan to write one day 🙂
What book challenged you the most when you read it?
I don’t have a specific answer for this question but my overall challenge is the lack of diversity in books, particularly in the area of everyday life. I would love to see books that represent the lives and personalities of African Americans but not always from a “We Shall Overcome” perspective. Our history is extremely important and it is my hope that my grandchildren will have an array of books to choose from that depict all the wonderful things that people of color are capable of.
Do you read with your children? What are some of their favorite books?
Yes but not as often as I should have. We loved the Sandra Boynton Board Book series. I also made it a point to have books that were racially reflective of my household. I always gravitate to African American literature such as Bright Eyes, Brown Skin, Shades of Black and I Love my Hair.
Does reading influence your decision-making process?
Sometimes, mostly my perspective going forth. I may not change my decision but I feel like can respect a broader scope and be humble as well as respectful of the opposed.
Are you a “finisher” or do stop reading a book if you’re not connecting with it?
I will not finish a book if I am disconnected.
Why do you read?
I read mostly for factual and applicable information. I like to read about things that can change my life.
It's All About the Book 