Marie Van Brittan Brown – The Black Female Inventor Who Changed Home Security Forever - Vivian Uwakwe | Nigerian Childrens Book Illustrator & Author

Press Release: Vivian Uwakwe's Lizard Story Delights Over 100 Young Readers at Alliance Française de Port Harcourt

On August 30, 2024, Nigerian children’s book author, illustrator, and publisher Vivian Uwakwe hosted an engaging book reading at Alliance Française de Port Harcourt for her second children’s book, How the Lizard Lost Its Hair (Told Like An African Folktale), captivating the hearts of over 100 primary school pupils.

The event was a vibrant and interactive experience, as the children eagerly joined Uwakwe in reading through the colorful, beautifully illustrated pages of her book. Her ability to connect with the young audience and inspire them with the possibility of becoming future authors was a standout moment during the session.

After the reading, parents, teachers, and guardians participated in a lively Q&A session. Their questions spanned a desire to stay updated on Uwakwe’s future works to discussions on fostering a deeper love of reading in their children and encouraging them to craft their own stories.

The session was expertly moderated by Dr. Lynn Ujiagbe of Learnzone Foundation and David Chukwueke of The Nigerian Literary Society, both well-known literary advocates in Port Harcourt. Together with Uwakwe, they provided insightful answers and valuable guidance to the audience’s inquiries.

The children were especially delighted when they uncovered the mystery of how the lizard lost its hair, a moment that brought the story to an enchanting conclusion. The event left a lasting impression on the young readers, nurturing their love for reading and storytelling rooted in African tradition.

Vivian Uwakwe is an author and illustrator deeply committed to preserving and celebrating her African heritage. In 2022, she was awarded a $1,000 scholarship to the Self Publishing Made Simple (SPMS) workshop, led by esteemed American children’s book authors April Cox and Bobbie Hinman. Since then, Uwakwe has embarked on a mission to document the many stories her father, a talented storyteller, shared with her during her childhood. She proudly considers herself a modern-day African griot.

Her debut book, How The Tortoise Broke Its Shell (An African Folktale), was released in October 2023 and achieved the number one spot in the Children’s African Folk Tales & Myths category on Amazon. How The Lizard Lost Its Hair marks her second release and is an original story told in the traditional African folktale style. Uwakwe believes this timeless storytelling structure is one of the most effective ways to engage and captivate young readers.

Looking ahead, her next book, Why The Spider Lives In A Web (An African Folktale), is scheduled for release in early 2025, with her growing children’s book club eagerly awaiting the launch.

In addition, Uwakwe’s entire collection of books has been accepted for stocking at Roving Heights Bookstore and will soon be available at their Abuja and Lagos branches. She keeps her audience updated via her website VivianUwakwe.com as well as her social media platforms particulsrly her YouTube channel @VivianUwakweStudio.

The Lizard Paints Port Harcourt City, Nigeria, RED!

The Team.

The Guests!

The Event!

The Book Signing.

Book Donation

The Lizard Story Videos (Watch The Making Of The Book!)

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The Lizard Paints Port Harcourt City Red At Alliance Francaise de PHC

On August 30, 2024, Nigerian children’s book author, illustrator, and publisher Vivian Uwakwe hosted an engaging book reading at Alliance Française de Port Harcourt for her second children’s book, How the Lizard Lost Its Hair (Told Like An African Folktale), captivating the hearts of over 100 primary school pupils.

Lizard Story Book 1

How The Lizard Lost Its Hair (Colouring and Activity Book) CLICK TO BUY ON AMAZON

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Early Life

Marie Van Brittan Brown was born on October 30, 1922, in Queens, New York. She was the daughter of Caribbean immigrants and was raised in a working-class family. She went on to graduate from a trade school and worked as a nurse’s aide. Despite facing racial discrimination and prejudice, Marie was determined to make a difference in her community and set out to solve one of the biggest problems facing her neighborhood – crime.

Groundbreaking Invention: The Home Security Sytem

Marie Van Brittan Brown’s innovative solution to crime in her neighborhood was to create a home security system that would allow her and her husband to monitor their home from the comfort of their own bed. The system consisted of four peepholes, a motorized camera, and a two-way intercom system that connected to the TV set. It allowed the Browns to see and speak with anyone who came to their door, as well as unlock the door remotely if necessary.

Marie’s invention was revolutionary for its time. It provided homeowners with an affordable and convenient way to monitor their homes, and it quickly caught the attention of others in the community. In 1966, Marie and her husband filed for a patent for their invention and it was granted the following year.

Personal Life

Marie Van Brittan Brown was married to Albert Brown, who was a technician and worked with her on the development of the home security system. Together, they had three children. In her personal life, Marie was described as a devoted mother and wife who was passionate about her work.

Marie was a strong and independent woman who fought against racial discrimination and prejudice throughout her life. Despite the challenges she faced, she never lost sight of her goal to make a difference in her community and provide people with a sense of security in their own homes.

Legacy

Marie Van Brittan Brown’s invention paved the way for modern home security systems, and her legacy continues to inspire and influence others in the field. Today, her invention is widely recognized as the first iteration of home security systems, and it has been updated and improved upon over the years.

Marie Van Brittan Brown’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the ability of one person to make a difference. Her invention changed the way people thought about home security and provided millions of people with a sense of safety and peace of mind.

She may have been a quiet and unassuming person, but her impact on the world of home security will be remembered for generations to come. Her pioneering home security solution continues to inspire individuals to use technology to address societal problems.