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The Full Story

About Smiling Coast Press

The independent publishing imprint behind My Little Big Secret.

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Purpose

Created by author Mariam Jallow, Smiling Coast Press was founded with a simple vision: to publish thoughtful, beautifully illustrated children's books without compromising on quality, creativity, or values.

The name is a tribute to Mariam's Gambian heritage. The Gambia is affectionately known as "The Smiling Coast of Africa", making Smiling Coast Press a meaningful nod to where her family comes from and the values of warmth, kindness, and community that continue to inspire her work.

Vision

By publishing independently, every aspect of the book, from the illustrations and trim size to the storytelling and representation, could be carefully considered to ensure the final book reflected the original vision.

As the publishing imprint behind She Tells Tales, Smiling Coast Press is dedicated to creating stories that inspire little hearts, celebrate diverse representation, and encourage meaningful conversations between children and the adults who read with them.

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