Franklin Edwards and His Bookmobile: A Journey of Faith and Literacy in Dallas
In a heartwarming initiative that blends faith, community, and literacy, Franklin Edwards, a 24-year-old author, has launched his innovative bookmobile, affectionately dubbed "The Franklinmobile." This endeavor marks a significant milestone as Trinity Basin Preparatory becomes the first school to host this mobile literary venture. Edwards, who has penned an impressive 16 faith-based books in just three years, is on a mission to inspire young readers and budding authors alike.
A Journey to Authorship
Franklin Edwards’s journey to becoming an author was not one he initially envisioned for himself. "I was always told I was good at writing, but I never really envisioned myself being an author," he shared. Despite his talent, he faced uncertainty about how to embark on the writing process. However, the encouragement he received from others served as a catalyst for his literary pursuits. "When people keep telling you you’re good at something, I take it as a sign," he reflected.
Known in his community as "Franklin the Helper," Edwards not only sells his books for $10 each but also dedicates his time to mentoring young authors and engaging in speaking events. His latest venture, The Franklinmobile, is an extension of his commitment to making literature accessible and engaging for children.
Bringing Books to the Community
Edwards’s vision for The Franklinmobile stems from a desire to reach out to the community rather than waiting for them to come to him. "I had a bookstore, but I wanted to go to the community and not wait for the community to come to me," he explained. This proactive approach led him to set up a makeshift library in front of West Ledbetter school, where he read two of his books to eager elementary school students.
The bookmobile is still in its early stages, with plans for a colorful wrap to make it even more inviting. Edwards’s enthusiasm for sharing stories and fostering a love for reading is palpable, as he embraces every opportunity to positively impact the lives of children.
Impacting Young Lives
The importance of reading in the lives of students cannot be overstated, especially in communities facing various challenges. Principal Dr. Rufus Johnson of Trinity Basin Preparatory has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of literacy. When he arrived at the school, he found reading scores to be a significant challenge. However, through tenacity and community partnerships, including Edwards’s involvement, the school has seen remarkable improvements in reading levels.
"Our reading levels have increased significantly," Johnson stated, highlighting the positive changes that have taken place. He emphasized the role of community partners like Edwards in inspiring students to adopt empowering mantras such as "Do more. Expect more. Be more."
A Student’s Perspective
Kayden Boyd, a 14-year-old school ambassador, embodies the positive changes that can arise from a supportive educational environment. Reflecting on his journey, Boyd admitted that his confidence in reading was lacking when he first joined the school in sixth grade. "I didn’t like talking," he recalled. However, with the encouragement of mentors and a commitment to improving his skills, he has blossomed into a more confident speaker.
Boyd acknowledges the need for discipline in his reading habits, balancing his love for video games with the commitment to read at home. "Discipline to be able to read in and out of school, to read books at home to help my confidence with reading," he noted, illustrating the ongoing journey many students face in developing their literacy skills.
A Safe Haven for Learning
Principal Johnson emphasizes the vital role that Trinity Basin Preparatory plays in the community. "We are the hub of this community. We are a place of peace for our students, for learning, for guidance," he stated. In an environment where students may confront crime and challenges at home, the school serves as a sanctuary for growth and development.
Edwards’s commitment to returning to the school and continuing his outreach efforts reflects his dedication to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through his books. He aims to infuse light and hope into the lives of the students he meets, reinforcing the idea that literature can be a powerful tool for change.
Through The Franklinmobile and his ongoing efforts, Franklin Edwards is not just promoting literacy; he is fostering a sense of community, hope, and inspiration among the young minds of Dallas. His story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that one individual can have on the lives of many, especially when driven by a passion for helping others.