Black archaeologist launches new children’s book series that lets kids step into the past

by Xina Eiland

Imagine a world where children don’t just read about history — they witness it firsthand. That’s the vision behind “The Resurrectors,” a groundbreaking new children’s book series from award-winning author and historical archaeologist Dr. Cheryl Janifer LaRoche. Through the power of time travel, “The Resurrectors” transports young readers into the heart of America’s freedom struggle, letting them stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the heroes who shaped our world.

Launched recently on Kickstarter, “The Resurrectors” invites supporters, educators, parents and history lovers to help bring this immersive project to life. Dr. LaRoche chose the crowdfunding platform to maintain creative control over her vision, connect directly with readers who share her passion for accessible and empowering history, and validate the urgent need for books that counter growing restrictions on teaching Black history in schools. In addition, the Kickstarter campaign will enable the book to complete production by January 2026 and go live on Amazon by February 2026.

“History isn’t just something that happened a long time ago,” says Dr. LaRoche. “I want children to feel the courage, hope and determination of those who came before them. By using time travel as the book’s theme, I’m giving kids the chance to imagine witnessing history as if they’re really there — to see, hear and feel what it was like to fight for freedom. That’s how we make history real, and that’s how we inspire the next generation to carry it forward.”

The campaign offers early editions, behind-the-scenes artwork, and other opportunities to support this book — at a time when schools are facing growing restrictions on teaching Black history.

Blending the thrill of science fiction with the truth of America’s freedom movement, “The Resurrectors” brings to life real figures like Henry Highland Garnet, the first Black person to speak on the floor of Congress, who utilized his oratorical and political talents to become an active leader in the anti-slavery movement. Through vivid storytelling and stunning illustration, the book transforms history from a distant memory into a living, breathing adventure.

Designed for children to young adult readers, “The Resurrectors” fuses accurate history with imaginative storytelling, which ensures that young people see a reflection of themselves in the heroes of America’s past. Dr. LaRoche believes representation in children’s literature is not just about visibility; it’s about empowerment.

“When children see heroes who look like them, history becomes personal,” Dr. LaRoche explains. “They begin to believe that courage, resilience and the power to change the world aren’t reserved for others; they’re qualities they carry within themselves. That’s when they realize they, too, can be heroes.”

About ‘The Resurrectors’

Dr. Cheryl Janifer LaRoche is an award-winning author and historical archaeologist whose research on the Underground Railroad has transformed how America understands its freedom story. “The Resurrectors” is a book series by Dr. LaRoche, blending history and imagination to empower young readers. The Kickstarter campaign launched on Oct. 16, 2025, offers exclusive rewards to help bring these hidden heroes to life and inspire a new generation to see history as their superpower.

About the author

Dr. Cheryl Janifer LaRoche is a nationally recognized scholar and author whose groundbreaking research on the Underground Railroad has redefined how thinkers and educators understand America’s freedom movement. Her work has been featured by the Smithsonian Institution, PBS and numerous universities, and her mission is to ensure that the heroes of African American history continue to inspire and empower future generations.

For more information, contact Xina Eiland at xina@xinapr.com.

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