Small Beginnings

Before Merze Tate was born, her ancestors had blazed trails as abolitionists, entrepreneurs, inventors, and pioneers. Merze inherited that same spirit as she left the white pine woods of Blanchard, Michigan to explore the world. As first African American graduate of Oxford University, she led a life that continues to give back to others.

In this children's book, Small Beginnings: The Photographic Journey Through the Life of Merze Tate, children experience, through her own photographs, some of her most triumphant life moments. Told in poetic format, the book highlights some of Merze's most triumphant life moments that will inspire those of all ages to live a life without boundaries.

As the first African American graduate of Oxford University, Tate would go on to achieve many more "firsts." The Howard University history professor was often sought by the Department of State for her expertise in atomic energy. Her bestselling books on international politics and her patents moved her to millionaire status and allowed her to leave millions in financial and assets to universities across the country. 

Finally, a refreshing story of an amazing woman in history whose contributions to international history is finally told to children to give them a new historical figure to emulate.

Sonya and Sean Hollins have come together, once again, to bring Michigan history to life. The couple own Fortitude Graphic Design and Printing and Season Press LLC. The two consulting firms have helped dozens of authors self publish works of various genres. The Hollins' have more than 25 years of graphic design and journalism experience that they use to bring history to life in ways that inspire those of all ages in the 21st Century. 

The couple also has published Benjamin Losford and His Handy Dandy Clippers, and The Journey Blessings journal.