Juanita Chenault Carman papers

Collection

Identifier: 414

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The papers of Juanita Carman contain fourteen self-published books, including five editions of her most established series, Reach Out, as well as the first and last editions of her series, Super Seniors: African Americans 100 Years and Plus. The other books feature poems, essays, and reading skill pamphlets all written by Carman. Also included are biographical materials, poetry, and self-made bookmarks and a bumper sticker.

Dates

Created: 1981-1996
Other: Date acquired: 11/12/1996

Creator

Carman, Juanita Chenault (1923-) (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

Copyright to these papers has not been assigned to the Amistad Research Center. It is the responsibility of an author to secure permission for publication from the holder of the copyright to any material contained in this collection.

Biographical Note

Juanita Chenault Carman (1923-2002) was an educator, social worker, poet, and author best known for her self-published works. She earned her BBA from Kentucky State University in 1945 and obtained her teaching certificates in elementary and secondary education from Chicago State University. She worked as a social worker for nine years and then as a teacher for sixteen years. During her years as a teacher, she began publishing her students' works and her own works to promote reading skills and creativity. Her most established series were Super Seniors, which focuses on centenarian African Americans, and Reach Out, which are reading skills books for children and adults. Her poetry primarily reflects on her experiences as an African American educator and self-publisher. She was recognized for her work through awards and honors such as the Living Legacy Certificate of Recognition in 1988, the Distinguished Leadership Award from the American Biographical Institute, and the Golden Poet Award from the World of Poetry.