When South Orange based author Jen Hayes Lee began reading stories to her three sons, she never imagined that a childhood tradition would spark her first picture book. But the moment she shared the memory of receiving the hoop earrings she wore growing up, she realized it was a symbol of something bigger—heritage, pride and the joy of seeing yourself reflected in a powerful cultural tradition.
That idea became the heart of her debut book, “The Golden Hoops”, a vibrant, imaginative story about a girl named Janey who sets off on an unexpected adventure after misplacing one of her new earrings. What starts as a search for something lost quickly turns into a journey of self-discovery, reminding young readers that their shine doesn’t come from what they wear, but from who they are.
Illustrated by Mokshini, the book blends playfulness with poetic warmth, making it an instant favorite among parents, educators and young readers. Within its first week, The Golden Hoops topped Amazon’s New Releases in its category and caught the attention of voices like Tabitha Brown, Abby Phillip and Charnaie Gordon.
A Story Rooted in Family and Legacy
Janey isn’t just a character—she’s a tribute. Lee named her for her late mother, Dr. Irma J. Bland, who passed away from breast cancer when Lee was 21. Years later, Lee learned she carried the BRCA2 gene mutation and made the decision to undergo a preventative double mastectomy at the same age her mother received her diagnosis. That choice deepened the themes of resilience woven through the book.
“Writing Janey felt like creating a bridge between the women in my family and the children who will hold this story in their hands,” Lee said. “It’s a reminder that the magic we pass down matters.”
Community at the Center
The book’s debut inspired something even larger—the launch of The Golden Hoops Book Drive, a national initiative Lee created to bring stories, author visits and representation-centered programming to children ages 4 to 8. The project focuses on underserved communities and collaborates with underrepresented groups and women-owned bookstores to expand access to culturally meaningful books.
Lee calls golden hoops “a circle of connection,” and her initiative aims to extend that circle outward—to classrooms, youth programs and libraries nationwide.
The need is real: Only 18% of Black and 23% of Hispanic fourth graders read at or above grade level, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Lee’s mission is to create moments of recognition and belonging for children who rarely see their experiences reflected in books.
A Celebration of Representation
The book has already received heartfelt endorsements from leaders in literature, media and culture. Award-winning author Derrick Barnes praised the story for capturing “a universal rite of passage for brilliant Black girls everywhere,” while beauty editor Julee Wilson Wareham described it as “a tale destined to become a cherished classic.”
A private launch reception in Montclair brought together women celebrating sisterhood, storytelling and the power of affirming young readers. The energy of that gathering mirrors the spirit of Lee’s project: community building through joy.
How to Support the Book Drive
The Golden Hoops Book Drive offers several ways for the public to get involved:
• Donate: Every contribution places books directly into children’s hands.
• Nominate: Suggest a teacher, library or youth program for distribution.
• Sponsor: Fund an author visit or larger giveaway.
• Host: Bring a Golden Hoops event to your school, workplace or neighborhood.
The initiative is fiscally sponsored by Zora’s House, making all contributions tax deductible.
About the Author
Lee is an author, content strategist and marketing leader committed to inclusive storytelling. As Head of Marketing and Content at The Bump, she has helped shape national conversations about how families are represented. A New Orleans native now living in New Jersey with her husband and three sons, she is also the founder of Bestow, a brand inspired by her lifelong love of hoop earrings.
Book Information
The Golden Hoops
Written by Jen Hayes Lee
Illustrated by Mokshini