Incarcerated Author Creates Children's Book Series for 2.7 Million Kids with Incarcerated Parents

The GWiz Series, a four-book collection now available on Amazon, addresses one of the most underserved populations in children's literature. Beautifully illustrated by Kenya Kelly, the series follows children navigating the emotional complexities of having a parent behind bars, a reality affecting millions of families yet rarely reflected in mainstream publishing. While serving a federal sentence, Taquarius Ford has accomplished what major publishing houses have largely failed to do: create children's literature that speaks directly to the 2.7 million American children living with an incarcerated parent.

"These children have been invisible for too long," said Amy Irvine, a childcare specialist. "While Taquarius faces his own unjust circumstances, he chose to use his voice to help the kids who need hope the most." The series includes GWiz and Dad's Road Home, GWiz and the Brave Waiting, GWiz and the Strength of Family, and The Day Dad Came Home. Each book provides age-appropriate guidance for children processing separation, maintaining family bonds, joy, and finding resilience during a parent's incarceration. Ford's work fills a critical gap identified by child welfare advocates, educators, and counselors who have long struggled to find appropriate resources for this vulnerable population.

Taquarius Ford's creative output from prison challenges conventional narratives about incarcerated individuals and demonstrates the untapped potential within the prison system. His case has drawn attention from criminal justice reform advocates who argue his sentence, for a non-violent offense exemplifies the need for sentencing reform. The books are available for purchase on Amazon.com. Those interested in learning more about Ford's case and supporting clemency efforts can visit FreeTheBro.com, FreeTaquarius.com, or sign the petition at Change.org/freetaquarius.

The significance of this development extends beyond literature into social justice and child welfare. For decades, children with incarcerated parents have lacked representation in mainstream media and educational materials, creating feelings of isolation and stigma. Ford's work provides these children with characters and stories that validate their experiences, offering tools for emotional processing that were previously unavailable. This initiative highlights how incarcerated individuals can contribute meaningfully to society despite their circumstances, challenging stereotypes about rehabilitation and human potential.

Educators and mental health professionals have noted the practical implications of having developmentally appropriate resources for this population. The GWiz Series offers concrete strategies for maintaining family connections during incarceration, processing complex emotions, and building resilience. This addresses a documented need in child development literature, where the specific challenges faced by children of incarcerated parents have received insufficient attention. The availability of these books through mainstream channels like Amazon makes them accessible to families who might otherwise struggle to find relevant resources.

Ford's work also intersects with broader criminal justice reform discussions, demonstrating how current sentencing practices may limit societal contributions from incarcerated individuals. The attention his case has received through platforms like Change.org/freetaquarius illustrates growing public interest in reconsidering non-violent offense sentencing. This children's book series represents both a practical resource for vulnerable children and a symbolic challenge to systems that often overlook the humanity and potential of incarcerated individuals.