Bestselling Author Meena Harris, niece of Kamala Harris, Shares New Book at Walker

New York Times bestselling author, lawyer and Tony Award winner Meena Harris visited The Walker School on Wednesday to read her new children’s book, Maya’s Big Question, to students in the Walker Primary and Lower Schools. 

Harris, who also is the niece of Vice President Kamala Harris, said the visit marked a milestone for her. 

“This is the very first time I’ve come to Georgia as an author and the first time ever that I’ve gone to visit schools here to read my book,” Harris told students. “My book is finally out. It came out last week, and I’m excited to read it to you.” 

Fifth-grade ambassadors welcomed Harris to campus and later joined students in asking questions about her work and the inspiration behind her books. 

Maya’s Big Question continues the story of Maya, a character first introduced in Harris’ bestselling children’s book Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea, which was inspired by a true story Harris heard growing up about her mother and aunt. 

“That story had themes around teamwork and making your community better,” Harris told students. “It was a story my grandmother told me when I was growing up, and when I became a new mom I wanted to share that story with my daughters.” 

At the time, Harris was working as a lawyer and did not expect writing to become a major part of her career. 

“I thought it would be a fun family project and that I would go back to my job,” she said. “But now I’m on my fifth book. It’s been an unexpected journey becoming an author.” 

Harris told students that many of her stories draw inspiration from her own family, as well as the questions her daughters ask. 

“I write what I know about and what my experience has been in my family,” she said. “I’ve had incredible role models in my family, and I wanted to share those values through my books.” 

During the question-and-answer session, students asked about Harris’ other work, including running a media company that produces films, television shows and theater productions.

“I wear many different hats,” Harris said. “But what’s really fun about writing children’s books is that I finally feel like I get to live out my passion as my job.” 

Harris also encouraged students to think about how small actions can help improve their communities. 

“One of the messages in Maya’s Big Question is that making a change can start with just a question,” she said. “Maybe you notice something others haven’t seen before, or something that could be better. Teamwork and taking action can help turn those questions into big ideas.” 

Harris said the best part of being an author is connecting with young readers. 

“The best part is getting to visit schools all over the country and meet young, incredible minds like yours,” she told students. “I’m so thankful that you welcomed me to your school and let me read my new book to you.