Author Jessica Garrett Modkins Releases Children’s Book Celebrating the History of Miami’s Richmond Heights
Author and historian Jessica Garrett Modkins has released Miami’s Richmond Heights: Early Learner Edition, a beautifully illustrated children’s book designed to introduce young readers to the history and legacy of one of South Florida’s most influential Black communities.
Created for elementary-aged children, the book uses colorful illustrations and simple storytelling to explain how Richmond Heights became a thriving neighborhood where Black families—including veterans, educators, entrepreneurs and professionals—built strong foundations despite the challenges of segregation.
Rather than simply teaching historical facts, the book introduces children to the values that shaped the community, including education, family, perseverance, entrepreneurship and civic pride. Through relatable storytelling, readers learn why preserving local history matters and how communities like Richmond Heights helped shape generations of Black families.
“It has been 13 years since my mother, Patricia Harper Garrett, and I published Images of America: Miami’s Richmond Heights,” said Modkins. “As our community continues to change, I felt an even greater responsibility to make sure our story reaches the next generation.”
“I wanted to create a book that children could enjoy while learning about where they come from,” she said. “History doesn’t have to feel distant or complicated. When children can see themselves reflected in these stories, they’re more likely to carry them forward.”
Modkins previously co-authored Images of America: Miami’s Richmond Heights with her mother, documenting the people, landmarks and history that helped define the community. This new children’s edition builds on that work by making Richmond Heights’ story accessible to young readers at an early age.
The book is ideal for families, classrooms, libraries, youth organizations and community groups looking to introduce children to local Black history through engaging, age-appropriate storytelling.
Miami’s Richmond Heights: Children’s Edition is available now on Amazon.
