Lil' Marco
and Friends!

About Us!

Lil' Marco
And Friends!

At Lil’ Marco and Friends, we believe every child deserves to see themselves as the hero of their own story. That belief is at the heart of everything we create—from joy-filled children’s books to literacy-focused products that celebrate Black culture, spark imagination, and build confidence in young readers.

Lil’ Marco and Friends was founded by award-winning author and illustrator Sharon Jones-Scaife, whose journey into children’s storytelling began during a season of personal loss and reflection. After losing her husband to lung cancer, Sharon turned to storytelling as a way to create comfort, connection, and meaningful moments for her family. Through that process, she recognized a deeper need—children, especially Black children, deserved stories where they could see themselves reflected with joy, dignity, and possibility.

What began as a personal mission quickly grew into a purpose-driven children’s brand rooted in representation, literacy, and community. The Lil’ Marco and Friends stories center Black children in everyday adventures—bedtime moments with family, discoveries at school, playful imagination, and shared experiences that reflect the richness of Black identity and the power of storytelling.

Through books, pop-ups, school visits, and community-based events, Lil’ Marco and Friends connects directly with families and educators, creating engaging experiences that go beyond the page. Our products are designed not only to be read, but to be felt—encouraging confidence, conversation, and connection wherever children learn and grow.

Today, Lil’ Marco and Friends is more than a book series—it’s a growing children’s literacy brand committed to helping children feel seen, inspired, and proud of who they are. One story at a time.


Impact Snapshot: Lil’ Marco and Friends connects with families, educators, and communities through school visits, pop-ups, and literacy events—creating joyful, affirming reading experiences that help children feel seen, confident, and inspired.