Overview

What does it take to build a legacy that transforms generations? Meet Kermit B. Hill- a woman with an unforgettable name and an even more remarkable story. Rising from the segregated South, she shattered barriers of race and gender to carve an unexpected path that changed her community forever. From guarding wartime secrets at the Pentagon to implementing a revolutionary, culturally affirming approach to early childhood education, Kermit's life was defined by resilience, vision, and service. The book's vivid storytelling delves into Kermit's early days-her struggle with the stress of her husband serving overseas, the wartime career opportunities she seized as an African American woman, and the joy she found blowing off steam dancing the Lindy Hop at local juke joints. Recognizing a crucial need at the dawn of the baby boom era, what began as a simple idea blossomed into the Tiny Tot Nursery School of St. Louis, Inc.- an innovative institution decades ahead of its time. As an African American woman entrepreneur operating before the Civil Rights and Women's Movements, Kermit created something extraordinary: a place where African American children could discover their potential and build confidence that would last a lifetime. Told by her daughter, Francene Mary Diane Hill, who grew up immersed in the school's daily life, Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos: The Life, Love, and Business Success of Kermit B. Hill brings her mother's authentic voice to life. Through intimate letters, rare photographs, newspaper clippings, and carefully preserved archives, the narrative weaves together Kermit's actual words, private thoughts, and vivid memories to create an immersive reading experience. This creative biography reveals the untold story of a woman whose influence reached far beyond what anyone imagined possible. Perfect for readers who appreciate stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and family legacy, this book celebrates the power of vision, determination, and love to create lasting change. If you were moved by Hidden Figures or inspired by Michelle Obama's Becoming or Sheila Johnson's Walk Through Fire, prepare to discover a story that will stay with you long after the final page. Some legacies are too powerful to remain hidden. Scroll up and grab your copy today to discover the unforgettable legacy of Kermit B. Hill.

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Reviews

Your descriptions of objects enhance the narrative. I am able to see the setting, as well as the characters, and can intuit the feelings among the characters. - Linda Moore, Reaching for Resilience Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos offers a captivating portrait of Kermit B. Hill, an African American pioneer whose post-World War II journey blends public service, resilience, and entrepreneurial determination. Through her daughter, her path from probation officer to Pentagon insider to celebrated nursery-school founder is told with warmth and inspiring clarity. -- W.T.Door I find your ways of expression and narration exceedingly personal, warm and even intimate. Still you are excellent with the little, finer things in life that take place between people. - William Y.Your story Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos captured me from the very beginning. What stood out most was how you turned everyday family life into something so vivid and memorable. I loved the detail of Kermit juggling her baby, husband, and housework while still dreaming about a piano; it showed both her determination and her humanity. - Amy Chan Zhou, author of Flowing with the Pearl River

Author Information

Francene Mary Diane Hill grew up surrounded by the energy and purpose of the Tiny Tot Nursery School, founded by her mother, Kermit Hill, in 1951. Over the decades, Francene worked in every role at Tiny Tot-from teacher's assistant to bus driver-before serving as Board Member and Assistant Director. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Smith College and an M.S. in Human and Family Studies from Penn State University.Her passion for storytelling has taken her to open mics, book readings, and book festivals, including The Moth StorySLAM in Washington, DC. She has been featured in Sisters of AARP Magazine, the St. Louis Public Library's Digital Collection, and on multiple stages sharing her mother's inspiring legacy. Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos is her tribute to Kermit's groundbreaking achievements and enduring community impact.

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