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Hi! Deb Gonzales here. I’m a children’s author, career educator, and marketing strategist who has spent years crafting resources that connect people with literature in meaningful ways. As the founder of Guides by Deb, I’ve created over 400+ standards-aligned educator guides for some of the finest books in the business. And as the founder of Pin Lit Marketing, I now help book creators harness the power of Pinterest to expand their reach and keep their books discoverable for years to come.

My expertise in education, curriculum development, and book marketing strategy makes me uniquely qualified to help authors, illustrators, and publishers boost book visibility—whether through standards-aligned guides or Pinterest strategy. With an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts, I understand the literary world from both the creative and business sides.

If you’re looking for high-quality, affordable, project-specific supplemental materials or a marketing strategy that keeps your books discoverable, let’s talk!

Stop by Deb's Author Website

Stop by Deb's Author Website

The Ashe Brothers: How Arthur and Johnnie Ashe Changed Tennis by Judy Allen Dodson

The Ashe Brothers: How Arthur and Johnnie Ashe Changed Tennis by Judy Allen Dodson

Debbie Gonzales
Picture Book, Text Set

Guides by Deb – Keeping your books in the hearts of young readers and in the hands of those who care for them.

The Ashe Brothers: How Arthur and Johnnie Ashe Changed Tennis by Judy Allen Dodson

Written by: Judy Allen Dodson
Illustrated by: David Wilkerson
Published by: Capstone Editions

Synopsis:

Step onto the court for a story of quiet strength and extraordinary sacrifice. How Arthur and Johnnie Ashe Changed Tennis reveals how two brothers—Arthur and Johnnie—rewrote history through courage, love, and determination. Long before Arthur became the first Black man to win three major tennis championships, his brother Johnnie stood behind the scenes, serving his country and sacrificing his own dreams so Arthur could pursue his.

This moving picture book celebrates brotherhood, equity, and perseverance both on and off the court. Through dynamic illustrations and heartfelt narration, Judy Allen Dodson honors the power of family and the unspoken acts of love that shape history—inviting readers to see that true champions rise together.

Key Teaching Value:

Encourages students to explore themes of integrity, equity, and resilience—connecting personal values with broader conversations about representation, access, and advocacy in sports and society. Ideal for integrating literacy, history, and social-emotional learning.

Educator Guide Content Summary:

This discussion and project guide helps students connect the story of Arthur and Johnnie Ashe to lessons in reading comprehension, writing, and character education. Learners examine how choices rooted in love and fairness influence both personal and societal change. Activities include analyzing primary sources on sports integration, journaling about perseverance, and comparing other Black trailblazers across the arts and athletics.

Aligned with CCSS and SEL standards, the guide promotes collaboration, empathy, and critical thinking—making it a strong resource for classrooms, libraries, and after-school enrichment programs.

CTA:

Discover more educator resources and guides at guidesbydeb.com and explore author marketing support at pinlitmarketing.com.

Author's Website
Text Set Guide
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