Netflix to Launch ‘Bookmarks’ Video Series Aimed at Highlighting Books by Black Authors
Netflix is once again doing their part in highlighting Black creatives. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the streaming service has ordered “Bookmarks” a video series aimed at introducing young readers to Black writers. Hosted by Marley Dias, the 15-year-old founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks, the series will make debut on Netflix as well as the Netflix Jr. YouTube channel on Sept. 1.
“Bookmarks” will be comprised of 12, five-minute, live-action videos with stars such as Tiffany Haddish, Lupita Nyong’o, Marsai Martin, Caleb McLaughlin, Misty Copeland and many more. Additional book recommendations, resource guides and videos will also be found at NetflixBookmarks.com.
“This series creates a vehicle for children and families to begin to have conversations around concepts of racial identity and social justice through prolific Black voices. I’m excited to be part of a project that leverages the power of Black storytellers and provides an opportunity for children to see themselves and their communities on screen,” stated creative producer, Kevin A. Clark.
Netflix is also partnering with First Book to donate and distribute copies of each of the books featured in the collection to educators serving kids in need in the U.S. and internationally THR reports.
“Bookmarks” is the latest in Netflix’s efforts to highlight Black creatives. Recently, the streamer revealed they will bring some of the most beloved Black sitcoms onto their platform beginning in August. “Moesha” and “The Game” were the first shows to drop, launching on Aug. 1 and Aug. 15, respectively, while “Sister, Sister,” “Girlfriends,” “The Parkers,” “Half & Half” and “One on One” roll onto platform in the fall.
Back in June, the streamer launched 45-plus titles about racial injustice and features on Black Americans into a new Black Lives Matter collection.
Users in the U.S. have access to movies, documentaries and TV shows, which include a range of titles, from Michelle Obama’s “Becoming” to the Oscar-winning “Moonlight.” Also included in the collections are Netflix originals, “Dear White People,” “13th,” “Mudbound,” “When They See Us” and Spike Lee’s “Da 5 Bloods.”