Crystel Patterson

Crystel Patterson: Award-Winning Author, Children's Book Creator, and Advocate for Diversity in Children's Literature

Crystel Patterson, based in Sacramento, CA, is the creator of the Inspired to Be... series—a collection of empowering children's books that amplify positive Black narratives and promote social-emotional learning and growth mindset. As a proud mother, Crystel writes diverse children's stories that inspire young readers with real-life examples of perseverance, achievement, and self-expression.

With a degree in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from UC Berkeley, Crystel’s journey to authorship is rooted in her passion for uplifting the next generation. Her work has been recognized in the media and honored with multiple awards for its impact on young readers and communities. Through her books, school programs, and community involvement, Crystel encourages children to embrace their uniqueness, dream big, and believe in their ability to make a difference.

To explore Crystel’s full book collection, bundles, and free classroom resources, visit her author site at crystelpatterson dot com.