Facing the Rising Sun: Activity Book By Dr. Lathardus Goggins II "I rise. I reflect. I remember. I become." Facing the Rising Sun: Activity Book is a culturally grounded, youth-centered resource that nurtures self-awareness, cultural identity, and purpose through reflection, creativity, and discovery. Rooted in African-centered philosophy and supported by a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) framework, this book guides youth on a transformative journey through the principles of the Nguzo Saba—Unity (Umoja), Self-Determination (Kujichagulia), Collective Work and Responsibility (Ujima), Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa), Purpose (Nia), Creativity (Kuumba), and Faith (Imani). The core of the book features 49 engaging lessons—seven for each principle—designed to spark meaningful dialogue, encourage deep self-reflection, and build cultural pride and resilience. Each lesson is paired with elements from the SEL Wheel, reinforcing personal and social-emotional growth. Additional activities—including word searches, coloring pages, and crossword puzzles—enhance learning through play, symbolism, and artistic expression, making this resource accessible and enriching for a variety of learning settings. Whether used in classrooms, mentoring circles, faith-based youth programs, or African-centered rites of passage, Facing the Rising Sun empowers young people to rise with purpose, belong to a heritage of excellence, and shine with authenticity. Through each page, young people are supported in developing a grounded sense of self, connection, and purpose.

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Kwanzaa, MLK, Jr., and Black Month - SPECIAL PRICE - $19.95 (until February 28, 2026).

Facing the Rising Sun: Activity Book

Goggins II, Lathardus

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Endorsements and Reviews

As an educator, school counselor, and scholar of racial equity and microaggressions in educational spaces, I have witnessed the profound impact of culturally affirming pedagogy. I know intimately how our children struggle to find themselves in curricula that do not reflect their stories, their brilliance, or their ancestry. That is why this activity book, rooted in the transformational philosophy of Bringing the Light into a New Day: African-centered Rites of Passage, is nothing short of revolutionary. Whether used in a school, rites of passage program, or within the sacred space of home, this book challenges us—educators, mentors, parents—to co-create environments where children do not merely survive but thrive. It is both a mirror and a map, reflecting the light within and illuminating the path forward. Let this book be embraced not just as an educational tool, but as a cultural imperative. It is a call to remember, to reclaim, and to rise.
— Nena S. Hisle, Ph.D.
Middle School Counselor
Racial Equity Facilitator
CEO of Eye on Equity Consulting, LLC

Success starts with preparation, with vision, and with knowing your purpose. Dr. Goggins has created something that speaks directly to our young people—challenging them to think about who they are, where they are headed, and how their choices shape tomorrow. Facing the Rising Sun isn’t just an activity book—it’s a roadmap that reminds youth their voice matters, their culture is powerful, and their future is in their hands. What makes this book stand out is how real and digestible it is. It connects the lessons of Black and African-American history to the everyday realities of our youth, making the past feel alive and relevant right now. It gives young people tools to set goals, take pride in their identity, and step boldly into leadership. This is more than a guide—it’s an invitation to excellence.
— Richard Gibson
Executive Director, Students With A Goal (SWAG)

Facing the Rising Sun: Activity Book is a resource that embodies what we at Soaring As Eagles strive for each day—equipping young people to soar above life’s challenges with confidence, resilience, and vision. By grounding youth in cultural principles and affirming their inherent worth, this book helps transform potential into leadership and leadership into lasting community impact. Dr. Goggins has created a tool that speaks directly to that mission. Facing the Rising Sun gives young people the structure, encouragement, and cultural grounding to discover who they are and why they matter.
— Vanessa Kim Ceasar
Executive Director, Soaring As Eagles

Facing the Rising Sun: Activity Book is not just a collection of activities—it is a roadmap for cultural grounding and self-discovery. With forty-nine lessons rooted in the Nguzo Saba, the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, Dr. Lathardus Goggins II offers a powerful resource for nurturing identity, resilience, and purpose in African youth. Each activity strengthens bonds across generations, affirms the beauty of African heritage, and equips the next generation to rise with confidence, vision, and faith. Facing the Rising Sun shines as a cultural imperative—helping our youth to Sankofa and grow into their true selves.
— Kofi Charles Taylor
Book Reviewer, Black Star Society

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BRINGING THE LIGHT INTO A NEW DAY COLLECTION BUNDLE (Click Here) and other titles by Dr. Lathardus Goggins II

For more infromation on African-centered rites of passage: