Bright Before Us, Like a Flame is not only a greatest hits collection – alongside the pieces come writing prompts for aspiring young writers, fun behind-the-scenes details, and insightful conversations with some of Shout Mouse Press’ favorite authors. The book includes contributions from award-winning guest authors, including Safia Elhillo, Robin Ha, Candice Iloh, Tony Keith Jr., Nicole Lynn Lewis, José Olivarez, and Clint Smith.

This collection showcases some of the most powerful work by Shout Mouse Press youth authors over the past decade from across 60+ books – memoir, poetry, fiction, comics, and picture books. The pieces speak with heart and clarity about topics that shape lives at every stage: family, friendship, identity, justice, belonging, and more.