Library

Octavia loved going to the library as a little girl and she discovered her love of horse stories and fairy tales at the Pasadena Library. The library represented unlimited freedom and exploration for her because she was not bound by her resources or race. Octavia began writing novels about horses as her first works.

Bookstore

Octavia’s first trip to the bookstore represented acceptance. She was able to buy books with her own money, and the clerk welcomed her in rather than casting her out for being Black. Reading and being immersed in literature created a safe space for Octavia throughout her childhood when she did not want to spend all of her time interacting with other children.

Stars

Stars symbolized the bright light of Octavia’s dreams to become a writer. Her middle name was “Estelle” meaning star and she was easily the most important part...