For Black History Month, we’re highlighting different aspects and corners of history that promote positivity and spark creativity. One of the most powerful ways to celebrate Black excellence is by investing in the next generation—equipping them with knowledge, confidence, and financial empowerment. That’s exactly what Caira’s Adventures sets out to do.

We got a chance to catch up with Corey A. Troupe, the visionary author behind Caira’s Adventures, a heartwarming and educational children’s book designed to teach kids the value of financial literacy. Through the adventures of Caira, a bright and determined young girl, this book introduces essential money management skills like earning, saving, and investing in a fun and engaging way. Caira’s Adventures isn’t just a story—it’s a movement to empower young minds with financial knowledge that lasts a lifetime.

Can you tell us about the beautifully illustrated brown girl, Caira?

Caira is my smart, energetic, and determined young daughter who loves spending time with her friends and family. She embodies curiosity and leadership, always looking for ways to solve problems and learn new things. In Caira's Adventures, she takes the lead in teaching her friends the importance of delayed gratification, making, saving, and investing money—lessons she learned from years of me teaching her financial literacy. Her character is meant to inspire children to see themselves as capable, resourceful, and financially empowered.

What inspired you to write a book specifically for kids?

As a parent and entrepreneur, I've seen firsthand how important financial literacy is, yet it's something most people don't learn until adulthood—sometimes the hard way. I wanted to create a fun and engaging way to introduce kids to money management, entrepreneurship, and investing at an early age. Teaching financial literacy early can set children up for a lifetime of success. Plus, I wanted to make sure my own kids, and children everywhere, have access to stories that reflect their experiences and encourage smart financial habits.

What key financial concepts did you want to ensure children understand?
The book introduces several essential financial principles:

Earning Money! Through the lemonade stand and lawn-cutting business, kids see that money comes from effort and creativity.      

Saving & Budgeting! The girls learn to divide their money wisely, setting aside funds for fun, investing, and future business supplies. 

Investing! Caira explains that investing money can help it grow over time, a key concept many adults struggle with. 

Delayed Gratification! Instead of spending all their earnings immediately, the girls make thoughtful choices, ensuring they have enough for later.

These principles lay the foundation for financial responsibility and long-term wealth building.

What are some common money myths or misconceptions that kids (or even parents) often have?

One major myth is that money is just for spending! Kids often think that as soon as they get money, they should buy something. This book helps introduce the idea that money can work for you if you save and invest it.

Another misconception is that kids are too young to learn about money. The truth is, kids are already interacting with money every day, whether it’s through allowances, birthday gifts, or seeing parents pay for things. The earlier they understand how money works, the better their financial future will be.

Many parents also believe that investing is "only for adults" or requires a lot of money. Caira’s Adventures simplifies the concept, showing kids (and their parents) that even small investments can grow over time.

Do you have any upcoming events, such as book meetups, author readings, or signings?

Yes! We’re planning book readings at local schools, libraries, and community centers. We’re also working on virtual readings and financial literacy workshops for kids and parents. Stay tuned for official dates and locations!

How can teachers incorporate financial literacy into the classroom using your book?

Teachers can use Caira’s Adventures to spark discussions on delayed gratification, teamwork, earning, saving, and investing. Here are a few ways to integrate it into the classroom:

Classroom Lemonade Stand Project – Have students create their own mini-business, calculating costs, profits, and savings.

Money Jars Activity – Teach students to divide their money into Save, Invest, and Spend categories, just like Caira and her friends.

Role-Playing Scenarios – Assign roles (entrepreneur, customer, investor) and have students act out financial decisions.

Math & Money Lessons – Use the book to teach basic math skills, like counting money, making change, and understanding percentages when investing.

Bringing financial literacy into the classroom through stories makes learning fun and practical!

Please feel free to share any additional insights about Caira's Adventures that you'd like to highlight.

This book is more than just a fun story! It's a movement to empower young minds with financial knowledge. Caira's Adventures is the first in a series of books aimed at helping kids understand much-needed financial conversations in a way that feels natural and exciting. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of financially savvy leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors.

We also want parents to engage in these conversations with their children, making financial literacy a family journey. By reading Caira's Adventures together, families can begin building healthy habits that last a lifetime.

This is just the beginning. Caira and her friends will be back for more adventures, teaching kids even more valuable lessons in fun and relatable ways. Stay tuned!

Where can readers find your book and follow your journey?

Caira’s Adventures is available on Amazon – search Caira’s Adventures in the Amazon store.
Follow on Social Media!

Author: @10Tru

Book Community: @CairasAdventures