“Before anyone finds out how high they can climb, Nell picks up a seed,” begins the cumulative tale of Austinite Anne Wynter’s award-winning picture book, nell plants a tree. In Wynter’s story, Nell nurtures a seed, a sprout, and a budding pecan tree that in time becomes a home, a refuge, and a place for exploration for generations to come. Dr. Rosalind “Roz” Oliphant nurtured a similar seed 19 years ago when she began planning the first Austin African American Book Festival. This year, the festival takes place on June 28 and features acclaimed authors and industry professionals like crime writer Walter Mosley, novelist and literary mentor Marita Golden, and Black Classic Press founder Paul Coates, among local authors including Wynter and LBJ School of Public Affairs professor Dr. Peniel Joseph. – Caroline Drew