Mr. Everett's inspiration to write Carved in Stone came while teaching middle school in the heart of Houston's Fifth Ward. Two of students were arguing during class and the final insult from one black 6th grader to the other was, "Well you're black!" While that statement ended the argument it begged the question, "Why do our children continue to perceive darker skin with disapproval?" Also, and more importantly, "What can adults do to break this cycle?" Carved in Stone is Mr. Everett's personal response to address the African-American child's sense of self-hatred. Specifically, he strives to improve our children's current self-image through an accurate historical knowledge of self - our story. Written for African American children, Carved in Stone also serves as a tool for parents, mentors and educators with a similar passion to break our insidious cycle of self-contempt.