Can't Ant

by Ebony Mason, Junyi (April) Zhang (Illustrator)

30 pages, Hardcover

Published October 1, 2025

About the author

Ebony Mason (born March 18,1996, in West Islip, New York) is an author, poet and humanitarian. She is most known for her poem, “Sounds of a Hurricane” that was debuted and received wide spread recognition while being performed at Carnegie Hall in 2024. She has earned her bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies and minored in English at the prominent Clayton State University. At her time there, she has written countless essays and has attended the Naylor Workshop in York, Pennsylvania to hone her writing and research skills. Over the years, she has written poems and carefully curated them to compose of her first chapbook: The Colour Ebony in which she focuses on themes that “explore longing for love, being in love and so desperately trying to fall out of it,” as quoted by her. She has also published a children's book called "Can't Ant"

For more updates or to stay connected with Ebony Mason, follow her on social media:
X (fka Twitter) : @thecolourebony

Instagram: @thecolourebony

Reviews

[Bri Mendez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book for my little ones and absolutely loved the message behind the story. Growing up smaller, I experienced many of the same things Ant did. People often underestimated me or judged what I could do based on my size rather than my heart and determination.

Can’t Ant is a powerful reminder that our size doesn’t define our potential. It teaches children not to let other people’s opinions or expectations determine who they are or what they’re capable of. Instead, it encourages them to believe in themselves, persevere, and keep chasing their goals.

As someone who works with young athletes, this message really resonated with me. Every day I see kids who doubt themselves because of what others have said. This book is a beautiful reminder that confidence, resilience, and hard work matter far more than size.

A wonderful read with an empowering message for every child, parent, coach, and teacher. I highly recommend adding Can’t Ant to your family’s bookshelf.

[Eileen Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like and recommend ‘Can’t Ant’ book for you to get and read to or with your child because it’s encouraging!
This book lets your child, boy or girl see that you shouldn’t give up or act out if you don’t get your way because if it was meant to be things will work out in your favor. Just believe in your blessing, strength and keep your head up!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

is a motivating story about confidence and perseverance.

[Jason Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful and inspiring read. I recommend this book to all parents raising children with a goal of developing literacy while inspiring their children to achieve.

[Tina Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s an everyday read for all kids 🥹 high recommend 🏀

[Stacee Brown-Sidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read for our youth. So inspirational