About
About Shelly’s Adventures®
Shelly’s Adventures is an inclusive literacy and American Sign Language education company helping children read, communicate, and connect.
Through original books, interactive school programs, ASL learning, educator resources, and sponsor-funded initiatives, we help bridge the gap between Deaf and hearing communities. Our mission is simple: Read. Sign. Connect.
Our Story
Shelly’s Adventures was founded by children’s author and educator Kentrell Martin, inspired by growing up with his Deaf brother. Kentrell saw the power of American Sign Language to connect people—and the barriers created when children and adults have little exposure to ASL or Deaf culture.
What began as a children’s book series has grown into a national educational company built around literacy, communication, inclusion, and memorable learning experiences.
Our Impact
- 1,300+ schools reached
- 20+ U.S. states and three countries served
- 130–150 schools visited in a typical year
- 60–90 signs introduced during many school experiences
- 100+ five-star Google reviews
What Makes Shelly’s Adventures Different
We combine children’s stories, proprietary characters, hands-on ASL learning, live student engagement, and inclusive educational content in one connected system. Every book introduces ASL vocabulary, and each program gives children an opportunity to learn through reading, movement, participation, and visual communication.
How We Help Schools and Communities
- The Shelly’s Adventures Experience: Interactive literacy and ASL programming for schools, libraries, early-learning centers, and community organizations.
- Inclusive Literacy & ASL Programs: Multi-school residencies, family engagement, ASL clubs, educator professional learning, classroom resources, and district pilot programs.
- National Literacy Initiative: Sponsor-funded school programs designed to expand access regardless of an individual school’s budget.
- Books and learning resources: Original stories and educational materials that help children continue reading and practicing signs at school and at home.
Our Scalable Partnership Model
District identifies the educational need → Shelly’s Adventures provides the program → Corporate sponsor finances implementation.
Schools and districts identify priorities and participating sites. Shelly’s Adventures designs and delivers the literacy, ASL, and Deaf-awareness programming. Corporate and community sponsors can underwrite implementation, making fully sponsored programs available at no cost to participating schools or students.
Building the Next Chapter
We are expanding beyond founder-led visits by developing structured curriculum, educator professional learning, ASL club resources, classroom materials, digital learning tools, and a trained program-delivery team.
Expanded curriculum, professional-development, licensing, and digital offerings are in development. Scope and availability are confirmed with each pilot or implementation partner.
Work With Us
Explore school and district programs · Build a strategic partnership · Sponsor student experiences · Schedule a school visit