Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos | Book Events
Join Author Francene Mary Diane Hill
Join author Francene Mary Diane Hill for an engaging presentation of her new book, Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos: The Life, Love, and Business Success of Kermit B. Hill -- a creative biography of her mother with an unforgettable name and remarkable story.
From guarding wartime secrets at the Pentagon to founding the Tiny Tot Nursery School, Kermit empowered generations of children through education and performance
📚Bring your copy or grab one at any of these book launch events - and don't miss your chance to meet the author in person!
Kirkus Reviews calls the book "an accessible, valuable addition to the histories of Black businesswomen in America."
Meet Me in St. Louis - Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos Book
April 30 , 2026, 6-7 pm - Subterranean Books
RSVP Now for Author Talk at Subterranean Books
6271 Delmar Blvd., University City, MO 63130
- Author Talk: Francene M. D. Hill will share how she transformed genealogy records, news clippings, and love letters into a vivid narrative.
- Tiny Tot Family: Former Tiny Tot students and families are invited to attend as special guests of the author, Francene M. D. Hill.
May 2, 2026, 12-2 pm - Barnes & Noble
RSVP Now for Author Signing at Barnes & Noble Bookstore
8871 Ladue Road, St. Louis, MO 63124
- Author Signing: Meet Francene M. D. Hill, discuss her new book, and have it signed by the author.
- Tiny Tot Family: Former Tiny Tot students and families are invited to attend as special guests of the author, Francene M. D. Hill.
May 2, 2026, 3 - 4:30 pm - Central Library
RSVP Now for Tiny Tot Presentation at Central Library
Carnegie Room, 3rd Floor
St. Louis Public Library, 1301 Olive St, St Louis, MO, 63103
- This special event celebrates Tiny Tot's alumni, teachers, family, and friends -invited as honored guests of the author. Attendees are encouraged to reconnect, share cherished memories, and discuss the lasting impact of Tiny Tot School on their lives.
The event will feature:
- Welcome and Introduction of Tiny Tot Family: Former Tiny Tot students, teachers, families, and friends are invited to share memories and photos.
- Author Presentation: A multimedia presentation featuring rare archival materials and readings from the book, Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos: The Life, Love, and Business Success of Kermit B. Hill.
- Book Sales and Signing: Meet the author and have your copy signed.
St. Louis Argus Article - Published April 3, 2026
Tiny Tot Legacy Reclaimed: Book Tour and Reunion Honor a St. Louis Pioneer
St. Louis Argus Article - Published April 3, 2026
ST. LOUIS — A defining chapter of Black St. Louis history is stepping back into the spotlight. More than seven decades after a small notice appeared in the St. Louis Argus announcing the opening of The Tiny Tot Day Nursery, the legacy of its founder, Kermit B. Hill, is being revived through a new book and community celebration.
The “Meet Me in St. Louis” Book Tour marks the release of Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos: The Life, Love, and Business Success of Kermit B. Hill, a biography that captures the remarkable journey of a woman whose life bridged wartime service and community transformation. The tour not only introduces readers to Hill’s story but reconnects generations shaped by her vision.
Before becoming a cornerstone of early childhood education in St. Louis, Hill served at the Pentagon during World War II, entrusted with safeguarding sensitive information at a time when opportunities for Black women in such roles were rare. Her transition from federal service to entrepreneurship would prove equally impactful. In 1951, she founded the Tiny Tot Nursery School, creating a space where Black children were nurtured, educated, and prepared for leadership.
For six decades, Tiny Tot stood as more than a school—it was an institution. Families entrusted their children to a model built on discipline, pride, and excellence. Hill’s work not only filled a gap in early education but established a standard rooted in community empowerment.
Her contributions did not go unnoticed. In 1966, she was honored by the St. Louis Argus with its Distinguished Public Service Award, cementing her role as a trailblazer in both business and service.
Now, that legacy comes full circle. The book tour will culminate in a Tiny Tot Tribute and Alumni Reunion on May 2 at the St. Louis Central Library, bringing together former students, families, and community members whose lives were shaped by Hill’s work.
More than a celebration, the event is a reminder of the institutions that quietly built generations. In revisiting the story of Tiny Tot, St. Louis is not just honoring the past—it is reclaiming a blueprint for community-centered success that still resonates today.