“The exposure to having images that look like you, that reflect the range of Americans is is powerful,” Combs said. “It cannot be underestimated.”

Parker Curry, the little girl who stood in awe of Amy Sheralds portrait of Michelle Obama at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery last year, has now written a book about her experience. Parker and her mom, Jessica Curry, collaborated on the childrens book titled Parker Looks Up, which came out Oct. 15. The 4-year-old received widespread attention for the photo and even met Michelle Obama afterward. Curry said the book is not only a great memory for Parker but also an encouragement to other children. While Parker came up with the plot for the book, Curry said she helped a bit along the way.